What is Kitchen Flooring in 2019? (5 Trends You Can’t Miss!)
Comfort Starts with the Floor: Why Kitchen Flooring Matters to Me
I’ve always thought comfort in a home starts from the ground up. Whenever I step into a kitchen, the floor is one of the first things I notice—even before the countertops or appliances. It’s where we stand for long stretches cooking, chatting, or just hanging out with family and friends. Over the years, working hands-on with different flooring materials, I’ve seen how the right kitchen floor can completely change the feel of this essential space.
For me, comfort isn’t just about how soft or warm the floor feels—it’s about how it supports everything that happens in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing meals, cleaning up messes, or simply catching up over coffee, your kitchen floor plays a big role in making those moments enjoyable.
I remember installing floors in a family home where the mom spent hours baking with her kids. She told me how tired her feet used to get on their old tile. After switching to cushioned vinyl planks, she said cooking felt less like a chore. That kind of feedback sticks with me because it shows how comfort can be both physical and emotional.
In 2019, kitchen flooring trends caught my attention because they balanced style and practicality so well. I want to share those trends with you – the ones I think are most worth knowing about—especially if you’re thinking about updating your kitchen floor or planning a new build.
What Is Kitchen Flooring?
At its core, kitchen flooring is the material that covers the floor surface in kitchens. But it’s much more than just a layer beneath your feet. Kitchen flooring has to withstand heavy foot traffic, resist moisture and stains, and be easy to clean. Plus, it needs to complement your kitchen’s style and layout.
When I talk about kitchen flooring, I’m thinking about more than just looks. It’s about durability, maintenance, safety, and comfort. For example, a glossy marble floor might look stunning but could be slippery when wet—something you definitely want to avoid in a busy kitchen.
The right kitchen flooring also influences how much time and money you spend on upkeep. Some materials demand regular sealing or special cleaners; others are nearly maintenance-free. And some provide natural warmth underfoot, while others can feel cold and hard.
My experience has taught me that people often overlook how much the kitchen floor impacts their daily life until they change it. That’s why understanding what kitchen flooring entails—and what options are available—is crucial before making a choice that will last for years.
2019 Kitchen Flooring Trends You Can’t Miss
Let me break down the top five kitchen flooring trends from 2019 that made waves and why they stood out to me as both a contractor and someone who loves a comfortable home.
1. Waterproof Vinyl Planks: The Practical Winner
Waterproof vinyl plank flooring became one of the biggest hits in 2019—and it makes total sense why.
Why this trend caught on: Kitchens are notorious for spills, splashes, and accidents involving water. Traditional hardwood floors can warp and stain if exposed to moisture too often. Vinyl planks offer the look of wood or stone but with waterproof technology that keeps them safe from damage.
I vividly remember one installation where a family with two toddlers desperately needed a floor that could handle spills without immediate damage. Vinyl planks were perfect: they looked like real wood but had zero worries about water marks or swelling.
Technical details: Many vinyl planks are made from luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) materials that include multiple layers—wear layers for protection, printed layers for design, and waterproof cores that stop moisture penetration.
Data point: According to a 2019 report by Freedonia Group, vinyl flooring sales increased by roughly 20% nationwide, largely driven by demand in kitchens and bathrooms. Waterproof variants accounted for most of this growth.
Installation ease: Vinyl planks can also be installed relatively quickly with either click-lock systems or glue-down methods. This speed saves homeowners time and money compared to tile or hardwood installations.
Personal insight: I’ve noticed many DIYers gravitate towards vinyl because it combines beauty and functionality without requiring professional tools for installation. But I always advise checking subfloor conditions carefully before laying vinyl—uneven floors can cause issues down the road.
2. Large Format Porcelain Tiles: Sleek and Spacious
Porcelain tiles in larger sizes—think 24×24 inches or bigger—were all over kitchens last year.
Why large tiles? They give kitchens an open, airy feel with fewer grout lines breaking up the surface. Less grout means less cleaning, which is a huge plus in busy homes.
