Cutting-Edge Floors

Have you ever thought wood floors were too conventional or boring for a project? Do the straight lines of traditional red oak flooring (and the accompanying orange tint from the 1980s) make your eyes roll?
Modern patterns, borders, medallions, and new finishing techniques keep real wood floors at the cutting edge of style options for upscale homes and large projects.

Boardwalk works directly with manufacturers to create the exact specifications for these patterns directly from the factory. This can also be done on-site by skilled installation teams. While this process can use more material and time to produce, the results are undeniably remarkable. A herringbone (or double-herringbone), wide-plank chevron, or a tasteful border with a complimentary species will elevate a simple, classic space into an extraordinary masterpiece.

Borders, patterns, and medallions offer the opportunity to combine multiple wood species with varying color tones, creating a visually captivating effect. For instance, while a floor entirely in deep, rich mahogany might exceed budget constraints, using it as a border with a lighter wood centerpiece can provide the perfect contrast.

Moreover, integrating other materials such as stone, tile, brushed aluminum, or polished brass can further enhance your floor designs. These elements can serve as stunning accessories to wood floors, adding a unique and sophisticated touch to any space.

These images above are some featured patterns from our partner, Vintage Hardwood Flooring. We work with Oshkosh for medallions (wood and stone), parquet floors, and intricate borders.

If your next project calls for something attention-getting and cutting-edge, don't count out wood! A tasteful mix of geometry, species, and materials is the key to making a modern flooring pattern stand out like never before.
 

Feel free to reach out for samples, detailed specifications, or any other inquiries.

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The Hidden Dangers of Plastic Flooring and Why Real Wood is a Better Choice

There are no vinyl trees. There is no plastic forest.

If you are like most people, you probably thought that the use of toxic, carcinogenic chemicals like asbestos and mercury was outlawed years ago. However, there are unfortunate loopholes that allow these chemicals to be used in chlorine production for PVC, which is used in vinyl flooring manufacturing.

Understanding the Impact of PVC Flooring

A recent report from the Center for Environmental Health sheds light on the significant environmental and health risks associated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flooring. PVC, often used for its durability and cost-effectiveness, comes with hidden dangers that every architect, interior designer, and home builder should be aware of.

Key Takeaways from the Report

• Underreported Emissions: The Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for PVC flooring often underreport the actual carbon emissions, especially for materials produced in China.

• Toxic Chemicals: The manufacturing process of PVC flooring involves hazardous chemicals such as PFAS, mercury, and asbestos, posing severe health risks.

• PFAS Exposure: PFAS chemicals, used in PVC production, are toxic and persist in the environment, leading to long-term health risks.

• Environmental and Health Risks: The production shift to China has increased the carbon footprint due to coal reliance, and exposure to toxic substances during manufacturing poses significant occupational hazards.

• Need for Transparency: There is a strong call for improved transparency in EPDs and better regulations to mitigate these impacts.

Implications for Professionals

Interior designers, home builders, and architects should prioritize choosing eco-friendly flooring alternatives and educating clients about the risks associated with PVC flooring. By avoiding plastic materials, they can reduce the carbon footprint and exposure to toxic substances, ensuring safer construction practices. Incorporating sustainable and healthier building materials not only adheres to regulatory compliance but also promotes a healthier living environment. Advocating for transparency in material sourcing and supporting policies that mitigate environmental and health impacts is crucial for building a sustainable future.

Why Real Wood Flooring is a Superior Choice

Real wood flooring stands out as a sustainable and healthier alternative to PVC. Here’s why you should consider real wood:

• Natural and Safe: Wood does not involve the toxic chemicals required in PVC production.

• Sustainable: When sourced responsibly, wood is a renewable resource with a lower environmental impact.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Wood flooring offers unique and timeless beauty and can enhance the value of any space.

Taking Action

To build healthier and more sustainable environments, it’s crucial to move away from PVC flooring and embrace real wood alternatives. By making informed choices, advocating for transparency, and supporting eco-friendly practices, we can collectively reduce the negative impacts on our planet and health.

Remember: Your choices as architects, designers, and builders play a significant role in shaping a healthier future. Let’s choose wisely and prioritize real wood flooring for the betterment of our clients and the environment.

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7 of Our Favorite Design Trends for 2024

Greetings! As we gear up for the exciting shifts in the world of interior design in 2024, we can't help but share a sneak peek into the anticipated trends that are set to make waves in the upcoming year. So, grab your coffee and let's dive into what's hot and happening for the year ahead.

1. Natural & Rustic Textures Take Center Stage
Get ready to embrace the beauty of nature within interiors! We're talking about the rising appreciation for rustic textures, including the charm of pitted timbers and the allure of hand-woven textiles. These earthy elements are all set to add a touch of warmth and character to your upcoming projects.
Consider reclaimed floors, ceiling beams, and mantels.

2. Sustainability in the Spotlight
With an increasing collective consciousness around the environmental impact of design choices, the spotlight is firmly on sustainability. From conscious selections of materials to a focus on eco-friendly processes, 2024 is the year to make sustainable interior design choices that leave a positive mark on our planet. Learn more about sustainability here.

3. Statement Floors Steal the Show
Step aside, walls—2024 is the year of the statement floors! Prepare to witness an array of intricate patterns and colors adorning the very foundation of your spaces. From custom-set stone and marble arrangements to textures that create a visual cosmos, let your floors be the hero of your design narrative.

4. Embrace the Essence of Natural Materials
Natural materials continue to reign supreme, effortlessly adding an organic touch to any space. Think graphic natural stones, marbles, and the timeless appeal of terracotta. The key? Partnering with skilled artisans to craft intricate textures and patterns (or with local businesses that can source them) and thus elevate your designs to new heights.

5. Mixing Metallics for an Eclectic Twist
Embrace the art of mixing and matching metallics, creating a personalized and eclectic vibe within your designs. From art frames to lamp bases, let the shimmering beauty of mixed metallics infuse a sense of allure and personality into every space. Remember, less is more when it comes to achieving a balanced and sophisticated look.

6. Dramatic Black Accents for Contrast
A touch of black can go a long way in adding depth and contrast to your designs. Experiment with black in various textures and finishes, from subtle bedding accents to intricate details that add a touch of sophistication. Let black be your secret weapon in creating a captivating visual balance within your projects.

7. Foster Uniqueness and Eclecticism
As we enter a new year, let's celebrate individuality and culture within our designs. Let your projects tell a story by incorporating unique silhouettes, vibrant colors, and patterns that resonate with your passions. From handcrafted items to souvenirs collected from global travels, infuse a touch of your clients' personalities into every corner of their spaces.

As you gear up for the exciting ventures that 2024 has in store, we hope these insights provide you with some inspiration to create stunning and timeless interiors for your esteemed clientele. Stay tuned for more updates and tips as we journey through the ever-evolving world of design!

Until next time,
The Boardwalk Hardwood Floors Team

Inspiration from Vogue-Living, Australia; Courtney Marquez, Living Spaces; and others.

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