Francisca Alonso, CEO and Co-Founder of AV Architects + Builders recently teamed up with David Benson, President of Architessa, to explore the evolving world of flooring trends for 2023.
Architessa, with its impressive 38-year legacy, has carved a niche as a frontrunner in the tile and architectural surfaces sector, providing a wide range of products that cater to varied design tastes. As a Women-Owned and family-operated enterprise, Architessa brings a wealth of passion and expertise to the tile and stone industry, serving a diverse clientele that includes homeowners, designers, and architects. Their showrooms, spread across the D.C., Virginia, and Maryland regions, display an array of premium tiles, including ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone, and more, all sourced from across the globe.
At AV Architects + Builders, with our rich 23-year history in designing and building custom homes in Northern Virginia, we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of the latest trends and innovations in home design. This article aims to serve as an essential guide for those undertaking home building or renovation projects, providing insights into the latest flooring materials and styles to elevate your living space.
Top Three Residential Flooring Trends of 2023
#1 Luxury Vinyl Planks
The year 2023 saw a significant presence of luxury vinyl products, including luxury vinyl planks (LVP), in the flooring market. Although reaching its peak, LVP remains a popular choice due to its versatility.
AV Architects + Builders, Virginia, Inside Out Home, Photo by Maxwell Mackenzie
#2 Engineered Wood
The standard thickness for materials like quartz and granite has traditionally been two to three centimeters. However, the advent of large format slabs in porcelain has introduced the possibility of much thinner profiles, lending a sleek, modern, and minimalistic aesthetic to kitchen designs. These thinner profiles are not just about the visual appeal; they also speak to the advancements in material engineering and design capabilities. The ability to produce strong, durable countertops in thinner profiles allows for more creative design possibilities. This trend towards thinner profiles is a testament to the evolving preferences of homeowners who are increasingly seeking out modern, streamlined designs.
#3 Porcelain Floors in High-Traffic Areas
Continuing its trend, porcelain flooring has been a preferred choice for areas like mudrooms and entryways. Known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, porcelain offers a practical solution for spaces that experience heavy foot traffic. Its resistance to wear and tear makes it ideal for areas prone to moisture and dirt. The trend towards using porcelain in these areas reflects a growing awareness of the need for long-lasting, low-maintenance flooring solutions in homes. Porcelain's versatility in design and texture also allows it to seamlessly integrate into various interior styles.
Material Innovations in 2023
#1 Porcelain Possibilities
A groundbreaking trend in 2023 is the introduction of floating floors in engineered wood. These floors do not require a click-and-lock system but instead use tracks, allowing for easy installation and the ability to replace individual planks. This innovation marks a significant advancement in flooring installation, offering convenience and flexibility to homeowners. The ease of installation and maintenance of these floating floors is revolutionizing the way people think about and install flooring. This trend is indicative of the industry's focus on creating user-friendly, adaptable flooring solutions that cater to the changing needs of modern homeowners.
#2 Porcelain Tile Planks that Look Like Wood
Another innovative product gaining popularity is porcelain tile planks that mimic the look of wood. Ideal for households with pets, these tiles offer the aesthetic appeal of wood without the susceptibility to scratches, combining practicality with style. This innovation is particularly appealing to those who love the natural look of wood but require a more durable and maintenance-friendly option. The wood-look tile planks are a perfect example of how modern technology is able to merge the beauty of natural materials with the durability and functionality of man-made products. This trend is a response to the growing demand for flooring that is both beautiful and practical.
Architessa, Canton Mill, Porcelain, Multi-color
Flooring style versatility and adaptation
#1 LVP: Durability and Definition
#2 Engineered Wood: Sizing and Patterns
#3 Porcelain: Color and Texture
The flooring industry has adapted to the varying needs of buyers by offering products with thicker wear layers, more defined graphics, and diverse designs. Engineered wood has expanded to include different patterns like Chevron and parquet, while porcelain tiles now come in a wide range of colors and textures. These advancements reflect the industry's commitment to providing flooring options that cater to different lifestyles and design preferences. The diversity in flooring options available today means that there is something to suit every taste and requirement, from the traditional to the contemporary. This adaptability is crucial in an industry where consumer preferences are constantly evolving.
Most Durable flooring options
#1. Porcelain
When it comes to durability, porcelain is the top contender, especially in households with pets or children. Its resistance to wear and tear makes it an ideal choice for busy homes.
#2. Luxury Vinyl Planks
Following closely is LVP, known for its robust wear layer that withstands scratching, staining, and liquid spills.
Architessa, Allegheny LVP, Findlay
Most Budget-friendly flooring options in 2023
#1. Luxury Vinyl Planks
Architessa offers a variety of flooring materials to suit different budgets. Luxury vinyl plank stands out as a cost-effective option, typically priced under $4 per square foot, with lower installation costs due to its ease of installation.
#2. Porcelain
Porcelain, another affordable choice, offers fewer grout lines and a sleek look for various spaces. The availability of affordable yet high-quality flooring options is a significant development in the industry, making stylish and durable floors accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Top Care and Maintenance tips for flooring
#1. Architessa Care and Maintenance Tips
For maintaining different flooring types, Architessa recommends visiting their website for care and maintenance tips. Using pH-balanced cleaners is advised for all flooring types, ensuring longevity and preserving the floor's appearance. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of any flooring, and following the manufacturer's guidelines can prevent damage and wear. The emphasis on proper care and maintenance underscores the importance of preserving the beauty and functionality of flooring investments. These care tips are an invaluable resource for homeowners, helping them keep their floors looking new for years to come.
Check out Architessa's Care and Maintenance Tips here.
David’s Personal Favorite Flooring Pick of 2023
#1. Limestone
If building his own dream home, David Benson would opt for a limestone floor throughout the first floor, appreciating its natural beauty and movement. The preference for natural materials like limestone reflects a desire for authenticity and timelessness in home design.
#2. Engineered Wood Planks 8in or 9in wide
In the absence of a budget for limestone, he would choose engineered wood with wide planks, which create an open and sophisticated look. The wide planks in engineered wood offer a modern twist, making spaces appear larger and more open.
Residential Countertop Trends of 2023 with AV Architects + Builders and Architessa
The insightful conversation between Francisca Alonso and David Benson offers a comprehensive look into the flooring trends of 2023, highlighting a dynamic shift in the preferences and innovations within the industry. This year, we witnessed a clear inclination towards materials that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of homes but also offer practical solutions to everyday challenges. The popularity of luxury vinyl planks, engineered wood, and porcelain floors in high-traffic areas underscores a broader trend towards versatile, durable, and stylish flooring options.
The flooring trends of 2023, as discussed by Francisca and David, reflect a shift towards innovative, durable, and aesthetically versatile options. These trends are shaping the way we think about flooring in our homes, moving towards solutions that are not only in line with current design preferences but also equipped to meet the demands of modern living.
For more information or to consult with a design expert, you can reach out to Architessa at sales@architessa.com or visit their website at architessa.com
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