A young couple in Worthington had just welcomed their first baby. The nursery was perfect, but the old carpet in the living room had seen one too many bottle leaks and coffee mishaps. That’s when they called Tessa, a local interior designer known for blending comfort with chic modern looks.
“I remember walking into that house and seeing their faces,” Tessa recalls. “They wanted a change—not just in material, but in how the space felt.”
And like many homes in Columbus, Ohio, the answer was right beneath their feet.
“Flooring isn’t just a surface. It’s the foundation of a room’s personality.”
– Tessa V., Columbus-based interior designer
In this post, we talk to Columbus’s top designers to learn what flooring styles they love and why. From the rich tones of hardwood flooring in Columbus, Ohio to the practicality of vinyl flooring glue adhesive options, this is your all-access guide to what’s hot (and timeless) in home flooring today.
Why Flooring Matters More Than You Think
Before we get into the favorite picks, let’s talk about why flooring is so important.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 54% of home buyers are willing to pay more for hardwood flooring.¹ That’s a serious ROI.
And if you think vinyl is outdated, think again. A recent Flooring America report shows that vinyl plank flooring is one of the fastest-growing trends, especially in family homes and rentals, with a 185% increase in sales over five years.²
Whether you’re renovating your forever home or flipping a property in German Village, the right flooring choice makes a huge difference.
1. Hardwood Elegance: A Columbus Classic
Why Columbus Designers Still Love Hardwood
“I will always be a sucker for a good oak floor,” says Michael D., who designs luxury homes in Bexley. “It’s like a fine wine—it ages well, tells a story, and brings warmth you just can’t fake.”
Hardwood is a go-to for many Columbus homes, especially in established neighborhoods where character is key.
Pro Tip:
“Refinishing hardwood floors instead of replacing them can save you 30–50% of the cost and maintain the home’s original charm.”
Popular Hardwood Looks in Columbus
✅ White Oak in a Matte Finish – Sleek, modern, and forgiving with pets.
✅ Walnut Plank Flooring – Rich and bold; perfect for formal living areas.
✅ Distressed Reclaimed Wood – A nod to Columbus’s industrial history and green living.
Want to explore top local suppliers? Check out this guide to hardwood flooring in Columbus, Ohio for style options and installation services.
2. Vinyl Flooring: Modern, Budget-Friendly, and Surprisingly Chic
When you hear vinyl, you might think of the peel-and-stick tiles from the ’80s. But today’s vinyl is next-level.
Why Vinyl Is a Designer’s Secret Weapon
“It’s practical, budget-friendly, and honestly, some designs are stunning,” says Lara K., a designer who specializes in family and rental homes on the westside of Columbus. Many homeowners opt for Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)—both mimic the look of wood or stone without the cost or upkeep. And when installed with a reliable adhesive made specifically for vinyl flooring, these options can last for years with minimal maintenance.
Stat:
According to Statista, vinyl flooring accounts for over 22% of the global flooring market as of 2023.
Best Vinyl Looks for Columbus Homes
🏡 Wood-Look LVP with Wide Planks – Ideal for open-concept spaces.
🎨 Patterned LVT – Great for mudrooms or kitchens needing personality.
💦 Waterproof Vinyl with Textured Grip – Perfect for basements and bathrooms.
“When installed properly with a high-quality vinyl flooring glue adhesive, LVP can last 15–20 years,” Lara explains.
3. Trending: Mixed Material Magic
Columbus designers are getting bold with flooring transitions and multi-texture rooms.
Examples of Creative Combos:
- Tile to Wood Transitions in kitchens to subtly divide zones
- Area Rugs Over Vinyl Plank for texture layering
- Concrete with Inlays in lofts or modern industrial spaces
Michael shares a project where he combined walnut hardwood in the main living area with hexagonal tile in the kitchen. “The shift in texture added drama without changing the color palette. It was a hit.”
4. Eco-Friendly Flooring: For the Conscious Homeowner
Today’s Columbus homeowner isn’t just about style—they care about sustainability.
Tessa is seeing more requests for:
🌱 Bamboo Flooring – Fast-growing and durable
🌾 Cork Flooring – Naturally antimicrobial and comfy underfoot
♻️ Reclaimed Wood – Rustic and eco-conscious
Fact:
Bamboo can grow up to 3 feet in 24 hours, making it one of the most sustainable flooring materials.
5. Designer Pet Peeves: What to Avoid
We asked our designers what flooring mistakes they see most often. Here’s what they said:
❌ Using the same flooring everywhere: “Different rooms serve different functions—let them express that.”
❌ Cheap adhesives for vinyl installs: “Bad glue means bubbles, lifting edges, and an expensive do-over,” warns Lara. She recommends sticking with trusted vinyl flooring glue adhesive brands for lasting results.
❌ Ignoring natural light: “Some wood tones look completely different under sunlight. Always test a swatch in the room before committing.”
6. Where to Shop Local in Columbus
While big-box stores have their perks, designers often turn to local suppliers for quality and personalized service. Some favorites:
🪵 Panel Town & Floors – Known for hardwood selection
🧰 America’s Floor Source – A go-to for vinyl and glue adhesives
🏡 Rite Rug Flooring – Offers in-home consultations across Columbus
🌿 Eco-Floors Ohio – Specializes in sustainable materials
“Working with local vendors means better accountability and quicker service. Plus, you’re supporting the Columbus economy.”
– Michael D.
7. Final Tips for Homeowners Choosing Flooring
Choosing the right flooring can feel overwhelming, but here’s what the pros recommend:
🎯 Make a Mood Board
Collect textures, colors, and inspo pics before shopping.
🧪 Always Test Samples at Home
Lighting and wall color can change how a flooring sample looks.
💸 Set a Realistic Budget
Don’t forget to include underlayment, adhesive (like vinyl flooring glue adhesive), and labor in your estimate.
👣 Think Long-Term
“Design for life—not just for Instagram,” says Tessa. “If you have pets or kids, plan accordingly.”
Closing Thoughts: Your Floors, Your Story
The right flooring can change everything.
Whether it’s the inviting charm of real wood floors in Columbus homes or the waterproof reliability of a vinyl floor installed with quality glue adhesive, your choice shapes how your home feels—day after day.
And as our designers reminded us, flooring isn’t just a design choice. It’s a lifestyle statement.
“You walk on it every single day. Make it something that feels like you.”
– Lara K.
FAQs
1. What’s the most durable type of flooring for Columbus homes with kids and pets?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) with a strong vinyl flooring glue adhesive is ideal for durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance.
2. Is hardwood flooring worth the investment in Columbus, Ohio?
Yes! Homes with hardwood flooring in Columbus, Ohio tend to sell faster and at higher prices. It’s a timeless investment.
3. Can I mix hardwood and vinyl in the same home?
Absolutely. Many designers use transitions or area rugs to blend materials creatively across spaces.
4. How do I maintain my hardwood floors in Ohio’s changing climate?
Use a humidifier in winter and dry mopping to prevent warping. Seasonal maintenance helps preserve the wood’s integrity.
5. What kind of glue should I use for vinyl flooring?
Choose a high-quality, low-VOC vinyl flooring glue adhesive specifically made for LVP or LVT. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.