When designing model home interiors, one of my top considerations is flooring. These homes will soon welcome real families, and I always keep those future residents in mind when selecting materials for each space.

Designing with purpose

In pre-construction communities, the flooring is often described in the schedule of finishes included in the purchase agreement. However, most builders offer a wide range of options and upgrades for homebuyers to personalize their new home. In this way, model home designers become stand-ins for the future homeowner, making purposeful choices that reflect both style and function.

Once I’ve established the design theme, flooring and kitchen cabinetry are next. Like many, I love the warmth and natural beauty of hardwood. I often select flooring that complements the colour and grain of the kitchen cabinetry. In open-concept layouts, matching the flooring stain to the staircase creates a seamless visual flow, something you’ll see in our Kylemore model homes.

A smart solution for ‘wet’ areas

Hardwood in the kitchen is a popular look, but moisture can be a concern. One design trick I’ve used successfully is to inset a “carpet” of tile between the island (with sink and dishwasher) and the cooktop. From the front, the tile is hidden, maintaining the continuity of the hardwood while adding durability in high-use areas.

Practical surfaces with timeless appeal

Throughout the home, ceramic, porcelain tile and vinyl are my go-to alternatives. In bathrooms, I prefer textured, non-slip tiles underfoot while reserving polished finishes for walls and shower enclosures. Often, tile suppliers offer multiple finishes with the same design, allowing for a cohesive look while reducing slip factors.

In one of our featured laundry rooms, I selected a two-by-eight-in. ceramic tile with an aged, textured finish and had it laid in a herringbone pattern. The result? A subtle nod to the charm of a heritage home.

Vinyl’s stylish comeback

Vinyl flooring has seen significant innovation over the past two decades. I often choose it as a smart, stylish option for lower levels and high-traffic areas. With realistic wood textures and impressive durability, it’s a budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t sacrifice style and can work well in many areas of the home.

Flooring plays an important role in how a home looks, feels and functions. From creating visual flow in open-concept spaces to ensuring durability in high-use areas, every choice is made with both design integrity and real-life living in mind. Whether it’s hardwood for warmth, tile for texture or vinyl for resilience, the right flooring enhances the design while supporting the way families really live.

Coming up next… Let there be light

In my next column, I’ll be exploring how lighting choices shape the mood, flow and functionality of every room.