When it comes to designing a home, flooring is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. It sets the tone for your space, influences durability, and can even impact your home’s resale value. But with so many options available—hardwood, tile, carpet, and beyond—it can be overwhelming to choose the right material.

To simplify the process, I reached out to interior designers to uncover the flooring choices they consistently use in their own homes. These are the materials that combine style, functionality, and longevity, making them perfect for any homeowner looking to elevate their space. Here’s what the pros recommend—and why you should consider them too.

1. Hardwood Floors: Timeless Elegance That Never Goes Out of Style

Why Designers Love It:

  • Versatility: Hardwood complements virtually any design aesthetic, from modern minimalism to rustic charm.
  • Durability: Properly maintained hardwood can last for decades, making it a smart long-term investment.
  • Resale Value: Homes with hardwood floors often fetch higher prices due to their timeless appeal.

Best For:

Living rooms, dining areas, hallways, and bedrooms.

Tips for Success:

  • Choose wide planks for a contemporary look or narrow strips for traditional elegance.
  • Opt for engineered hardwood if you live in a humid climate—it’s more resistant to warping than solid wood.
  • Seal the floors regularly to protect against scratches and stains.

One designer shared that she chose white oak hardwood for her living room because of its warm undertones and ability to hide imperfections better than darker woods. “It’s forgiving and beautiful,” she said, “and it makes the room feel brighter.”

2. Porcelain Tile: The Workhorse of Kitchens and Bathrooms

Why Designers Love It:

  • Water Resistance: Porcelain tile is highly resistant to moisture, making it ideal for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Variety: Available in countless colors, patterns, and textures—including styles that mimic natural stone or wood.
  • Low Maintenance: It’s easy to clean and doesn’t require sealing like natural stone.

Best For:

Kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and laundry areas.

Tips for Success:

  • Look for large-format tiles to minimize grout lines and create a sleek, seamless appearance.
  • Use textured tiles in high-slip areas like showers or entryways for added safety.
  • Pair porcelain tile with radiant heating for luxurious warmth underfoot.

A designer confessed that she installed porcelain tile resembling Calacatta marble in her kitchen. “I wanted the luxury of marble without the maintenance,” she explained. “It’s gorgeous and practical—a win-win.”

3. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): The Budget-Friendly Powerhouse

Why Designers Love It:

  • Affordability: LVP offers the look of hardwood or stone at a fraction of the cost.
  • Durability: It’s scratch-, dent-, and water-resistant, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
  • Comfort: Unlike hard surfaces like tile, LVP has a slight give, making it easier on joints.

Best For:

Family rooms, playrooms, basements, and rental properties.

Tips for Success:

  • Invest in higher-quality LVP with thicker wear layers for greater longevity.
  • Avoid overly glossy finishes, which can show dirt and smudges more easily.
  • Consider peel-and-stick options for DIY-friendly installations.

One designer revealed that she used LVP in her basement family room after years of dealing with stained carpet. “It’s transformed the space,” she said. “It’s durable enough for kids and pets but still looks upscale.”

4. Natural Stone: A Statement-Making Choice for Foyers and Patios

Why Designers Love It:

  • Uniqueness: Each slab of natural stone—whether marble, travertine, or slate—is one-of-a-kind, adding character to your home.
  • Luxury Appeal: Nothing screams sophistication quite like natural stone.
  • Longevity: When properly sealed and maintained, natural stone can last a lifetime.

Best For:

Entryways, fireplaces, outdoor patios, and accent walls.

Tips for Success:

  • Seal natural stone regularly to prevent staining and etching.
  • Choose honed or matte finishes over polished ones for a more forgiving surface.
  • Use rugs or mats in high-traffic zones to reduce wear and tear.

A designer mentioned that she splurged on travertine tile for her foyer. “It’s elegant yet earthy,” she said. “Every time I walk through the door, it feels like coming home to something special.”

5. Wool Carpet: Softness Meets Sustainability

Why Designers Love It:

  • Comfort: Wool is plush underfoot, providing unmatched coziness.
  • Sustainability: As a renewable resource, wool is eco-friendly and biodegradable.
  • Stain Resistance: Wool naturally repels liquids, thanks to its lanolin content.

Best For:

Bedrooms, nurseries, and formal living spaces.

Tips for Success:

  • Stick to neutral tones or subtle patterns for a timeless look.
  • Add a high-quality pad underneath for extra cushioning and insulation.
  • Vacuum regularly to maintain the carpet’s pile and prevent matting.

One designer admitted that she couldn’t resist wool carpet for her master bedroom. “It’s soft, quiet, and adds a layer of luxury,” she said. “Plus, it’s durable enough to handle everyday life.”

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right flooring is about balancing aesthetics, functionality, and budget—and these five options strike that balance beautifully. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of hardwood, the practicality of porcelain tile, or the cozy charm of wool carpet, each choice reflects the wisdom of seasoned designers who know how to blend beauty with livability.

As someone who recently renovated my home, I took inspiration from these expert picks and opted for a mix of hardwood and LVP. The result? A space that’s stylish, durable, and perfectly suited to my lifestyle. So take a cue from the pros and invest in flooring that will stand the test of time—you won’t regret it!