In the diverse architectural landscape of Los Angeles from compact beach bungalows to modern urban condos the width of your flooring planks plays a crucial role in how a room is perceived. While narrow strips were the standard for decades, the shift toward Wide Plank flooring (7 inches and wider) has revolutionized interior design. At National Hardwood, we help clients understand how the right plank width can literally change the feel of their square footage.
1. Creating a Sense of Expansiveness
The most immediate benefit of wide planks is their ability to make a small room feel larger. Narrow strips (2 to 3 inches) create a high number of seams or joint lines. In a small space, these frequent lines can make the floor look busy and cluttered, which visually “shrinks” the room.
- The Wide Plank Effect: Because there are fewer seams, the eye travels across the floor without interruption. This creates a cleaner, more expansive canvas that opens up the room.
2. Reducing Visual “Noise”
Los Angeles modern design often leans toward minimalism. Wide planks contribute to this by reducing what designers call visual noise. When you have fewer planks, the natural beauty of the wood its grain, knots, and color variations can be appreciated as a whole rather than being chopped up into tiny sections.
- Consistency: Wide planks allow for longer, uninterrupted grain patterns, which adds a sense of flow and tranquility to a high-traffic home.
3. The Luxury Factor in Modern Architecture
Historically, wide planks were a sign of old-world craftsmanship, as they required larger, older trees to produce. Today, installing 7 inch or 9 inch planks from our French Galerie or Castle Flooring collections instantly elevates a standard room into a high end designer space.
4. Choosing the Right Width for Your Room Size
While wide planks are great for opening up small spaces, the scale must be right.
- 7-inch to 8-inch Planks: Ideal for standard bedrooms and hallways. They provide a modern update without overwhelming the furniture.
- 9-inch to 12-inch Planks: Perfect for open-concept living areas and Great Rooms. These wide planks act as a grounding element for large spaces.
5. Installation Tip: Direction Matters
In small LA homes, we often recommend installing wide planks parallel to the longest wall or toward the primary light source. This technique, combined with the wide width, draws the eye outward and maximizes the perception of depth and length.
Conclusion
Plank width is more than just a style preference; it is a powerful tool for spatial design. Whether you are trying to make a cozy bungalow feel like a grand estate or looking to simplify a modern loft, wide planks are the solution. Visit the National Hardwood showroom in Van Nuys to see our extensive collection of 7-inch, 9-inch, and custom-width planks in person.