Porcelain is also incredibly hard and dense—qualities that make it resistant to scratches and stains. It doesn’t absorb water easily, which is key for kitchens prone to spills.
Technical note: Porcelain’s hardness rating on the Mohs scale is approximately 7—harder than ceramic tiles—so it stands up well against dropped utensils or heavy foot traffic.
Case study: One client of mine chose large-format porcelain tiles with a matte finish for their urban loft kitchen. The finish helped reduce glare from overhead lights while providing a smooth texture that wasn’t slippery at all. They loved how spacious their kitchen felt after installation.
Additional benefit: Porcelain tiles come in many styles—from solid colors to stone-look prints that add natural charm without the maintenance headaches of real stone.
Pricing insight: While porcelain tiles tend to be pricier than vinyl or ceramic options—typically $5-$15 per square foot—their durability often justifies the cost over the long term. Labor costs can also be higher due to careful cutting and fitting required for large tiles.
3. Warm Tones in Hardwood: Classic but Updated
Hardwood floors have been a staple in kitchens forever—but in 2019, warmer tones made a strong comeback after years dominated by cool grays and bleached finishes.
Warm woods like walnut, cherry, and hickory brought back comforting hues that added life to kitchens without looking dated.
Why warm tones? They create inviting spaces that feel cozy yet stylish—perfect for kitchens meant as gathering spots for families.
Technical fact: Engineered hardwoods became increasingly favored because they feature thicker wear layers than before and offer better resistance to moisture compared to solid hardwoods—ideal for kitchens where spills happen often.
Industry survey: Data from the Hardwood Floors Association showed that around 42% of hardwood buyers preferred mid-tone warm finishes in 2019, citing their versatility across traditional and contemporary designs.
Personal story: I suggested a warm walnut engineered hardwood floor for a client renovating their farmhouse-style kitchen. The rich amber tones complemented reclaimed wood cabinetry perfectly and added warmth underfoot during cold winter months.
Maintenance tip: Hardwood requires regular sweeping and occasional refinishing every few years to keep its shine, but many people find this trade-off worth it for natural beauty.
4. Patterned Cement Tiles: Bold Looks for Small Areas
Not everyone wants subtle floors—some want their kitchen floors to make an artistic statement. That’s where patterned cement tiles came into play in 2019.
These tiles feature vibrant colors and intricate designs that bring character to small spaces like breakfast nooks or island surrounds.
Why cement tiles? They’re handmade or machine-pressed from cement mixes with pigments for color, then sealed for durability. They’re tough but need proper sealing to avoid stains—a step some overlook but professionals like me never skip.
Unique insight: Cement tiles can withstand heavy foot traffic but are softer than porcelain, so they feel more comfortable underfoot while still being visually striking.
Example project: I installed patterned cement tiles in a trendy café’s kitchen area where owners wanted something unique yet functional. It became a conversation piece while handling daily wear well.
Cost note: Cement tiles can be more expensive ($10-$20 per square foot) than other flooring types due to labor-intensive production and installation processes but add undeniable charm.
5. Eco-Friendly Bamboo: Sustainability Meets Style
By 2019, sustainability was more than a buzzword—it influenced many homeowners’ choices—including flooring.
Bamboo floors gained traction as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwoods because bamboo grows faster than most trees, making it renewable.
Technical details: Strand-woven bamboo is especially hard—often harder than oak—and resists dents and scratches well in kitchens.
Environmental benefits: Bamboo cultivation uses less water and pesticides compared to hardwood trees, making it better for the planet.
Market trend: According to the U.S. Green Building Council’s data from 2019, demand for sustainable flooring options like bamboo increased by around 25% over two years.
Personal experience: I recommended bamboo flooring to a couple who wanted hardwood looks but cared deeply about environmental impact. They were thrilled with its performance after two years of use in their busy kitchen.
