As the reddish/orangey wood tones of the early 2000s fell out of favor, gray-toned flooring became extremely popular around 2012-2018.

Luxury vinyl, laminate, and even hardwood stained a cool gray became widespread in new construction, remodels, and home-flipping shows.

From about 2022-present, interior design is swinging back to warm wood tones, color-drenching, and a desire for evocative character rather than clean neutrality.

Homeowners are gravitating toward walnut, natural oak, and other homey shades like the Pacaya Mesquite hardwood pictured here.

Disclaimer: I personally have gray laminate flooring throughout my home (the builder's choice, not mine), so this is not a slight to anyone who prefers gray! We carry a wide array of wood tones in our showroom and work with YOUR vision for YOUR space, whatever that may be.

When Chip & Joanna Gaines's design business, Magnolia, first started rising in popularity and Fixer Upper was widely watched, stark black and white was the backdrop for trending interiors.

While the whitewashed modern farmhouse craze dominated the 2010s, contemporary design favors a return to rich, creamy neutrals over pure white.

This peaceful view from a kitchen window is part of a beautiful Belton home, where the client chose an understated, sophisticated backsplash from Atlas Concorde’s Rift collection in Chalk.

The varied shades of cream and off-white bring depth and texture to the space, while adding to the warmth and charm of the design.

Pro Tip: You can apply this principle to just about any design element: rugs, carpet, throw pillows/blankets, cabinets, countertops, wall decor, etc.

In keeping with the theme, natural materials and varied textures are ruling the day in tile design.

Customers are gravitating toward materials that are handcrafted, tactile, and dimensional rather than uniform and monochromatic.

The mood board featured here is a great example of different organic tones and tactile patterns working harmoniously together.

I would personally love to copy + paste this design into my own home!

Shop the look:

• Relicca Unbound (octagon & dot) by Daltile
• Relicca Nook (4x4" square) by Daltile
• Calacatta Gold Marble by Marazzi (pickets and penny rounds)