Hardwood floors are a classic choice for commercial spaces. They’re durable, stylish, and can add warmth to any business setting. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? More importantly, if your space already has hardwood floors, how do you make sure new flooring matches seamlessly? Whether you’re renovating an office, updating a hotel lobby, or designing a retail store, knowing the different hardwood floors available and how to match hardwood floors can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break it all down—covering wood types, finishes, and smart ways to create a smooth, cohesive look across your space.

Different Types of Hardwood Floors for Commercial Spaces

Hardwood floors are a popular choice for commercial properties because they add warmth, sophistication, and durability. However, not all hardwood floors are the same. When selecting the right flooring for your space, there are a few key factors to consider:

  • Foot Traffic – Will the floor need to withstand heavy foot traffic, such as in a retail store or restaurant? Or will it be in a lower-traffic area, like a private office?
  • Aesthetic Goals – Are you looking for a sleek, modern style or something more rustic and textured?
  • Maintenance Needs – Some hardwood floors require more upkeep than others. How much time and effort are you willing to invest in care and maintenance?
  • Moisture Resistance – Will the floor be installed in a space where moisture is a concern, such as a restaurant or hotel lobby?

By considering these factors, you can choose the best hardwood flooring for your commercial space. Now, let’s break down the different types of hardwood floors and what makes each one unique.

1. Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood: What’s the Difference?

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with solid hardwood or engineered hardwood. Both options have their advantages, depending on your space and needs.

Solid Hardwood

  • Made from a single, solid piece of wood.
  • Can last for decades (even centuries) when properly maintained.
  • Can be sanded and refinished multiple times to restore its original appearance.
  • Best for upscale offices, boutique retail stores, and other spaces where a traditional hardwood look is desired.
  • Not ideal for areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations, as it can expand and contract.

Engineered Hardwood

  • Has a real wood veneer on top with a plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF) core.
  • More resistant to moisture and temperature changes than solid hardwood.
  • A great choice for restaurants, hotels, and busy retail spaces where durability is key.
  • Can be sanded and refinished (depending on the thickness of the veneer), but not as many times as solid hardwood.
  • Often comes in a wider range of styles and finishes.

Which one should you choose?

  • If you’re looking for a high-end, long-lasting floor that can be refinished many times, solid hardwood is the way to go—especially in spaces with controlled humidity.
  • If your commercial space sees a lot of traffic, is in a humid climate, or needs a flooring option that is stable and durable, engineered hardwood is the better choice.

2. Popular Hardwood Species: Finding the Right Fit

Different types of hardwood have unique colors, grain patterns, and durability levels. The species you choose can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space.

Oak – Classic and Durable

  • One of the most popular choices for hardwood flooring.
  • Has a strong, visible grain that adds character.
  • Available in red oak (warm tones) or white oak (cooler tones).
  • Extremely durable and stands up well to foot traffic.
  • Ideal for offices, retail stores, and common areas in commercial buildings.

Maple – Light and Modern

  • Has a light, natural color with a subtle grain pattern.
  • Works well in modern and minimalist spaces.
  • Extremely hard and durable—often used in gyms, basketball courts, and performance spaces.
  • A great option for brightening up a space without being too bold.

Walnut – Sophisticated and Rich

  • Dark brown with deep, luxurious tones.
  • Perfect for executive offices, boardrooms, and high-end hotels.
  • Slightly softer than oak or maple but still holds up well in low- to moderate-traffic areas.
  • Creates an upscale, refined look that pairs well with modern and classic interiors.

Hickory – Strong and Rustic

  • One of the hardest domestic hardwoods available.
  • Has a bold grain pattern with natural variations, making it a good choice for rustic or industrial-style spaces.
  • Great for restaurants, retail spaces, and other high-traffic areas.
  • More resistant to wear and tear than other wood species.

How do you choose the right species?

  • For high-traffic areas, go with something durable like oak, maple, or hickory.
  • For an elegant and upscale look, walnut is an excellent choice.
  • For a bright, modern feel, maple works well.
  • For a rustic, natural appearance, hickory is ideal.

3. Choosing the Right Finish for Your Space

The finish you choose plays a big role in how your hardwood flooring looks and how well it holds up over time. Some finishes require more maintenance than others, so it’s important to think about how much upkeep you’re willing to do.

Matte Finish – Low-Maintenance and Practical

  • Doesn’t show scratches or dirt as easily as a glossy finish.
  • Works well in high-traffic areas like retail stores, offices, and hotel lobbies.
  • Gives the floor a natural, understated look.