Bonus Trend Insight: Cork Flooring’s Quiet Rise
Though not as widespread as other trends in 2019, cork flooring deserves an honorable mention for kitchens focused on comfort and sustainability.
Cork feels soft underfoot due to its cellular structure—a big plus if you stand long hours cooking. It’s also naturally antimicrobial and slip-resistant.
I’ve installed cork floors in kitchens where clients prioritized comfort over hardness. Cork does require sealing to protect against water damage but offers warmth unmatched by tile or wood.
Deeper Dive: How These Floors Perform Day-to-Day
Let me share some observations from real-life use cases after installing these popular floors:
- Vinyl Planks: In homes with pets and kids, vinyl’s waterproof nature prevented damage from wet paws or spilled juice juice boxes. The floors cleaned easily with just soap and water.
- Porcelain Tiles: These held up well against heavy cookware drops without chipping while adding sleek modern vibes even in small kitchens.
- Warm Hardwood: The warmth made cooking evenings feel cozy; however, occasional refinishing was needed after several years due to scratches.
- Patterned Cement Tiles: Visually stunning but required frequent resealing to keep grout lines clean and colors vibrant.
- Bamboo: Durable underfoot with less concern over warping than traditional hardwoods; great choice for eco-conscious families.
- Cork (Bonus): Best for comfort around standing tasks but more sensitive to water damage unless well-sealed.
What Does Data Tell Us About Kitchen Flooring Choices?
Looking at recent industry data helps understand why these trends took hold:
- Waterproof vinyl accounted for nearly 30% of all new residential kitchen floor installations in 2019, reflecting homeowner demand for durability.
- Porcelain tile installations grew by 15%, notably in urban areas prioritizing sleek aesthetics.
- Hardwood floors held steady at about 25% market share, with engineered products leading due to moisture resistance.
- Sustainable options like bamboo saw a steady rise but remained niche at around 5% market share.
- Patterned cement tiles were mostly used as accents but gained popularity among younger homeowners seeking individuality.
This data matches what I’ve seen firsthand working across various projects—from family homes to trendy cafés.
Choosing Right: What Should You Ask Yourself?
I always encourage clients to think carefully about:
- How much time do you spend standing in your kitchen?
- Are spills frequent? Do you have kids or pets?
- What’s your budget for materials and installation?
- How much maintenance are you willing to do?
- What style fits your kitchen’s overall design?
Answering these questions helps narrow down choices beyond mere trends toward what truly fits your lifestyle.
Installation Tips From My Experience
Installation quality makes or breaks any kitchen floor project:
- For vinyl planks: Ensure subfloor is level and clean; uneven surfaces cause buckling.
- Porcelain tiles: Hire pros experienced with cutting large-format tiles accurately.
- Hardwood: Acclimate wood before installation to avoid expansion issues.
- Cement tiles: Always seal thoroughly after grouting.
- Bamboo: Choose strand-woven types for high durability.
- Cork: Use water-resistant sealants regularly.
Maintenance Advice That Works
Keeping your kitchen floor looking great means regular care:
- Sweep daily to remove grit that scratches surfaces.
- Use manufacturer-recommended cleaners—not harsh chemicals.
- Wipe spills immediately on hardwood or bamboo.
- Reseal grout lines on tile every few years.
- Avoid dragging heavy furniture across floors; use felt pads.
Final Thoughts
Kitchen flooring isn’t just about style—it’s about creating a space where you feel comfortable every day while handling real-life demands like spills, traffic, and cooking messes. The 2019 trends reflect this balance between beauty and practicality beautifully.
I hope sharing my personal experiences alongside data gives you a clearer picture of what might work best for your kitchen. Feel free to reach out if you want tailored advice or help choosing materials that suit your needs perfectly!
So what do you think? Are you leaning towards waterproof vinyl plank convenience or warm hardwood charm? Maybe bold patterned tiles catch your eye? Whatever your choice, your kitchen floor can become one of your favorite parts of home life.
