Exploring Flooring Options for Your Living Room

The living room. For some, it’s a gathering place where the family unwinds at the end of the day. Maybe it’s where you watch TV, play games, or curl up with a book. Or, maybe it’s used only on special occasions. It can function as a playroom, TV room, or study. It could be a social hub where you host parties, or that room that’s there, but no one ever really goes in. Every home is different, and every living room is different. The type of flooring you choose for this room should really be dictated by how you use the space.

If you’re searching for new floors for your living room, here are some great options to consider.

Carpet

If your living room functions as more of a family room – a place where your gang gathers to play board games, watch movies, build pillow forts, or lounge with a good book, carpet is a good choice. A soft surface is more inviting and comfortable if your family and friends are going to be sitting, standing, or laying around in the room. Just be sure to vacuum frequently, and have the carpet professionally cleaned at least once a year.

Cork

If you want a comfy living room floor but aren’t sold on carpet, consider cork flooring. Springy and resilient, cork is probably the “softest” hard flooring option out there. It’s a great choice for living rooms where you or your family will be spending a lot of time up and about, and its resilience makes it a safe place to land if you have little ones who are taking their first steps – and spills! Eco-conscious families will also love its green bona fides – cork is a renewable resource that’s harvested without harming the tree.

Hardwood

Wood flooring is a great choice for more formal living rooms. If the room is used for special occasions, a hardwood floor is going to offer a beautiful, classic vibe. With a variety of visuals, you’re sure to find a hardwood option that complements your decorating style. A rich brown walnut would look great in an Art Deco-inspired space, while a light-toned maple would complement mid-century modern design.

Laminate

Is your living room more of a thoroughfare? If this is a high-traffic space where people are constantly passing through, laminate flooring might be the right choice. Laminate will offer the classic and beautiful look of hardwood, but won’t be in danger of scuffing, scratching, or denting during a New Year’s Eve soiree or your kid’s birthday party.

Vinyl

Another great choice for living rooms that see a lot of activity, vinyl flooring is a durable alternative to hardwood that has just as much style. With a variety of visual options, vinyl flooring is a great choice for active families, especially families with pets. It also tends to have a bit more give than laminate, so it might be a bit comfier for things like game or movie nights. You can also soften things up by adding an area rug.