How to Incorporate Exotic Wood Flooring into Your Home Design
Exotic wood flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of luxury and individuality to their living spaces. Unlike traditional hardwoods, exotic wood options such as teak, tigerwood, and Brazilian cherry offer unique grain patterns, rich colors, and textures that instantly elevate the aesthetic of any room. These woods are not only visually striking but also known for their durability and lasting beauty. Whether you’re aiming for a bold, dramatic statement or a subtle, timeless look, incorporating exotic wood flooring can bring an element of nature into your home while enhancing its overall design. Let’s explore how to seamlessly integrate these distinctive floors into various areas of your home for maximum impact.
What is Exotic Wood Flooring?
Exotic wood flooring is made from hardwoods that are sourced from trees found in far-off regions like Africa, South America, or Southeast Asia. These woods are often chosen for their unique grain patterns, vibrant colors, and durability. Some popular examples of exotic hardwoods include:
- Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) – Known for its deep reddish-brown color and dense texture.
- Tigerwood – Characterized by its rich golden-brown hues with black streaks.
- Teak – A highly durable wood with a golden-brown shade, perfect for high-moisture areas.
- Mahogany – Famous for its rich red and brown tones.
- Bamboo – Technically a grass, bamboo is eco-friendly and has a smooth, modern appearance.
These exotic woods can provide a touch of luxury and make a bold statement in your home.
Benefits of Exotic Wood Flooring
Before diving into how to incorporate exotic wood flooring into your home, let’s take a moment to explore the benefits that come with this high-quality material:
- Uniqueness: Each piece of exotic wood flooring has its own distinctive pattern and color variation, giving your floors a one-of-a-kind look.
- Durability: Exotic woods are typically harder and more durable than domestic hardwoods, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Bamboo, one of the most popular exotic flooring options, is a sustainable and renewable resource.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The natural beauty of exotic woods, combined with their deep, rich tones, brings elegance and sophistication to any room.
- Increased Home Value: Installing exotic wood flooring can increase the value of your home, as it appeals to buyers who are looking for unique and premium materials.
Where to Use Exotic Wood Flooring in Your Home
Exotic wood flooring can be used in a variety of spaces to create a dramatic, luxurious feel. Here are some suggestions on where to incorporate exotic wood flooring into your home design:
1. Living Room
The living room is one of the most important areas in your home where you can make a statement with your flooring. Exotic wood flooring with rich hues like Brazilian cherry or mahogany will add a sense of sophistication and warmth to the space. The natural grains and textures of these woods will capture attention, creating a focal point that enhances the overall design of your living room.
When paired with soft furnishings in neutral tones, exotic wood flooring can stand out without overwhelming the space. Consider adding a large area rug to complement the flooring and make the room feel even cozier.
2. Kitchen
While exotic wood flooring is often used in formal areas of the home, it can also work beautifully in the kitchen. Teak and bamboo are two popular choices due to their durability and resistance to moisture. Teak, in particular, has natural oils that make it an excellent option for high-moisture areas like the kitchen. It’s a great way to bring a touch of luxury and warmth to a space that is usually dominated by stainless steel and tile.
Pairing exotic wood flooring with modern, sleek cabinetry and countertops can create an interesting contrast between organic and contemporary styles.
3. Bedroom
In the bedroom, exotic wood flooring can help create a calming and inviting atmosphere. The rich, deep colors of mahogany or tigerwood can transform a basic room into a serene sanctuary. The smooth, glossy finish of exotic hardwoods also adds a sense of elegance that is perfect for creating a peaceful retreat.
To keep the room feeling cozy and inviting, consider pairing the flooring with plush textiles like soft bedding and luxurious curtains in muted tones. This will allow the beauty of the exotic wood to shine while ensuring that the room remains comfortable and stylish.
4. Hallways and Entryways
The hallway or entryway is the first impression guests will have of your home, so it’s a great place to install exotic wood flooring. Use it to set the tone for the rest of your home, whether you choose a lighter exotic wood like bamboo or a darker, more dramatic choice like Brazilian cherry. Exotic wood in entryways creates a luxurious and welcoming vibe.
Opt for a wider plank to make the hallway feel more expansive, or choose a more intricate pattern like herringbone or chevron to add texture and interest.
5. Bathroom
Although exotic wood floors may not be the first material you think of for a bathroom, they can work exceptionally well when combined with other natural materials such as stone and glass. Teak is especially popular in bathrooms due to its water-resistant properties. It’s ideal for creating a spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom, adding warmth and sophistication.
Keep in mind that proper sealing and maintenance are crucial to protect the wood from moisture damage. With the right care, exotic wood can help create a luxurious, hotel-like feel in your bathroom.
How to Style Rooms with Exotic Wood Flooring
Once you’ve decided where to install exotic wood flooring, consider how you can style the room around it. Here are a few tips for making the most of your exotic floors:
- Pair with Neutral Furniture: Exotic wood flooring is a bold statement in itself, so it’s a good idea to pair it with neutral or subdued-colored furniture. This will allow the flooring to be the focal point without competing with other design elements.
- Add Natural Textures: Consider incorporating other natural textures into your design, such as wool rugs, linen curtains, or leather chairs. These elements will complement the exotic wood flooring and bring a harmonious, organic feel to the space.
- Accent with Metal: If you want to add a touch of modern flair, consider incorporating metallic accents into your décor. Bronze or gold lighting fixtures, coffee tables, or accessories can create an interesting contrast with the natural wood tones.
- Use Light and Dark Contrast: Pair dark exotic woods with lighter-colored walls or furniture to create contrast and make the wood stand out even more. Alternatively, lighter exotic woods like bamboo can be paired with darker accents for a balanced look.
Maintenance and Care for Exotic Wood Flooring
Exotic wood flooring is durable, but it still requires some care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Here are a few tips to keep your floors looking great:
- Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your floors regularly to remove dirt and debris. Use a microfiber cloth or mop to clean the surface without damaging the wood.
- Avoid Moisture: Exotic woods like teak and bamboo are resistant to moisture, but it’s still important to wipe up spills immediately to prevent any long-term damage.
- Use Rugs and Mats: Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear. This is especially important in entryways and hallways.
- Refinish When Necessary: Over time, your exotic wood floors may show signs of wear. Consider refinishing them every few years to restore their shine and protect them from further damage.
Why Choose Sharp Floors & Granite Countertops for Your Exotic Wood Flooring Installation
At Sharp Floors & Granite Countertops, we specialize in providing high-quality exotic wood flooring options that can transform your home. Our team is experienced in flooring installation and can guide you in choosing the right exotic wood for your space, ensuring a seamless and professional installation. With a variety of exotic hardwoods to choose from, we’ll help you create a unique and luxurious atmosphere in your home.
If you’re ready to elevate your home with exotic wood flooring, contact us today at 214-227-2841 to schedule your consultation. We’ll walk you through every step of the process, from selection to installation, ensuring your floors look stunning for years to come.
