4 Kitchen Flooring Trends That Are on Their Way Out (and 3 Replacing Them)
Flooring is one of the most crucial (and noticeable!) elements in a home, as it sets the foundation for the entire aesthetic of a space. And accordingly, certain flooring choices can make a home look dated, no matter how new it is. From overwhelming patterns to boring hues, these outdated styles can make a home look and feel stuck in the past.
I chatted with top home experts to narrow down exactly which flooring choices will date a home, plus, modern alternatives that can instantly refresh your space. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or want a few simple updates to revamp your home’s look, making the right flooring choices can be the key to success. Keep reading to learn more about timeless flooring choices for every space.
Outdated 2024 Kitchen Flooring Trends
1. Linoleum and Vinyl Flooring
Unfortunately, not everything old can be new again — experts say that both linoleum and vinyl flooring are less popular than ever. Although they were a huge trend years ago, other flooring materials have replaced them. “Fast forward to today, this flooring choice looks cheap and outdated,” says Richard Ala, the director of Six Brothers Contractors LLC. “It’s a hard-to-clean option that’s a magnet for dirt and stains.”
In regards to vinyl, the Superintendent of ASAP Restoration, Geoff Walker, notes, “While practical and very affordable back in the day, vinyl sheeting is now seen as a thing of the past, and truly outdated as a flooring choice. Not only does vinyl sheeting scream dated style, but it also gives off a very industrial and commercial vibe that puts off most people — even if it weren’t old and dingy.” What’s more, this type of flooring has a tendency to show seams and wear over time, which can most definitely contribute to its dated appearance.
2. Bathroom and Kitchen Carpeting
This one goes for more than just the kitchen. “Bathroom or kitchen carpeting instantly dates your home,” points out Ala. “Besides the obvious hygiene problems, they’re simply impossible to keep clean and are prone to mold. The only potential advantage is that they’re warm in the winter, but thankfully it’s a trend that’s not set for a revival.” However, if you do want carpeting in these high-traffic areas, experts suggest using washable rugs so you can clean them regularly. In terms of mold, be sure to air out spaces, especially the bathroom, after hot showers or baths.
3. Gray Flooring
Believe it or not, some experts say the design world is over the gray flooring trend already. “We’ve just come out of a gray overload, and people are now feeling that it lacks the warmth and character they are yearning for,” explains Nancy Swanton, CEO of Abundant Home Design. “With the current trend towards authenticity in home materials, these options really miss the mark.” While gray hues were recently loved for their versatility and modern vibe, they’re now being seen as overused and generic. “Cold gray tiles or gray-washed wood have been edging out for some time,” adds Ala. “Walking into a home with cold gray flooring gives me chills. I’m overjoyed we’re now shifting to warmer flooring with some color.”
4. Mosaic Tiles
“Mosaic tiles, unless original in a period build, are incredibly outdated,” shares Matthew Consolo, the owner of Dreamscape Construction. “They’re typically tied to a theme, and as with most themes, they don’t age well.” Mosaic tiles are often used in bright, intricate arrangements, which can make a room feel busy or even overwhelming. “A few years back, Morocco style was a thing, and we laid a lot of mosaic floors,” he says. “That theme’s passed, and now we’re ripping up mosaics and replacing them with more neutral flooring.” It’s also worth adding that the grout lines between mosaic tiles can be a hotspot for grime, which means this kind of flooring requires more maintenance than others.
The Most Timeless Kitchen Flooring Trends in 2024
1. Ceramic Tiling
Versatile and durable, ceramic tiling isn’t going out of style anytime soon. Its ability to mimic natural materials like wood and stone while offering a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes makes it a great choice for those who like both traditional and modern interiors. “Neutral matte well-laid tiles will never look out of date,” says Ala. “They’re your typical canvas for a room.” What’s more, this kind of low-maintenance flooring is resistant to moisture, stains, and wear, making it ideal for busy areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
2. Natural Flooring
Natural materials are some of the best options when it comes to flooring throughout the home. Hardwood, stone, and bamboo are timeless options, and they bring an authentic aesthetic to a space. “Natural sustainable flooring is one of the top emerging trends I’m seeing right now,” says Ala. “It’s one I’d predict will never make your home look dated. With so much emphasis on sustainability and the environment in all aspects of our lives, natural flooring is pretty much here to stay.” The best part? It complements a wide range of kitchen styles, meaning it can grow with your taste and style over the years.
3. Polished Cement
This might surprise some people, but polished cement is a beloved flooring choice among designers and homeowners. “This is a very popular technique these days for renovations because it has the same durability factor that ceramic tiles do, if not more, and it does so without the need for mortar, grout, spacers, and levels,” explains Walker. “Typically, a cement floor can be made to look like a variety of finishes, from garage floor to amber light waves.” Not to mention, its high-gloss finish gives it a sophisticated, contemporary look that pairs well with the clean lines and minimalist design of modern interiors. It’s also extremely durable and easy to clean.
The Final Verdict on 2024 Kitchen Flooring Trends
Overall, flooring can make or break the aesthetic and feel of a home. Old styles like linoleum, vinyl sheeting, and carpeting not only make a house feel older (and sometimes even dirty), but can also wear down over time. Updating to more current flooring options, like sleek ceramic tiles, natural materials, or polished cement, can keep a home looking fresh — no matter how old it might actually be.
“Balancing personal style with timeless design starts by understanding your intentions and identifying what you love in terms of colors, textures, and materials,” explains Swanton. “Go for timeless elements for your floors like natural materials and neutral palettes as your foundation, then layer in personal touches with area rugs and accessories that you can easily swap out as your taste evolves. Trends come and go, but if you design your home in a way that truly resonates with you, it will always feel stylish and uniquely yours.”
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