Redecorating your home is an exciting journey that allows you to explore new colors, textures, and patterns. From paint and furniture to lighting and flooring, there are countless ways to let your personal style shine through. However, when it comes to flooring, it's important to understand the principles of matching and coordinating to create a harmonious and visually appealing space.
Matching is the concept of using the same flooring throughout your home. Just like a perfectly matched pair of shoes or mittens, matching floors create a cohesive and seamless look. On the other hand, coordinating involves using different flooring types that complement each other while still creating a unified design. It's like pairing shoes with an outfit that doesn't exactly match but still looks great together.
When it comes to flooring, you have the freedom to choose between matching or coordinating. Matching floors create a consistent and streamlined appearance, while coordinating floors offer more variety and the opportunity to tailor each room's flooring to its specific needs. For instance, you can have hardwood floors in the living room, a slightly lighter shade of hardwood in the dining room, and carpeting in the hallway that complements the wood tones.
There are pros and cons to both approaches. Matching floors provide a cohesive look and simplify the cleaning process. However, they may lack creativity and variety. Coordinating floors allow for greater design flexibility and cater to each room's requirements, but they may make the floor plan feel less open and airy.
Deciding whether to match or coordinate your flooring depends on your personal taste and the desired aesthetic for your home. If you prefer a consistent and uniform look, matching floors are a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy experimenting with different styles and textures, coordinating floors offer endless possibilities.
When matching flooring throughout your house, it's crucial to ensure an exact match. Avoid using floorings that are almost the same but not quite, as this can create an awkward visual transition. Take pictures or samples of existing flooring to find the closest match when sourcing new flooring. Writing down important details like wood type, species, grade, color, width, and thickness can help in the search for a perfect match.
If finding an exact match proves challenging, you might consider starting from scratch by stripping the existing floor and refinishing it alongside new flooring. While this may require more effort and cost, it guarantees a seamless match.
Coordinating flooring involves considering various factors to create a cohesive design. Different rooms naturally lend themselves to specific types of flooring, so choose materials that suit the mood and function of each space. When transitioning between different flooring types, do so at natural boundaries between rooms to maintain visual flow. Pay attention to color and avoid placing clashing colors side by side. Stick to a maximum of two different flooring types at any given junction to avoid a cluttered and overwhelming look.
Ultimately, the choice between matching and coordinating flooring is a matter of personal preference. Whichever option you choose, both matching and coordinating can result in beautiful and unique designs that reflect your personality and create a welcoming home.