Dark hardwoods vs. light

11 years ago

I'm in the process of building a house and am currently debating the color of the floors. I love the look of dark, but I like the low maintenance of light. We have a golden retriever... Need I say more?

Featured Answer

barbinor

11 years ago

I too had that dilemma. I am so happy I went with the light natural hickory no shine floor. Dust, dirt, and scratches do not show. I think it depends on what color your cabinets are going to be. I think you can get away with a darker floor if you have white cabinets. I opted for light floor and dark cabinets and the contrast is so rich and classic looking. With a dog that sheds I think you will be sorry with a dark floor. If you are a neat freak and dust mop daily go for it. Dark floors give a very warm rich feel, but I chose to get that effect from my furniture and cabinets. Good luck.

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Comments (7)

alirob2
11 years ago
I like the dark color with the white cabinets!
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magsmayers
Original Author
11 years ago
Thanks for the feedback! We are doing white cabinets with black antique granite on the perimeter and then a black island base with white macaubus quartzite on top. The hardwoods will go throughout the first floor... Approximately 1600 sq ft. The house doesn't get a ton of natural light so I'm also worried that dark floors will create a very dark space. I just love the look of dark... But I don't want to regret my choice either when I'm mopping daily:) I appreciate your input!
alirob2
11 years ago
Knowing that your using black & your space isn't that bright I'd go lighter floors. Personally I like the current color you already have with the cabinets colors & materials your describing. I just remodeled my kitchen ivory cabinets with dark wood island & dark floors. My space is bright though & you do see everything on dark floors but I wouldn't change them. Go with what you love!
magsmayers thanked alirob2
magsmayers
Original Author
11 years ago
Beautiful kitchen alirob! Thanks!
Natalie
11 years ago
Hi---both are nice, but I do prefer the darker of the two. Nice choice and they really do not look all that dark. Just so long as you have a slight contrast between the floor and island, you're good to go. Keep us posted and Good Luck!
PRO
Select Hardwood Floor Co.
11 years ago
The darker material (between those shown) is more attractive (IMHO).
There are way TOO many factors and opinions to list, regarding making choices based on maintenance, pets, etc.
However, there is nothing written un stone that says you can't consider something in between. There are many choices available (depending on who's producing it) which can offer colors in nice, rich medium densities, which are easier to maintain than very dark... yet add a bit more pizazz than choosing too light.
Some of us even offer more than a... "pick this one or that one"... lineup.