Flooring is the foundation of any room — a blank canvas upon which the rest of the decor is built. In addition to defining the style of a space, flooring represents a major investment and typically isn’t changed often. That’s why making the right choice from the beginning is essential.
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Like any interior design trend, flooring styles change over time. But unlike pillows or artwork, floors are permanent. So avoiding dated styles is a smart move for anyone wanting to keep their home looking fresh for years to come. Choosing materials, colors, and finishes that stand the test of time is always a safe bet.
Knowing which styles are out of fashion in 2025 can be tricky, so we asked interior design experts which trends are falling out of favor — and should be avoided this year.
1. Gray-Toned Wood Floors
For years, gray was the go-to neutral for walls, furniture, and flooring. But that tone is now losing popularity, and gray floors are no exception. Rooms with this kind of flooring can feel cold, lifeless, and lacking in personality.
“Gray floors can make spaces feel flat and cold, without the warmth and timelessness that more natural wood tones provide,” says Sky Hofstatter, designer and founder of House of Hof.
According to Hofstatter, while gray offers dull neutrality, natural wood brings depth and coziness, making the space more inviting and elegant.
2. Hexagon Mosaic Tile
Hexagonal mosaic tiles, often used in bathrooms and showers, were once hugely popular. But their “cute” aesthetic doesn’t make up for their lack of practicality, designers say.
All the grout lines make them hard to clean and slippery underfoot. “These tiles now evoke more of a budget hotel renovation than a true spa retreat,” Hofstatter points out. That’s why this trend is rapidly being left behind.
3. Faux Barnwood-Style Flooring
Barnwood-style flooring, especially those with overly rustic or fake finishes, is going out of style. While authentic reclaimed barnwood still has its place, synthetic versions are losing relevance.
“Faux barnwood has had its moment. It used to be great for adding rustic charm, but now it’s starting to feel inauthentic,” says Lauren Kyle, founder of Kyle & Co.
The current preference is for more authentic materials like real reclaimed wood or modern alternatives that deliver texture and natural warmth without looking forced. The goal is to bring genuine character to a space.
4. High-Gloss Flooring
High-gloss finishes — whether on wood or porcelain tile — were once seen as luxurious. Today, however, they’re considered hard to maintain and impractical for everyday living.
“These floors show every scratch, stain, and speck of dust,” explains Hofstatter. Matte or satin finishes are now preferred for their more natural look and modern appeal. They’re also more durable and forgiving — perfect for homeowners looking for beauty and function.
5. Narrow Wood Planks
Narrow wood planks were once associated with classic elegance. But in 2025, they’re being replaced with wide planks that create a more open, clean, and contemporary look.
“Narrow planks can make a space feel cluttered and outdated,” says Hofstatter. Wide planks, on the other hand, highlight the wood grain and make rooms feel larger and more refined.
Source: The Spruce
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
