Which floor tile would you pick for the basement?

last year

With a dark (almost black) ceiling and light grey walls, I am torn between the 2 colors to pick for the floor. Both are vinyl. Any help making a decision is really appreciated!

PIctures of the basement to give some context. Thinking of installing faux white brick on the window wall.

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Beth H. :

last year

last modified: last year

I think the one on the left, the darker one.

(you'll have to decide which gray tone works best w/your wall color)

although, see my last few photos. consider doing a wood color instead of the gray.

And, take into account the pattern you're picking. a pattern on one plank it doesn't seem like much. but when you have an entire floor of it, it's going to look very busy. I think the lighter one on the right is busy looking. You want a plank w/similar looking patterns on each one. (normally the pictures they use to print are 3 or 5 different patterns)

something like these first two are just too busy looking

this is better

However, gray can be very cold looking, especially in a basement.

don't disregard a nice wood tone. it looks great w/black and the gray walls, and the color will always be in style.

Gray is on the way out and your flooring is going to be around for 10-20 years. choose wisely
this one is nice. even has some slight gray streaks in it. Plus, if you ever want to paint the walls another color, you can do just about any shade and not be guided by the gray flooring.

here's a basement w/gray walls, and black fireplace. this flooring is busy and rustic looking, but it does have the warmer wood tones in addition to the grays.

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Comments (8)

Suki Mom
last year
It would be helpful to post a picture of the floor samples in the room with the walls and ceiling in the same photo.
Lyn Nielson
last year
I would choose the lightest of the two.
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Elizabeth Minish Design
last year
Those two greys have different undertones. We'd need to see which one works best with your pale grey wall colour. Otherwise, I'd probably opt for the lightest as well.
chinacatpeekin
last year
Agree with Beth H. that wood look is better than gray; it looks much better than either gray flooring choice. But in the end, it’s your house, and you should pick what makes you happy!
Maureen
last year
last modified: last year
They are so close, their overall effect will be about the same. It always helps to lay a large quantity to give you a better feel.

Have you considered a wider, lighter style, as the grey may make room feel dreary and I think it’s a more modern, fresher look.
tozmo1
last year
Also agree with @Beth H. :, wood tone is the more classic and longer term choice and makes the room look warmer. Just one question, who hides in the tent? You or the kids? 😂 Maybe it depends on the day.
RedRyder
last year
Another vote for a wood tone. Too much grey is dreary. Light wood or dark wood colored flooring will warm up that room immediately.