Glossy Finish – Sleek and High-End

  • Provides a shiny, polished look that makes wood grain stand out.
  • Requires more maintenance to keep clean, as scratches and footprints are more visible.
  • Ideal for luxury spaces like high-end boutiques and executive boardrooms.

Wire-Brushed or Distressed Finish – Textured and Rustic

  • Has a slightly textured surface that adds depth and character.
  • Great for spaces with a rustic or vintage aesthetic, like boutique stores and hospitality venues.
  • Helps hide wear and tear over time, making it a practical choice for commercial use.

How do you decide which finish is best?

  • If you want low-maintenance flooring, go with a matte or wire-brushed finish.
  • If you’re after a sleek, polished look, a glossy finish is the way to go.
  • If you want a unique, textured appearance that hides scuffs, consider a distressed or wire-brushed finish.

Selecting the right different hardwood floors for your commercial space is about balancing durability, aesthetics, and maintenance. Whether you choose solid or engineered hardwood, the species and finish you select will impact the overall look and functionality of your space.

How to Match Hardwood Floors Seamlessly

If you’re adding new hardwood floors to a space that already has wood flooring, you’ll want everything to flow together naturally. A mismatched floor can be distracting and make a space feel disjointed, while a well-blended transition enhances the overall design. Whether you’re renovating a commercial space or expanding into a new area, knowing how to match hardwood floors ensures a smooth, professional finish.

So, how do you make different hardwood floors work together? Here’s what to consider.

1. Stick to a Similar Color Tone

One of the easiest ways to make different hardwood floors look cohesive is by choosing wood with similar undertones. Hardwood flooring comes in warm, cool, and neutral shades, and mixing clashing tones can make the flooring stand out in a way that feels unintentional.

How do you know if your floors have warm or cool tones?

  • Warm tones include wood species like red oak, cherry, and hickory, which have hints of red, orange, or gold.
  • Cool tones include woods like ash, maple, and certain gray-stained floors, which have a more muted, neutral appearance.
  • Neutral tones include white oak and some walnut varieties, which can lean either warm or cool depending on the stain.

How to Match New Flooring to Existing Hardwood

  • If your current flooring has a warm tone, stick with another warm-toned wood rather than adding a cool gray floor that might feel out of place.
  • If you want to introduce a new wood species, try to match the stain rather than the natural wood color to create a seamless transition.
  • When in doubt, neutral woods like white oak are versatile and work well with both warm and cool tones.

2. Use Transition Strips for a Clean Break

Sometimes, it’s impossible to match new hardwood floors perfectly to existing flooring, especially in commercial spaces where different areas serve different functions. In cases like this, a transition strip can create a natural break between two types of wood.

What is a transition strip?

A transition strip is a thin piece of wood or metal that separates two different flooring materials. It acts as a visual and functional divider while making the change between floors look intentional.

When should you use a transition strip?

  • If the existing hardwood and new flooring have noticeably different colors or grain patterns.
  • If the two floors meet at an open doorway or entryway where a break makes sense.
  • If one floor is slightly higher than the other, a transition strip can help smooth out the difference.

Types of Transition Strips for Hardwood Flooring

  • Wood transition strips: The best choice when blending two hardwood floors, as they create a natural division without looking out of place.
  • Metal transition strips: More commonly used in modern commercial spaces where hardwood meets tile, carpet, or other materials.
  • Flush transitions: If the floors are similar in tone and height, a flush transition can create a seamless look without an obvious break.

Using a transition strip is a great way to embrace a flooring change rather than trying to hide it. In spaces like restaurants, hotels, or offices, they can help define different areas without disrupting the flow.

3. Match the Grain Pattern

The grain of hardwood refers to the natural lines and patterns in the wood. Even if two floors have similar colors, mismatched grain patterns can make the transition feel jarring.

How to Choose Wood with Matching Grains

  • Subtle, straight grains (like maple and white oak) work well together because they create a clean, modern look.
  • Bold, prominent grains (like hickory and red oak) add texture but can clash if mixed with smoother grains.
  • If you’re mixing species, try to choose woods with a similar grain intensity. A highly textured wood next to a smooth one can feel inconsistent.

How to Minimize Grain Differences

  • Use a matte or satin finish to soften the contrast between grains.
  • Select a stain that enhances or mutes the natural grain, depending on how much variation you want.
  • Lay the planks in a consistent direction to create flow, rather than highlighting the difference.

