Hardwood Flooring Trends of 2026 for Your Des Moines Home

Hardwood is the gold standard, offering unmatched warmth and value. In 2026, it's all about enhancing its natural beauty.

 

For 20 years, Royal Flooring has been the trusted name in the Des Moines Metro for high quality products and installation. We know hardwood is an investment, and we treat it with the professionalism it deserves.

 

The three major trends defining hardwood in Central Iowa: Color, Size, and Finish.

 

3 Parts of Hardwood Flooring Style in 2026 

 

Trend 1: The Warmth Revival—Color and Stain

 

• The Shift: The cool, gray domination is over. Des Moines homeowners are craving warmth and a return to nature.
• The Trend: Mid-Tone Browns (honey, caramel, toffee), Natural/Light Washes (to let the wood grain shine), and Subtle Greige (a versatile bridge between gray and beige).
• The Species: White Oak remains popular for its receptive grain, but deeper, richer species like Walnut and Cherry are making a comeback.

 

Our knowledgeable team consults on the latest stain options to ensure your hardwood choice enhances your home's unique light and style, giving you a floor you'll love for decades.

 

Trend 2: The Expansive Look—Wider Planks and Patterns

 

• The Trend: Wide planks (7"+) and long lengths are essential. Fewer seams mean a more open, luxurious flow, particularly in open-concept homes.
• The Pattern Play: While wide planks dominate main living areas, sophisticated patterns like Herringbone and Chevron are hugely popular for creating custom, high-impact entries and dining rooms.

 

This is a job for experts. Wide planks need special acclimatization and precision installation to prevent gapping. Our Veteran-owned and operated team applies grit and professionalism to ensure a flawless, custom-quality result.

 

Trend 3: Low-Sheen Finishes and Texture

 

• The Trend: Matte, Satin, or Natural Oil finishes are replacing high-gloss.
• Why It Matters: Low-sheen finishes beautifully disguise everyday scuffs and scratches, making hardwood much more practical for busy households. They also give the floor a more organic, calming feel.
• Texture: Subtle wire-brushing is still popular, as it adds character and helps mask minor dents without the overdone look of heavy distressing.

 

Hardwood is a long-term investment. By using low-sheen finishes, we help homeowners protect that investment and take care of them through the finish line.

 

Explore Royal Flooring’s Selection of Hardwood Floors in Urbandale, IA

 

Hardwood in 2026 is warm, wide, and matte. Ready to invest in a timeless floor? Contact Royal Flooring today to see premium, trending hardwood samples and schedule a professional installation consultation. 

 

We service the areas of Des Moines, IA, Urbandale, IA, Waukee, IA, West Des Moines, IA, Okoboji, IA. Visit our Urbandale, IA flooring store today!