Trends in timber flooring: What's popular for 2025

Sustainability takes centre stage

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword - it's a core value in the building and design industries. Consumers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, and this mindset is influencing floor choices. In response, timber flooring manufacturers are sourcing wood from sustainably managed forests and using eco-friendly processes to create their products. 

Expect a surge in demand for certified sustainable timber flooring in 2025. Certifications like FSC and PEFC are becoming more common and important for buyers looking to make environmentally responsible choices. 

Wide plank timber flooring

Wide plank timber flooring has gained traction over the last few years and shows no sign of slowing down in 2025. Wider planks create a sense of grandeur, making spaces feel more open and modern. They also highlight the woods natural grain and unique features, adding depth and character to any room. 

This trend is especially popular in large, open plan living areas and commercial spaces, where an expansive floor surface can truly showcase the beauty of wide boards. 

Neutral shades and lighter tones 

Over the past few years, there has been a shift towards lighter-coloured wood tones in both residential and commercial spaces. This trend is set to continue into 2025 as lighter finishes, such as Limewash, Blackbutt, and White Sands , become more popular. These tones create a sense of spaciousness and are perfect for achieving a light, airy aesthetic that pairs well with contemporary interiors. 

While traditional tones are still popular, neutral timber shades are becoming increasingly trendy, particularly in urban and modern settings. These neutral tones complement industrial, minimalist, and Scandinavian-inspired designs, and they are versatile enough to pair with a wide range of colour schemes and furniture styles. 

Textured and distressed finishes

In 2025, timber flooring is not just about aesthetics but also texture. Distressed, wire brushed, and hand scraped finishes are gaining popularity as home owners and businesses look for more tactile and character-rich surfaces. These finishes add visual interest, making the floor feel less polished and more organic. 

Distressed finishes, in particular, help to create a sense of history and character in a space. These textures can make any timber floor stand out, whether it's a more refined, aged appearance or a unique, handcrafted look.

Herringbone and Chevron patterns 

Patterned timber flooring is making a strong statement, with Herringbone and Chevron emerging as top choices for those seeking a sophisticated and timeless look. These classic patterns add a sense of movement and elegance to any space, making them particularly popular in high-end residential homes and commercial interiors.

Herringbone, with it's distinctive V-shaped, staggered arrangement, creates a refined yet dynamic visual effect, enhancing both traditional and modern interiors. Meanwhile Chevron's, continuous zigzag pattern, offers a sleek and structured aesthetic that brings a touch of Parisian charm to contemporary spaces. 

Whether used throughout an entire space or as a feature area, Herringbone and Chevron designs continue to gain popularity as a stylish alternative to a traditional plank layout. 

Wood grading: understanding quality

An important consideration when selecting timber flooring is wood grading, which refers to the visual appearance of the wood. Grades such as AB, ABCD, or Rustic indicate the number of knots, colour variations, and natural characteristics in the wood. 

AB Grade: Often referred to as "prime grade," this features minimal knots, a more uniform appearance, making it a popular choice for modern, clean designs.

ABCD Grade: This grade includes more natural variations, such as knots and colour differences, offering a slightly more character-filled look. 

Rustic Grade: Known for its pronounced imperfections, rustic grade timber embraces the full spectrum of natural beauty, making it ideal for spaces seeking warmth and authenticity. 

In summary

As timber flooring continues to evolve, the latest trends highlight a perfect blend of sustainability, style, and functionality. From eco-friendly sourcing to growing popularity of wide planks, neutral tones, and textured finishes, homeowners and designers have more options then ever to create stunning and enduring spaces. The resurgence of Herringbone and Chevron patterns adds a touch of timeless elegance, while wood grading helps tailor flooring choices to suit different aesthetics. Whether aiming for a sleek modern look or a more natural aesthetic, these trends ensure timber flooring remains a top choice. www.asttimbers.com.au/ranges