A cohesive grain pattern ensures that even if your floors aren’t an exact match, they still complement each other in a way that feels natural.

4. Consider the Room’s Design

Your hardwood floors don’t exist in isolation—they’re part of the overall design of your space. The way the flooring interacts with walls, furniture, and other materials can either enhance or detract from the aesthetic.

What to Consider When Matching Floors to Your Design Style

  • Modern & Minimalist Spaces – Lighter woods like maple, white oak, or light-stained walnut pair well with clean lines and neutral colors.
  • Traditional & Classic Designs – Darker woods like walnut or cherry can add warmth and a sense of sophistication.
  • Rustic or Industrial Aesthetics – Distressed, wire-brushed, or wide-plank floors with visible grain patterns work well.
  • Luxury & High-End Spaces – A glossy finish on dark walnut or Brazilian cherry floors creates a polished, elegant feel.

By thinking about how your hardwood flooring fits into the bigger picture, you can create a space that feels intentional and well-designed.

5. Play with Plank Widths for a Subtle Touch

While most people focus on color and grain when matching hardwood floors, plank width is another important factor. Mixing different widths can create subtle variation without making the floors feel mismatched.

How to Use Plank Width to Your Advantage

  • Wide planks (6 inches or more) can make large areas feel open and luxurious.
  • Narrow planks (2-4 inches) work well in smaller rooms or hallways where wide planks might feel overwhelming.
  • Mixing widths can create a dynamic look while still maintaining continuity. For example, using wider planks in a lobby and narrower planks in hallways can define different spaces without creating a stark contrast.

What to Avoid When Mixing Plank Sizes

  • Avoid pairing extremely wide planks with very narrow ones unless it’s an intentional design choice.
  • Keep the same installation pattern—if one area has a straight lay, avoid switching to a herringbone or diagonal pattern unless it fits the overall design.

Matching hardwood floors doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re expanding a space, renovating, or combining different wood types, the key is to focus on color tone, grain pattern, transition strips, room design, and plank width. By keeping these elements in mind, you can create a seamless and visually appealing space without having to replace all your existing flooring.

Other Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Hardwood Floors

Selecting hardwood floors for a commercial space is about more than just choosing a color or wood species. The right flooring should balance durability, maintenance needs, sustainability, and even branding. Before making a decision, it’s important to consider how the floor will hold up over time, how easy it is to maintain, and how it contributes to the overall look and feel of your business.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing hardwood floors for your commercial space.

Durability and Maintenance: Choosing a Floor That Lasts

In commercial settings, floors experience significantly more wear and tear than in residential spaces. Heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, spills, and even weather conditions can impact how well hardwood holds up over time.

Which types of hardwood are the most durable?

Not all hardwoods are created equal. Some are naturally harder and more resistant to dents, scratches, and scuffs, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. The Janka Hardness Scale is a measurement used to determine the durability of different hardwood species. The higher the rating, the more resistant the wood is to wear and tear.

Here are some of the best hardwood species for commercial spaces:

  • Oak – One of the most commonly used hardwoods due to its strength and versatility. It resists scratches and dents well, making it perfect for offices, lobbies, and retail spaces.
  • Maple – A dense and durable wood that works well in high-traffic areas like gyms, restaurants, and performance venues.
  • Hickory – Even harder than oak, hickory is an excellent choice for busy environments like hotels and shopping centers where floors see a lot of movement.
  • Walnut – While softer than oak or hickory, walnut offers a rich, sophisticated look that works well in executive offices or upscale boutiques.

How can you make hardwood floors last longer?

Even the most durable hardwood needs proper maintenance to extend its lifespan. Here’s how to keep commercial hardwood floors looking their best:

  • Use protective finishes. A commercial-grade finish, such as polyurethane or aluminum oxide, adds a layer of protection against scuffs and stains.
  • Clean regularly. Sweeping and mopping with a hardwood-friendly cleaner helps prevent dirt buildup and scratches.
  • Use rugs or floor mats. Placing rugs in high-traffic areas, like entryways and hallways, reduces wear.
  • Install furniture pads. This prevents heavy tables, chairs, and shelving units from scratching the surface.
  • Refinish when necessary. Over time, hardwood floors may need to be sanded and refinished to restore their original appearance. Choosing solid hardwood allows for multiple refinishing cycles.

