HARDWORKING MATERIALS THAT STAND UP UNDERFOOT.

Flooring lays the groundwork for every room in your home. And while carpet, hardwood and vinyl are often popular choices, your options aren’t limited to that trio.

Why not consider dressing up a room with one of the following eco-friendly choices? They’ll add high impact to a space, while leaving less of an impact on the environment. (Keep in mind that manufacturing and shipping do add to your carbon footprint, no matter how renewable or sustainable a material is.)

CORK

Cork flooring is made from the bark of the cork oak tree, which is native to the western Mediterranean and northern Africa. The bark regenerates after harvesting, which means it can be sustainably harvested from the same tree multiple times, making cork a renewable option.

Cork floors are spongy and cushiony when compressed, so they’re easier on your feet and back if you’re standing a lot. They’re available in a variety of colors and grain patterns, for a range of design possibilities.

  • In the kitchen: brighten lights while prepping your signature dish, then lower them to create ambiance for a quiet dinner for two.
  • In the living room: dim lights for binging your favorite series or hanging out with friends; brighten them for game night.
  • In the nursery or kid’s room: no need to turn lights full-on for those middle-of-the-night diaper changes or monster-chasing; dim lights are soothing for your little one as well as you.
  • In the bathroom: ease into your morning routine with dim light, then brighten the lights as needed for shaving or applying makeup; conversely, end your day with soft light and a soothing soak in the tub.
  • In the bedroom: lower lights at night to help you wind down before you go to sleep.

Cork Flooring

Bamboo Flooring

BAMBOO

Fast growing, sustainable and extremely durable, bamboo is available as solid strand woven or engineered strand woven planks. Bamboo has a contemporary feel and is easy to clean with a mop and a mild solution. Take note that bamboo is susceptible to scratching, and it’s not waterproof, so avoid using it in bathrooms.

If you’re interested in bamboo flooring, look for bamboo that is Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified; the FSC is an international nonprofit that promotes responsible forest management.

LINOLEUM

Linoleum is manufactured from renewable materials, including linseed oil and tree resins, then mounted on a jute or canvas backing. Sometimes confused with vinyl, linoleum is all natural, as opposed to vinyl, which is synthetic.

Linoleum has come a long way since its inception. You’ll find linoleum in many different colors and patterns; the color goes all the way through to the backing, so scratches don’t readily show. It’s easy to maintain with water and a mild cleaner and it’s extremely durable.

Linoleum Flooring