There’s a reason why the phrase “luxury underfoot” resonates with those seeking an interior upgrade. The type of flooring you choose for your living space speaks volumes about your taste and lifestyle. Among the myriad options, one stands out for its exceptional beauty and versatility—long wood flooring. This comprehensive guide delves into the aesthetic and functional advantages of opting for long wood flooring, explores the various types of wood that are available in this format, and offers some clever design tips for integrating this flooring option into your décor seamlessly.
What’s The Appeal of Long Wood Flooring
Long wood flooring offers a luxurious and expansive aesthetic that is highly sought after in both residential and commercial settings. Unlike standard-length boards, long wood boards typically range from 1900mm to 2400mm, significantly impacting the visual spaciousness and fluidity of a room. This extended length works exceptionally well in larger spaces, accentuating the grandeur and drawing the eye along the natural grain of the wood. The aesthetic appeal is complemented by a perception of higher quality, giving any room a premium touch.
One of the key benefits of long wood flooring is its ability to deliver a seamless look. With fewer seams compared to shorter boards, you get an uninterrupted flow of the grain, which can make a room look bigger and more cohesive. This is particularly beneficial in open-plan homes or commercial spaces like hotels and restaurants, where the objective is to create an environment that feels both expansive and welcoming.
When it comes to installation, long wood boards can be more challenging to work with than their shorter counterparts. Given their length, it’s essential to ensure that the subfloor is perfectly level to prevent any bowing or cupping over time. The added weight of the boards also requires meticulous planning and possibly extra hands for effective installation. Some prefer a floating installation method for long wood boards, but the traditional method of nailing or gluing the boards to the subfloor remains a viable option, depending on the specific circumstances.
Despite the challenges, the visual benefits often outweigh the installation complexities for many homeowners and designers. Common species used for long wood flooring include oak, maple, and hickory, each offering its unique characteristics in terms of colour, grain, and durability. These long boards can be stained, varnished, or oil-finished to enhance their natural beauty or to match existing interiors.
What’s Your Wood Flooring Options
Various types of wood flooring are available in long format, each with its unique characteristics that cater to different tastes and requirements. Here are some popular options:
Oak
Oak is a popular and timeless choice and is widely available in long formats. Its natural grain structure offers a classic look and is often preferred for its durability and versatility. You can find both red oak and white oak in extended lengths.
Maple
Maple is another popular option for long wood flooring, known for its smooth finish and subtle grain patterns. It is exceptionally hard and durable, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
Hickory
Hickory is one of the hardest domestic woods available and is highly durable. The grain is more pronounced than in oak or maple, providing a rustic, textured appearance, which stands out remarkably in longer board lengths.
Walnut
Walnut offers a darker colour palette with rich brown tones. The elegant and distinct grain pattern becomes more visually appealing in long format, although it’s generally softer than oak, maple, or hickory.
Acacia
Acacia is an exotic wood type that is increasingly becoming popular in long formats. Known for its vibrant grain patterns and varying shades, Acacia offers a unique and eye-catching flooring option.
Bamboo
Though technically a grass, bamboo flooring can be found in extended lengths and offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwoods. It’s admired for its unique patterns and exceptional hardness when strand-woven.
Engineered Wood
For those who want the look of wood with additional stability, engineered wood is available in long formats as well. Comprising a hardwood veneer atop a plywood base, engineered wood is less susceptible to warping and can be ideal for areas prone to moisture.
Reclaimed Wood
For those interested in an eco-friendly and unique aesthetic, reclaimed wood is also available in long board lengths. Each board offers a piece of history and a unique, weathered appearance that can’t be replicated.
Using Long Wood Flooring For Optimal Results
Incorporating long wood flooring into your décor isn’t just a functional choice; it’s an aesthetic statement that can serve as the foundation for your interior design vision. Here are some clever ways to make the most out of your long wood flooring:
Extend the Visual Line
Long wood boards naturally guide the eye along their length. Place furniture or other décor elements in line with the wood grain to create a visual pathway through the room. This is particularly effective in elongated spaces, helping to draw the eye and make the room feel even more spacious.
Colour Coordination
The colour of long wood flooring can serve as the basis for your room’s colour palette. Whether your boards are a warm chestnut or a cool ash grey, you can coordinate your upholstery, wall colour, and even artwork to complement and enhance the floor’s natural hues.
Contrasting Rugs
Place strategically chosen rugs over your long wood floors. The juxtaposition of textures adds visual interest and can help to delineate specific areas or functions within a larger space, like a dining area within an open-plan living room.
Minimalist Approach
The beauty of long wood flooring is often best showcased when the rest of the décor is simple and understated. A minimalist approach allows the eye to focus on the floor’s detailing, appreciating the natural grain and quality of the wood.
Accentuate with Lighting
Use lighting to highlight the unique aspects of your long wood flooring. Spotlights or floor lamps that cast light across the grain can accentuate the texture and colour variations in the wood, adding another layer of sophistication.
Eclectic Charm
For a more eclectic look, don’t shy away from mixing different styles and eras. The timeless appeal of long wood flooring serves as a unifying element that can tie together various furnishings and décor items.
Luxury Details
Finally, consider using architectural elements like baseboards, wainscoting, or crown moulding that echo the premium look and feel of your long wood floors. These elements can work in harmony to create an atmosphere of understated luxury.
By cleverly incorporating long wood flooring into your décor, you can not only elevate the overall design but also create a cohesive, visually pleasing space that reflects your personal style.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Space with Long Wood Flooring
As we’ve explored, long wood flooring offers an unrivalled blend of beauty, durability, and elegance that can elevate any space. From the way it accentuates the visual line and adds spaciousness, to the endless options in wood types, and even the clever decor ideas to complement this luxurious choice—long wood flooring is truly in a class of its own. Whether you’re refurbishing your existing home or designing a new one, make a lasting statement of style and sophistication with long wood flooring. It’s more than just a surface to walk on; it’s the foundation of your interior aesthetic.
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FAQ
What Makes Long Wood Flooring a Luxurious Choice?
Long wood flooring offers a premium touch to any room, providing both aesthetic and functional advantages. Unlike standard-length boards, long wood boards range between 1900mm and 2400mm, creating a perception of spaciousness and higher quality.
Are There Any Practical Benefits to Using Long Wood Flooring?
Yes, long wood flooring can make a room look more cohesive and larger due to fewer seams in the boards. This feature is especially beneficial in open-plan homes and commercial spaces, where an expansive and welcoming environment is desired.
What Are the Challenges of Installing Long Wood Flooring?
Installation can be more complex for long wood flooring. Because of their length, it’s crucial to have a level subfloor to prevent any warping over time. The added weight may also require extra help for effective installation.
What Types of Wood Are Commonly Used for Long Flooring?
Popular wood types for long wood flooring include oak, maple, and hickory. Each of these species has unique attributes in terms of colour, grain, and durability. Other options like walnut and acacia are also available for those looking for something different.
How Can I Complement My Décor with Long Wood Flooring?
There are various ways to integrate long wood flooring into your décor. You can extend the visual line by placing furniture in line with the wood grain, coordinate the room’s colour palette based on the floor’s colour, or even use contrasting rugs to delineate spaces.