Natural wood flooring is an obvious choice in today’s current climate of austerity; not only because of its obvious aesthetic appearance, but those who invest in quality wood flooring, do so with the knowledge that they have something that will last - not just another 10 or 15 years - but perhaps a lifetime or more.
With the recent announcement from Chancellor George Osborne showing that there is more austerity to come, the trend in the UK to make use of what you have and valuing quality over quantity is set to continue. So there will always be a demand for natural wood flooring and if anything the demand is on the rise.
Here we shall look at how natural wood flooring reflects social and psychological trends in the current UK climate of austerity.
Natural Wood Flooring - Click here to find out more about our solid wood flooring products
Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability
Installing cheap or fashionable flooring only to rip it out again in a few years time does not sit well with many homeowners in the current climate. If you have moved into a home that has an existing solid wood floor and intend to keep it that way, or if you are having new natural wood flooring installed, which is likely to last longer than you are - this is more economical in the long run. The current trend is for people to make their choice not just on aesthetics, but also on long term value, which quality wood flooring has always delivered.
Whether you have inherited natural wood flooring from a previous occupier, or are having a new floor installed, solid wood flooring is not all about the longevity of the product, but it is also good for your conscience too. Wood is one of the most sustainable products there is, so by choosing quality wood flooring this is benefiting the environment and not draining the world of its resources. Naturally Wood are certified by both the Forest Stewardship Council and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. Please contact us to find out more about FSC and PEFC products.
Not only this, but looking after solid wood flooring, and restoring an old, well-loved floor, creates a sense of ‘stewardship’ and gives you the knowledge that you are maintaining something for future generations.
Investing In Quality
Ironically, the more austere the times, the more people will value quality over quantity - even if they have to pay more for it. For instance, in the 1940’s when fabric was rationed, you would always choose the best material you could possibly afford - because a single suit would have to last - and it would have to be suitable for many different occasions. Similarly, investing in solar panels for the home is for future gain as it brings with it the prospect of more manageable fuel bills, as well as being economically sound. Quality wood flooring offers a similar balance of worth and savings as once you have had a new floor installed, it will last for the duration and requires minimal maintenance and upkeep.
Wood Flooring Suits All
There is something very unrestricted and egalitarian about natural wood flooring. The type of wood or the finish chosen may give different effects but quality wood flooring can look just as good in a one-bedroom studio flat as in a historic country setting. The beauty of wood is that it comes in so many different shades and variations - red tints, yellow tints, flecks of gold, knotted appearance etc - so it can suit all sorts of interiors from contemporary, minimalist settings to rustic farmhouses.
If you are unsure of which wood type to choose, or how it will look in your home or office, our team of experts at Naturally Wood will be able to talk through the various options with you. We also have a great sample service, so you can see at first-hand how the finished floor will look.
The Honesty of Wood
In an uncertain economic climate, there is a yearning to surround ourselves with materials and designs that are authentic and which we can depend upon. While carpet and laminate can hide a multitude of imperfections, wood has always been an ‘honest’ material - as what you see is what you get.
This is one reason why wide plank flooring is so popular, because it reveals the true beauty of the wood to its full effect - as do our Bolefloor products, with each board following the natural growth of the tree (as opposed to straight, parallel boards). Of course, our Legacy Antique Panels, constructed by hand from reclaimed wood, create a naturally aged, authentic floor that is simply stunning. Similarly, distressed solid wood flooring is also a popular choice in today’s climate, as it contributes to an authentic look.
About Naturally Wood
Naturally Wood supply and install a full range of quality wood flooring and also provide restoration services throughout London, Kent, Hertfordshire and East Anglia.
Natural Wood Flooring - Click here to find out more about our solid wood flooring products
