When turning a living room into an open-concept space, the flooring will affect the look, feel, and functionality of your new expansion. Whether you choose carpet, laminate, tile, or a hardwood floor, the material underfoot anchors and supports the entire layout. To help find the best flooring for your open-concept floor plan, bear these three tips in mind.

How to Choose Flooring for an Open-Concept Design

1. Stick With One Type

The primary goal of an open-concept layout is to increase the sense of flow and cohesion between various rooms. Installing different kinds of floors in different zones will create barriers, not minimize or eliminate them. The walls delineating rooms may be gone, but the floors would visually restore them. More than one type of floor results in a choppy appearance that undercuts the fluidity of an open design.

2. Consider the Decor

Evaluate the decor in each area, zeroing in on those features that draw the eye and dominate the space. Consider the paint colors on the walls, the style of furniture, artwork, and any decorative schemes. Choose flooring that complements and enhances these features.

Hardwood floors, for example, add a warm sheen to traditional design elements. Ceramic tiles are ideal for light-hued spaces with plenty of windows. Natural stone offers a sleek sophistication to contemporary homes.

3. Functionality Is Crucial

Also, consider the needs of your household when choosing flooring. If you have young children, a floor that's easy to maintain and able to withstand a lot of traffic is a smart choice. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are often selected by homeowners with children and pets for their durability and ease of cleaning. Carpeting and hardwood floors may stain and scratch more easily than tiles and laminates. Slip-resistant varieties of vinyl flooring are sensible choices for homes with young children or seniors.

When you need flooring installation in Cincinnati, OH, trust Accent Flooring. This family-owned and -operated business offers a wide variety of tiles, carpets, vinyls, and hardwoods. They provide free estimates and in-home consultation to ensure you find the perfect fit for your remodeling project. Call (513) 481-8600 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about them.