How Hardwood Plank Direction Affects Room Flow and Size
When Bellevue homeowners select a new hardwood floor, they often focus on species and color, but the installation direction is a powerful tool that can fundamentally alter the perceived size of a room. At Carpet To Go, we use interior design principles to help you optimize your space. By strategically choosing between a vertical, horizontal, or light-focused layout, you can turn a cramped hallway into a grand entrance or make a small living room feel like an expansive retreat.
Maximizing Length and Width
The most common rule of thumb is to lay planks parallel to the longest wall in the room. This creates long, unbroken lines that draw the eye across the space, making the room appear deeper than it actually is.
The Vertical Stretch
For narrow homes common in some Bellevue developments, laying boards perpendicular to the entrance can create a “stretching” effect. This trick is particularly effective in galleys and corridors, where the directional flow of the wood grain guides the guest naturally through the home, reducing the “boxed-in” feeling of tight quarters.
Following the Light
Another advanced design principle is laying planks toward the main light source, such as a large picture window or glass sliding doors. When the boards run parallel to the incoming sun, the light flows smoothly along the seams rather than hitting them at a right angle. This minimizes shadows between planks, creating a flatter, more uniform surface that looks cleaner and more modern.
Achieving a Cohesive Puget Sound Aesthetic
By coordinating the wood plank flooring direction with your home’s architectural focal points like a fireplace or a view of Lake Washington you create a “unified flow” that feels professionally designed. Our experts at Carpet To Go work with you to analyze your floor plan and lighting to ensure your new hardwood enhances every square foot of your property.
Directing Your Floor Home Design
Your home’s layout is unique, and our team is dedicated to finding the installation strategy that highlights its best features. Price and quality-conscious customers from all over Puget Sound have honored us, and continue to honor us, with their business and their trust. Contact us or visit us at our showroom location in Bellevue, WA. We will continue to adhere to our high standards of customer service by helping you select the appropriate flooring that will meet or beat your expectations.