When laying flooring throughout multiple rooms, deciding on the direction of the boards can make a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your space. While there’s no strict rule, there are practical tips and guidelines to help you make the best decision for your home.
Create a Cohesive Look......
Running the flooring in the same direction throughout the entire downstairs area creates a cohesive and continuous appearance. This approach is often the preferred option, as it ensures a seamless flow between rooms and avoids visual breaks that might feel disjointed.
Changing directions between rooms, particularly in open-plan or connected spaces, can draw attention to transition points, disrupting the harmony of the design.
Consider Hallway Transitions......
For hallways, the typical approach is to run the flooring lengthwise—from the front door toward the interior of the house. This layout aligns with the natural flow of the space and creates a visually elongating effect, making the hallway appear longer and more inviting.
However, if this direction conflicts with adjoining rooms, prioritising consistency across all spaces might be more important than following the hallway “norm”.
Maximise Natural Light ......
In living rooms and other large spaces, aligning the boards with the primary light source, such as large windows or patio doors, is a popular choice. This layout enhances the perception of depth and makes the room feel more open and spacious.
Transition Solutions ......
If changing directions between rooms is unavoidable, consider Threshold Strips to create a deliberate visual break
Use these to create a deliberate visual break at doorways or between spaces. This can make the change in direction feel intentional rather than accidental.
We can also provide staircase timber to match your flooring for a seamless continuation.
Follow Your Preferences ......
Ultimately, there is no strict rule for flooring direction. Much depends on your preferences, the architectural layout of your home, and the atmosphere you want to create. If you’re unsure, lay out a few boards in different directions to visualise the effect in each space.
In bedrooms you might wish to align with the light source or if it’s a narrow room like this one to the right – running the boards along the longer wall create the illusion of a larger space. Read more about bedroom trends for 2025 here.
Send us your project details......
Whether you choose a cohesive single direction for your wood flooring or embrace creative transitions, the key is to ensure the flooring direction complements the flow and design of your home. If in doubt, consult with a professional installer who can provide expert guidance tailored to your space.
