Midcentury Modern Flooring Options

Published on Tuesday, April 20th, 2021

Flooring trends tend to come and go, yet we still know quite a few designs that remain the same over the centuries. The middle of the 20th century will always be remembered as a peak of great design. Stepping out of the Victorian Era and the simplicity of traditional hardwood, the 1950s and 1960s were all about linoleum and vinyl. In fact, the mid-century was fashionable and colorful, giving advantage to unique colorings and patterns. It’s no wonder why some of those mid-century flooring options remain popular even in modern times.

If you’re obsessed with the 1950s flooring like many other homeowners, you came to the right place. Today we discuss the most wanted midcentury modern flooring options. Stay with us, and you’ll find the one that perfectly matches your design goals. 

Slate

One of the first steps toward creating the look of a mid-century modern home is bringing the outdoors inside. We recommend natural stone for the purpose or slate flooring in particular. Do you know that the former was a huge hit in the 1960s? Yes, this option gives the home a beautiful natural look and provides a lovely contrast with the equally popular wood furniture. 

Mid-century slate floor tile is one of the most durable flooring options and works great for kitchens and entryways. Coming in light and dark gray and a touch of reddish, this flooring option is really something special. However, if you’re looking for easy-to-clean and repair flooring, slate might not be the best choice for you. 

Terrazzo

Terrazzo is probably the most luxurious floor option on the market. It’s similar to a concrete floor and often used in commercial settings to enhance the elegance of the interior. Homeowners also install it on the floor, walls, countertops, and backsplashes to make the area pop out. 

What makes mid-century modern terrazzo flooring popular, you may ask? Terrazzo is a composite material made of crushed chips of stone like marble or quartz. Thanks to the unique formula, the flooring has a retro look and complements every interior. Although it usually comes in gray, terrazzo can be found with unique pops of color such as pink, red, and orange. 

There are only two things you should keep in mind with this flooring option. Terrazzo is quite slippery and expensive. 

Cork

If you’re looking for unique textures and a soft, cushioned surface, cork flooring might be a perfect fit for you. Cork was a traditional flooring option during the middle of the 20th century because of its natural look. Today, people still enjoy its design and eco-friendly properties. With cork tiles, homeowners get easy installation and a unique look at a reasonable price. Who can ask for more?

Well, we have to mention that low durability is one of the main drawbacks of cork flooring. Those who need a long-lasting solution should check out some other options on our list. 

Bamboo

Are you up for a contemporary flooring option that will make your home stand out from others? Consider bamboo as your new design solution! Bamboo is affordable, easy to install, and durable. It’s also eco-friendly and gives the feel of hardwood with a mid-century look. Sounds interesting? It is! Just keep in mind that inexpensive bamboo might scratch easily. 

Hardwood

Considering how things are going so far, there’s not even the slightest chance hardwood will be out of date anytime soon. Hardwood floors were originally introduced in mid-century homes and remained popular in residential and commercial settings even in modern times. Why wouldn’t they? Hardwood is a beautiful material that offers elegance and luxury in every room of the house. It’s also extremely durable, warm, and easy to install. 

However, hardwood flooring is probably one of the priciest options on the market. The option offers many styles, colors, and patterns to fit different interior designs, but each one of them costs an arm and a leg. Those on a low budget will have to skip this option and go for less expensive alternatives with a hardwood appearance.  

Polished Concrete

Now for the affordable mid-century flooring: enter polished concrete! This flooring option has the luxury of terrazzo and the elegance of hardwood. Smooth and sleek, with the touch of an industrial look, polished concrete fits perfectly in both residential and commercial settings. Plus, every home and business owner out there wants concrete flooring because of the easy installation, simple maintenance, and durable properties. The only drawback comes from the hard and cold surface that takes time to warm up during winter. 

Ceramic Tile

Did we mention that the entire 20th century was obsessed with unusual colors and patterns? No wonder everyone wanted ceramic tiles on their floors. This flooring emerged as the best option for mixing and matching colors and patterns. Ceramic tiles come in all kinds of designs and can make your rooms pop out. On top of that, they are resistant to water and stains and extremely durable. 

We wouldn’t, however, recommend ceramic tiles for cold climates because this flooring option can be cold and hard underfoot. 

Vinyl Tile

Mid-century modern style flooring recognizes vinyl composite tile as a beautiful option for residential homes. Due to its porosity, however, we are more eager to recommend luxury vinyl tile. The effect is the same with both flooring types – beautiful and elegant mid-century look. As long as you’re okay with a tricky installation and easy-to-scratch surface, luxury vinyl tile flooring will do wonders for your home. 

Carpet

The carpet is going strong for decades. With the ability to warm up spaces and make rooms super cozy, this flooring option is just perfect for every building out there. Whether you put it in the office or your bedroom, you’ll get beautiful results and increased comfort all year round. Modern carpet also comes in some amazing designs from contemporary to retro looks to meet all needs and desires. 

However, you should stay away from this cozy flooring option if you suffer from allergies or seek an easy-to-maintain floor. 

Pick Midcentury Modern Flooring Options with Scottsdale Flooring America

Is it time to pick the new floor for your home now that you know all the most popular mid-century modern flooring options? Scottsdale Flooring America provides a collection of all of the flooring solutions listed above. You can browse freely through them and pick the perfect one for your house. Contact us today and let us assist you in making your flooring dream come true!