A Guide to the Best Engineered Hardwood Plank Width for Small Rooms

Finding the best engineered hardwood plank width for small rooms can feel overwhelming. So many choices, so many opinions – you just want a space that looks great.

But fear not, because the perfect floor is closer than you think. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make a confident decision.

You’ll learn about the different plank widths available and how they can totally transform the look and feel of a smaller room. Yes, we’re talking about those amazing illusions that make your space feel bigger than it is.

And that’s not even the best part. Choosing the best engineered hardwood plank width for small rooms isn’t about following strict rules. It’s about understanding the principles of design and applying them to *your* unique style.

Wide Planks: A Bold Statement (Proceed with Caution)

Now, let’s talk about wide plank hardwood flooring. This style exudes a luxurious, modern vibe and can really elevate a room’s character.

Wide planks give the impression of fewer seams, which some people find really appealing. However, there’s a catch, especially in smaller spaces.

While wide plank floors are stunning, using them in smaller rooms can actually make the room feel smaller, almost claustrophobic. Avoid a flooring trend that won’t stand the test of time and learn about other flooring options that are better suited for small spaces.

Consider these expert suggestions:

• For a Classic, Airy Look: Narrow planks between 2 to 3 inches will stand the test of time.
• To Maximize Openness: In smaller spaces that crave a more expansive feel, wider planks up to 5 inches can work well, as long as you’re thoughtful about furniture and décor to avoid a crowded look.

Pulling it All Together: A Winning Strategy

Let’s look at an example to solidify what you’ve learned.

Imagine you have a small, rectangular living room, naturally lit by one large window. You are deciding on new hardwood flooring and wondering what width hardwood floor will work best in the space.

You really like the look of chevron patterns but aren’t sure if that’s the right choice.

• Maximize space and light: Since the room is rectangular, installing planks lengthwise would accentuate the room’s length, creating a sense of depth. This is an example of how the size of the room plays into the overall design of your flooring project.

  Lighter shades of wood, such as oak in a natural finish, will further enhance the brightness and airiness of the space. This is a classic example of choosing engineered wood flooring that will stand the test of time.

• Add Dimension: While using narrower planks in this scenario would create an airy feel, you can absolutely use wider planks in a small rectangular room to create the illusion of width.

  If you do decide to use wider planks in this instance, ensure they don’t exceed 5 inches in width to avoid a cramped look.

  To add a touch of visual interest, you could even consider a narrow hardwood floor in a chevron pattern. This will trick your eye into seeing more dimension and depth in your space.

Remember, those are just examples to show how thoughtful selection, considering layout and light, can dramatically influence how big or small a room feels, regardless of its actual size.

This principle applies to all spaces in your house, not just the living room. Choosing the right hardwood flooring width for small rooms will elevate the entire look of your home.