1. Natural Stone Flooring. There is no discussion of luxury flooring without talking about natural stone. Its polished surface and organic grains or swirls instantly summon thoughts of ancient temples and palaces.
Natural Stone Flooring
A natural stone floor is one of the most opulent high-end flooring because of its naturally shiny appearance. Marble is a popular choice for people who want to bring that palace feel to their foyer. It is a premium feature of many high-class homes and brings a bit of whimsy to a space.
For some homeowners, the choice between luxury vinyl and genuine hardwood comes down to a variety of factors including budget, lifestyle, and personal taste. High-end homes may still opt for the timeless appeal of real hardwood in main living areas, while using LVP or LVT in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
The more expensive flooring upgrades yield the highest returns and appeal most to homebuyers. And hardwood is the clear winner, followed by engineered hardwood and tile. Carpet and luxury vinyl tiles add comparable value, though vinyl is the cheapest option.
Top 6 Most Popular Flooring in New Homes 2025. The most popular flooring in new homes is wood floors, including prefinished hardwood, unfinished hardwood, and engineered wood followed by laminate, luxury vinyl tiles, and luxury vinyl planks.
Cons: LVP May Fade in Direct Sunlight
This inconsistency in appearance detracts from the overall visual appeal of the flooring and limits where it can be installed in the home. Furthermore, fixing faded portions of a floor often means replacing those areas, which adds to its overall cost over the long-term.
Since most furniture will not go under just one plank, it is perfectly safe for bulky furniture and refrigerators to go on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring will not be damaged or cracked by home appliances' weight due to its strong durability.
Conclusion: What Flooring is Best Value for Money
For the best balance of affordability, durability, and looks, consider luxury vinyl plank (LVP).
High-end flooring materials that are popular for luxury homes include exotic hardwoods like Brazilian Walnut and Mahogany, hand-scraped hardwoods, marble, porcelain tile that mimics marble, natural stone such as travertine and granite, and luxurious carpeting, especially wool natural fiber carpet.
In conclusion, hybrid herringbone, NSW spotted gum, and 7mm hybrid floorboards are set to be the top trends in flooring for 2024. These options not only provide home style but also offer unique blends of modernity, elegance, practicality, and durability.
One of the most exciting trends for 2024 is the continued love for natural, sustainable materials. Homeowners are increasingly looking to both protect and connect with nature, and flooring options like hardwood, bamboo, and cork are at the top of the list for their eco-friendly appeal and timeless beauty.
But while a damaged luxury vinyl plank may need to be replaced, an engineered hardwood plank can be sanded and refinished several times. Ultimately, engineered hardwood floors are likely to last 25 to 50 years or more, while luxury vinyl plank flooring may need to be replaced in 20 to 30 years.
Many interior designers and architects favor engineered hardwood floors because of their durability, versatility, and stability.
Both flooring options are scratch-resistant and can handle heavy foot traffic. However, hybrid vinyl has a clear edge. The rigid core layer makes it highly durable and can withstand wear and tear, dents and scratches. Especially if you have pets or children, hybrid vinyl is a great option.
Does vinyl flooring devalue a home? It's possible. While vinyl plank floors are affordable and versatile, they might not boost your home's resale value like hardwood or tile would.
Natural Color, Textures and Rustic Charm
Reclaimed wood flooring is at the forefront of this trend, as it not only showcases the beauty of natural wood but also embodies a commitment to sustainability. This desire to connect to nature has also led to an appreciation for natural textures in wood flooring.
The best flooring for resale value: The ROI on wood floors
They're durable, versatile, and most buyers love them. According to real estate experts, the average ROI for installing hardwood floors is about 70% to 80%, and wood floors can boost the sales price of your home as much as 2.5%.
It's a smart idea; hardwood flooring is preferred by home buyers and renters across the United States so it could improve the resale value of your home when it comes time to sell.. But consider all your options carefully. Here's more about flooring made from hardwood and why you might prefer it to wall-to-wall carpet.