By selecting a durable wood species and maintaining it properly, you can ensure that your floors will stay beautiful and functional for years to come.

Eco-Friendly Options: Sustainable Hardwood Flooring

Sustainability is becoming a major priority for businesses. Many companies want to reduce their environmental footprint by choosing responsibly sourced materials, and hardwood flooring is no exception. If sustainability is important to your brand, there are several ways to make an eco-friendly choice.

What makes a hardwood floor eco-friendly?

  • FSC Certification: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies hardwood flooring that comes from responsibly managed forests. This ensures that the wood was harvested in a way that protects ecosystems, wildlife, and workers.
  • Reclaimed Wood: Instead of cutting down new trees, reclaimed hardwood comes from old buildings, barns, and other structures. This option gives floors a unique, weathered look while reducing waste.
  • Bamboo and Cork Alternatives: While not technically hardwood, bamboo and cork flooring are sustainable alternatives. Bamboo grows quickly, making it a renewable resource, while cork is harvested from tree bark without cutting the tree down.
  • Low-VOC Finishes: Some hardwood finishes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can release harmful chemicals into the air. Choosing a low-VOC or water-based finish is a healthier, more environmentally friendly option.

Why choose sustainable hardwood for a commercial space?

  • Improves indoor air quality. Low-VOC flooring helps maintain a healthier environment for employees and customers.
  • Reduces environmental impact. Choosing FSC-certified or reclaimed wood helps conserve forests and reduce waste.
  • Aligns with corporate sustainability goals. Many businesses are incorporating eco-friendly materials to meet green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

If sustainability is a priority for your business, choosing an eco-friendly hardwood floor is a great way to make a positive impact while still achieving a stylish, high-quality design.

Branding and Customization: Making Floors Part of Your Business Identity

Hardwood flooring isn’t just a functional choice—it’s also a design statement. The flooring in a commercial space sets the tone for the overall atmosphere and can reinforce a company’s brand identity.

How can hardwood flooring reflect your brand?

  • Custom stains and colors: Many manufacturers offer the option to stain hardwood in custom colors, allowing businesses to match flooring with their brand’s aesthetic.
  • Patterned designs: Herringbone, chevron, and parquet patterns can add a distinctive, upscale touch that sets a space apart.
  • Inlays and borders: For a truly unique look, some businesses opt for wood inlays featuring their logo or brand colors embedded into the floor.
  • Plank width and texture: Wide planks create a modern, open feel, while narrow planks and distressed textures give a space more character.

What types of businesses benefit from customized hardwood flooring?

  • Luxury Hotels and Resorts: High-end hotels often use custom-stained hardwood to create a warm, inviting environment in lobbies and guest rooms.
  • Retail Stores and Boutiques: Unique hardwood patterns and finishes can enhance the shopping experience and create a memorable impression.
  • Corporate Offices: A sleek, polished hardwood floor can reinforce a brand’s professionalism and attention to detail.
  • Restaurants and Cafés: Hardwood flooring can add warmth and character, especially when paired with custom textures or stains.

Customizing your hardwood flooring is a subtle yet effective way to strengthen brand identity while creating an elegant, professional look.

Choosing Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are an investment, and the right choice depends on a combination of factors, including durability, maintenance, sustainability, and design customization.

If you’re installing hardwood floors in a commercial space, here are the key takeaways to remember:

  • For high-traffic areas, choose durable hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory and apply a protective finish.
  • For eco-conscious businesses, look for FSC-certified wood, reclaimed hardwood, or low-VOC finishes.
  • For businesses that want a unique look, consider custom stains, patterns, and inlays that match your brand identity.
  • For long-term maintenance, clean floors regularly, use rugs in busy areas, and plan for refinishing if needed.

A well-chosen hardwood floor can enhance the look and functionality of a commercial space while reinforcing a business’s brand and values.

Final Thoughts on Different Hardwood Floors

Choosing the right different hardwood floors for your space is about more than just picking a wood type—it’s about finding the right balance of style, durability, and function. And if you’re adding new hardwood to a space that already has wood flooring, knowing how to match hardwood floors can make the difference between a smooth, cohesive look and an awkward transition.

If you’re looking for expert advice on commercial hardwood flooring, East Coast Flooring & Interiors has you covered. Contact us today to explore flooring solutions tailored to your space!

This article was originally published on 5/4/22 and has been updated on 2/15/2025 to provide the most accurate and relevant information.