Seen in architecture, advertising, furniture, and possibly even your own home, Mid Century Modern design remains the hottest and hardest to pin down of today’s housing aesthetics. But you know it when you see it. The style exploded in popularity in the post-WWII years as veterans and their families settled into newly constructed suburbs, but the term generally applies to homes built as early as 1933 through 1965, though purists argue that the movement’s highlight is 1947–1957.

Using simple materials, bold lines, spacious floorplans, and bountiful natural light, these homes were perfect for growing families with their brand-new black-and-white television sets. Today, Mid Century Modern homes are prime real estate, though the original hardwood flooring is often due to be replaced after a generation of refinishing has left planks weathered and bare. Luckily the open floor plan in Mid Century homes gives homeowners and interior designers an enormous blank canvas to fill with exciting and stylish flooring options. Here are a few of our favorite options for Mid Century Modern floors.

Hardwood

A well-maintained hardwood floor can last between 60-100 years, meaning the hardwood in many Mid Century Modern homes is nearing its expiration date. So, what’s better than hardwood? More hardwood. Though other materials are used in later Mid Century Modern homes, hardwood floors, then and now, are unbeatable for longevity, durability, style, and value. If you choose hardwood, stick with darker wood and a simple grain pattern so your furniture can be the statement piece. If you’re after the look of hardwood but need additional water-resistance (or you’re on a budget), laminate flooring is a solid choice.

Ceramic Tile

Later in the period, Mid Century Modern homes used ceramic tile to craft bold patterns with striking linework to contrast with the simple lines found elsewhere. Naturally, ceramic tile is an ideal choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but it can also brighten up a living room or bedroom paired up with your choice of rug. Tile’s main drawback is that it’s less durable than other materials, so you wouldn’t want to keep your bowling ball collection on it, but it offers a waterproof and fashion-forward look you can’t find anywhere else.

Concrete

In homes with radiant heat floors, concrete’s conductive abilities make it an easy choice for comfort and warmth. And thanks to the variety of stains on the market, concrete no longer comes in just boring old gray. Experiment with subtle color to coordinate with the rest of your home, layer a rug on top, or keep it industrial. No matter how your pour your concrete, it’s one of the most durable and low-maintenance flooring options.

Carpet

Since Mid Century Modern homes usually have neutral walls, a brightly colored or patterned carpet is a simple way to inject your décor with a splash of color without going too far over the top. Multicolored carpet tiles are one of our favorite ways to play with carpet for a unique and customizable look. Check out our blog post about patterned flooring ideas for more inspiration.

Does your Mid Century Modern home need new floors? Give us a call today at (888) SHOP-123 to discuss hardwood, carpet, tile, concrete, slate, and more options to put a spring in your step and increase your property value.