2026 Trends

The beauty of balance: natural textures and sustainable design define 2026 floors

Brussels, 12 December 2025 – The laminate flooring industry in 2026 continues to combine design sophistication with environmental responsibility. As customers demand authenticity, durability, and green production, EPLF members are responding by combining natural aesthetics with technical performance. Realistic wood designs, calming colour palettes and matte finishes continue to shape the refined and practical style of laminate flooring.

Nature at home
In 2026, laminate flooring styles will continue to reflect consumers’ growing preference for calm, balanced interiors inspired by nature. Oak remains the dominant design, complemented by warmer and more neutral shades such as greige, a refined mix of grey and beige, as well as honey, sand, smoked and natural wood tones. Demand for white and traditional grey continues to decrease, giving way to more inviting natural hues.
Beyond oak, other wood species such as Chestnut and Acacia are gaining attention for their distinctive character and warmth. Matte and ultra matte finishes enhance the authenticity of these designs, providing a realistic wood feel that blurs the line between laminate and real timber flooring. Meanwhile, marble and stone effects are becoming increasingly popular for their textured appearance and refined sophistication, made possible by advances in digital printing technology. Together, these trends capture the minimalist, light Scandinavian-inspired flair shaping modern interiors.

From planks to patterns
The demand for long and wide planks continues to grow, creating open and cohesive spaces that elevate contemporary interiors. These formats offer a seamless, high-end look while classic plank dimensions remain a strong and reliable choice in the market. Design-conscious consumers are also embracing geometric installations such as herringbone and chevron layouts for their distinctive and sophisticated appeal. High gloss surfaces maintain their allure, providing elegant reflections and a refined contrast to matte and ultra matte finishes, proving that laminate successfully blends classic style with modern minimalism.

Built to last
The evolution of laminate flooring is not just about aesthetics. Water, scratch, and stain resistance are now standard features in most high-quality collections, ensuring long-lasting performance in everyday use. Advanced click systems make installation faster and easier, while improved underlay solutions and optional integrated sound insulation enhance both comfort and functionality. Anti-fingerprint technologies are also being incorporated to maintain a clean and refined appearance over time. These advancements make laminate an ideal choice for diverse environments, including family homes, offices, and hospitality spaces.

Green by design
Laminate is already among the most sustainable flooring options, thanks to its core made from one of the most renewable materials: wood. Sustainability remains at the heart of laminate innovation. EPLF members are increasingly using post-consumer recycled content, investing in circular production processes and improving energy efficiency. The focus on resource reduction, product longevity and recyclability confirms laminate flooring’s role as a responsible and future-oriented material. Eco-design principles, such as resource efficiency, recycled content, and design for longevity, are shaping new collections that combine style and sustainability without compromise.

Affordable quality in a changing market
In a competitive flooring market, laminate leads the way by combining affordability, durability and sustainable performance. Laminate remains a strong choice for consumers thanks to its authentic look, European manufacturing standards, and reliable performance. With advances in surface technology and a renewed focus on eco-design, 2026 promises to be a year where laminate flooring proves once again that style and sustainability go hand in hand.

As we step into 2026, EPLF members remain committed to shaping the future of interior design through innovation, craftsmanship and responsibility, ensuring laminate flooring continues to inspire confidence, creativity and care for the planet.