3 Minimalist Flooring Style Ideas

There is nothing quite as stunning yet simple as a minimalist home. With clean lines, neutral colors and plenty of natural light, minimalist design is all about the idea of less is more. In addition to natural, well-crafted furniture and monochromatic wall paint, homeowners looking into minimalist design should install specific types of flooring to carry the aesthetic throughout the house.

Between hardwood, luxury vinyl and tile, you have a lot of options. By choosing the right colors, gloss levels and plank widths, you can curate the minimalist interior you are looking for. 

Explore our guide below to learn more about minimalist design and top flooring options.

What Is Minimalist Interior Design?

In the 20th century, minimalist architecture and design emerged as an alternative style. Traditionally, interior design was ornate and decorative. With the minimalist approach, all of that goes away. 

Minimalism is straightforward, using basic colors, functional furniture, simple art and natural textures. It's often associated with Scandinavian and Japanese interior designs, which prioritize casual and organic stylistic choices.

For people who prefer an airy, uncluttered space, minimalism is the perfect interior design choice. Some common features of minimalist design include:

• Simple lines and shapes.
• Earthy, monochromatic color palettes.
• Functional furniture made from natural materials.
• Sleek storage systems to avoid clutter.
• Negative space.
• Blank walls.
• Open layouts.
• Decorative accents.

One of the best aspects of minimalist design is that it looks great in any space. Whether your home already features modern architecture or you live in a centuries-old Victorian, you can achieve minimalism simply by paring down your space and embracing a natural, neutral feel.

3 Minimalist Flooring Ideas

A key part of tying your minimalist look together is your flooring. Similar to the colors you choose for your walls, your flooring should be neutral and clean. Instead of ceramic tiles with colorful patterns or dark hardwood floors with a lot of grain, consider simpler flooring in lighter shades with flat textures.

Here are three minimalist floor suggestions to explore:

1. Light Hardwood or Bamboo

Few materials introduce more warmth to a home than hardwood flooring, even when going for a minimalist interior design. 

This classic, durable flooring option comes in many modern colors and styles to complement your overall design choices. For example, you might look into low-gloss, wider-plank options in light hickory or white oak shades, or try stark black for contrast.

Similar to hardwood in appearance, bamboo is an eco-friendly, long-lasting flooring option that fits right into a minimalist house. With a tongue and groove installation, you can enjoy a seamless look that doesn't add any visual clutter. Look into bamboo flooring in lighter tones to brighten and open up your minimalist space.

2. Matte Luxury Vinyl

In areas where water and moisture buildup are a concern, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can offer a seamless, minimalist appearance with waterproofing properties. These engineered materials resemble natural hardwood flooring but are built in several structural layers with a highly detailed photographic print. As a result, you can achieve a classic look without the higher costs and maintenance needs of real wood.

For a minimalist design, try light-colored matte LVP in wider planks. For example, sunbleached hickory or oak creates a simple appearance that fits in perfectly with other natural materials, such as leather and cotton. A larger plank can help make the space look larger than it is, which helps create the perfect airy feel.

3. Neutral Ceramic Tile

A tastefully done ceramic tile can look stunning in your minimalist space. This kiln-dried flooring option is a classic choice for a reason — it's easy to maintain and stands the test of time. Ceramic tile is incredibly stylish and versatile, making it a great option for your minimalist kitchen, bathroom or laundry room.

Rather than laying small ceramic tiles with obvious grout lines, choose larger pieces you can arrange to create a flat, seamless look. One of the best color options for tile in a minimalist room is white, but you could also try similar neutral shades like black, gray or beige. Either way, you'll generally want to avoid colorful designs or distracting textures.

Simple Ways to Complement Your Minimalist Flooring

Choosing your new floors is only one aspect of your minimalist home interior. As you design your space, you will want to think about different ways to complement your flooring with furniture, art, rugs and accents to build a cohesive space. Check out a few design tips below:

• Add an eye-catching rug: Not everything in your minimalist home needs to be bare. An area rug can add plenty of visual interest and coziness without taking away from your minimalist style. Try a simple rug with a modern print or a plush, neutral option to pair with your flooring.
• Choose simple furniture: One of the best ways to achieve minimalism is to use simple yet functional furniture. Pieces like natural wood tables, leather or linen couches, and metal dining chairs look great in a minimalist space. These items also pair perfectly with hardwood, bamboo and luxury vinyl flooring.
• Incorporate plants: A few potted houseplants can bring everything together. Consider cacti, monstera, snake plants or succulents to bring the outdoors inside. Choose neutral-colored pots and plant stands to keep the plants off the floor and make them a focal point.
• Invest in hidden storage: Keep blankets, toys, pillows and other items off the ground with hidden storage in benches and baskets. Lining a wall with a system, potentially in the same color as your floors, can also help you maintain a clean, tidy look. At the same time, all your favorite things will be well within reach.

Shop Minimalist Flooring Options From Carpet & Tile Mart

Carpet & Tile Mart offers dozens of high-quality flooring choices to help you find the best option for your interior design style. Whether you're opting for a minimalist, modern look or prefer a traditional feel, you can find exactly what you need in our affordable selection of flooring. Choose from carpet, tile, laminate, vinyl and hardwood for long-lasting options that suit your lifestyle and design preferences.

When you work with us, we will guide you through the flooring selection process and provide expert tips to help you make a confident decision. Plus, you can enjoy our simple satisfaction guarantee. If you're unhappy with your new flooring within 30 days, our team will replace it with installation and removal fees.

Ready to bring your minimalist interior design to life with new flooring? Explore our options today, and find a Carpet & Tile Mart near you!