Flooring Trends 2026

After several years of herringbone’s dominance, 2026 is set to welcome a fresh wave of flooring styles that celebrate natural beauty, texture and warmth. Homeowners are moving towards wide plank boards, characterful finishes and warm, natural tones that create depth and comfort to modern interiors, says Adam.

Wide Planks Make a Welcome Return

"It's been herringbone, herringbone and more herringbone for the last few years, so it's refreshing to see wide boards coming back," says Adam. "Wide planks create a sense of space and flow that feels less busy and more calming. They have fewer joins across the floor, which gives rooms a cleaner, more sophisticated look. This simplicity is really resonating with people who want their homes to feel restful and uncluttered."

Warm, Natural Tones Take Centre Stage

The shift towards warmer colour palettes is one of the defining trends for 2026. Adam notes, "We're starting to see a growing demand for natural tones, from warm mid-browns through to deep, rich browns. These shades bring a sense of comfort that people are craving in their homes right now."

One of the most popular looks for 2026 is predicted to be natural mid-tone oaks with a subtle, modern twist. Rather than the traditional yellow or golden finishes, these woods feature warmer browns and gentle grey-browns, offering a more contemporary feel.

"These tones feel modern and sophisticated without being too stark or cold," Adam explains. "They add warmth and character while still maintaining that clean, modern look that buyers are drawn to." Among Urbane Living's bestsellers are Ritz Oak, Peninsula Oak and Caledonian Oak, each striking the perfect balance between natural beauty and modern design. Their gentle variation and texture add interest without overpowering a room, making them ideal for a range of styles.

"These floors are incredibly versatile," adds Adam. "They work beautifully in Scandi-inspired homes but also sit comfortably in more traditional spaces. They help create that balance between timelessness and contemporary style."

Texture and Character Come to the Fore

Beyond colour, texture is playing an increasingly important role in flooring choices. Brushed, hand-scraped and wire-brushed finishes are gaining traction as homeowners seek floors that feel tactile and authentic rather than overly polished.

"People want floors that look and feel real," Adam notes. "Textured finishes add depth and shadow, catching the light differently throughout the day. They also hide everyday wear and tear better than smooth finishes, which is a practical bonus for busy households.”

Visible grain patterns, natural knots and slight colour variation are no longer seen as imperfections but as desirable features that add personality and charm. This shift reflects a broader movement away from perfection and towards celebrating the organic beauty of natural materials.

Satin Sheen and Natural Finishes Replace High Gloss

The era of high gloss, mirror like finishes is firmly behind us. For 2026, satin sheen lacquers and natural oil finishes are becoming the preferred choice. They offer an understated elegance that feels more authentic and far less processed.

“Although matt finishes remain popular, more customers are choosing a satin sheen. It offers greater durability against scuff marks and also enhances the depth of colour in the timber.” says Adam. “The grain becomes more defined and the floor takes on a richer, more characterful appearance. For the most refined finish, a beeswax polish creates a beautiful lustre. Beeswax does require occasional maintenance with simple polishing, but the surface improves over time and develops a beautiful warmth.”

Sustainability Remains a Priority

Sustainability continues to be a driving factor in purchasing decisions. Engineered timber flooring, which uses less solid wood than traditional boards, remains a responsible and popular choice.

"Consumers are more informed than ever about where their materials come from," Adam says. "They want beautiful, durable floors, but they also want to know they're making environmentally conscious choices. Engineered flooring ticks both boxes, offering longevity, style and peace of mind."

What's Fading for 2026

As new trends emerge, some styles are starting to wane. While texture remains key, it must feel natural. Similarly, very pale, washed-out greys are being replaced by warmer, more inviting tones. "The ultra-grey Scandinavian look has had its moment," Adam reflects. "Now, people are gravitating towards warmth and cosiness. They want their homes to feel nurturing and welcoming, and flooring plays a huge role in achieving that atmosphere."