Mahogany is an exotic wood with a checkered past and present. New World mahogany is nearly extinct in its once-extensive native range and is only now being sustainably harvested in Honduras. Check for those sustainable forest labels when you buy mahogany.
Mahogany is a highly durable, water-resistant hardwood when installed as flooring. 20 years ago it was rarely encountered, but tree farms in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands have increased the supply. Interestingly enough, Les Paul guitars are made from mahogany due to its density and acoustic properties.
Verify the source of mahogany floors. The floors shown here are not only farmed sustainably, they're turned into floors by workers who are paid a living wage and treated like human beings.
Mahogany
Pros:Timeless, classic hardwood.
Cons: Verify the source, can be unsustainable
Suggested uses: Throughout the house, indoors or out
Price range: $10 to $20 a square foot