Standing in a bare room, visualizing the finished space, is a thrilling part of home renovation. But the excitement can quickly turn to confusion when faced with the direction of your wood flooring. Up and down? Left to right? Is it even a big deal? It turns out, the way you choose to run your wood planks can drastically alter the look and feel of a room, even affecting its perceived size. Let’s dive into the art of flooring orientation and discover the strategies that will make your floors look their best.
Image: dragon-upd.com
Whether you’re working with hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate, the fundamentals of laying direction remain the same. The way you choose to run your planks can alter the visual perception of space. This is especially significant if you are working with a small or narrow room. By cleverly positioning your planks, you can create the illusion of a larger, more open space.
The Importance of Flooring Direction
The direction you choose to run your wood flooring can have a profound impact on the overall aesthetic and functionality of your space. Beyond simply adding visual interest, strategically choosing the orientation of floorboards can create a sense of flow, visually enhance features like fireplaces or windows, and even subtly alter the perceived size and shape of the room.
Common Flooring Orientations
1. Parallel to the Longest Wall
This classic approach is favoured for its ability to add length and openness to a room. Running planks parallel to the longest wall visually expands the space, making it seem larger than it actually is. It is an excellent choice for rooms where you want to create a sense of flow and continuity.
Image: 50floor.com
2. Perpendicular to the Longest Wall
This orientation draws the eye towards the length of the room and is a fantastic choice for creating a sense of drama. It is also well-suited for spaces where emphasizing the room’s width is desired, for instance, in hallway areas or rooms with smaller features to highlight.
3. Diagonal Lay
This unconventional option adds a touch of boldness and modern flair to a space. Laying planks at a forty-five-degree angle adds depth and visual interest, working well in rooms with interesting architectural features, such as fireplaces or arched doorways.
4. Herringbone Pattern
A herringbone pattern consists of planks laid at 90-degree angles, resembling a “V” shape. This pattern is visually captivating and adds undeniable style and sophistication to any space. It works particularly well in compact rooms.
Tips for Choosing the Right Flooring Direction
1. Consider the Shape of the Room
When deciding on the direction, start by considering the overall shape of the room. In a rectangle, laying your planks parallel to the longest wall will maximize the sense of space, whereas running planks across the width in a long, narrow hallway can make the space feel far larger.
2. Consider the Existing Features
Think about the existing features of the room, such as fireplaces, windows, or beams, and how they may be enhanced or disrupted by the flow of the flooring. For example, running planks towards a fireplace can draw the eye to its prominence, while running the planks in a contrasting direction may be a better choice for emphasizing a window or other notable feature.
3. Work With The Existing Lighting
Natural light and artificial light can interact with the direction of your wood planks to create different effects. Consider how light will fall on the floor in your space. Running planks perpendicular to a window can create a dramatic, light-filled effect, whilst running them parallel may create softer, more subtle reflections.
FAQ
Q: Do doors and windows affect the direction of wood flooring?
A: Yes, it is best to maintain consistent flooring direction throughout the room. If possible, consider running wood planks parallel to the longest wall or doorway. This creates visual flow and unity between the space and the entry/exit points.
Q: Can I change direction in the middle of a room?
A: While technically possible, it is generally not recommended as it can create visual disruptions. Try to pick one direction that works best for the space and stick with it for consistency.
Q: How do I choose the best flooring direction for my oddly shaped room?
A: If you have an oddly shaped room, it’s wise to consult a professional installer. They can help you determine the best orientation to create a well-balanced and visually appealing outcome.
How To Determine Which Way To Run Wood Flooring
Conclusion
Choosing the right direction for your wood flooring is an important decision that will have a major impact on the overall look and feel of your space. By understanding the principles of flooring orientation and considering your room’s unique features, you can create a stunning and sophisticated space. Are you now inspired to create stunning spaces with wood flooring direction?
