Only your imagination can limit your choices here. Consider laying your floor on the diagonal to focus the flow within the room. Use a contrasting or complementary color of wood to frame the room, or to create a dramatic focal point. A border or contrasting color can also be used as a transition from an existing floor to a new, non-matching floor in an adjoining room. Another way to achieve transition to a non-matching floor is to run boards in the opposite direction of the existing floor.
Choose your floor to coordinate with the style you like. Whether your home is traditional, country or contemporary, wood floors can make a statement. For traditional or country/colonial décors, a wide-width board is an appropriate choice. Narrow-width boards are more likely to be used in a contemporary setting. Darker woods can have a more formal look, while lighter floors such as natural or whitewashed tones lend themselves to more casual styles.
If your room is small, select a lighter color to make the room appear large. Rich, darker tones will adsorb available light and create a warmer, more intimate environment in a larger room.
Be sure to choose a color to either coordinate or contrast with your current furnishings and cabinetry. If your cabinets are brown-toned, stay with a brown-toned wood floor rather than a flooring with red or gray tones. For contrast, white cabinets look great with virtually any wood floor.
The size of your windows, the direction they face, and whether the rooms have incandescent or fluorescent light all contribute to the appearance of your floor. Always view your wood selection in the same lighting as what will be used in your home.
Your wood floor is a secure choice, both as a long-lasting investment in your home and as a reflection of your decorating style. You can use wood throughout your home to create continuity and to visually expand your interior décor.