Installing laminate flooring

There’s something magical about starting fresh as newlyweds — building a life together, decorating your first space and turning a house into a home. As exciting as it is, setting up your home from scratch can also feel overwhelming. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right flooring for each room.

Flooring might not be the first thing you gush about over dinner, but it lays the literal foundation for your home’s style, comfort and function. Whether you’re dreaming of cozy nights in the living room, cooking up memories in the kitchen or just trying to make smart, budget-friendly decisions together, picking the right flooring matters more than you might think.

Each room has unique needs when it comes to flooring, so it’s helpful to explore options that fit your lifestyle, budget and vision for your home.

Living Room

Your living room will likely be where you spend the most time together — hosting friends, relaxing after work or binge-watching your favorite shows. This room demands comfort and durability, so it’s important to balance coziness with functionality. Here are a few great options to consider for the living room:

  • Hardwood flooring: Hardwood is timeless and adds warmth to any living space. It’s durable enough to handle foot traffic and furniture and can be refinished over time instead of replaced. Choose between oak, maple or walnut for a traditional look, or go with a lighter wood for a more modern feel.
  • Luxury vinyl plank (LVP): If you want the look of hardwood with added durability and a lower price tag, LVP is a great alternative. It resists scratches, moisture and general wear — perfect for busy couples or those with pets.
  • Carpet: For couples who love a soft, plush underfoot experience, wall-to-wall carpeting adds warmth and comfort. Just remember, it may require more maintenance and isn’t ideal for allergy-prone households.

Kitchen

Whether you’re meal-prepping together or making pancakes on a Sunday morning, your kitchen floor needs to stand up to spills, heat and lots of movement. It also plays a major visual role, tying the space together. Here are several flooring materials that work well in the kitchen:

  • Ceramic or porcelain tile: These materials are water-resistant, easy to clean and come in various styles. You can even choose tiles that mimic wood or stone for added texture.
  • Vinyl flooring: Modern vinyl options are stylish and come in both sheet and plank forms. They’re cushioned, slip-resistant and extremely easy to maintain.
  • Engineered hardwood: Offering real wood’s warmth and a durable 4-6 mm wear layer that lasts over 50 years, engineered hardwood is a smart, moisture-resistant choice for kitchens.

Bedroom

This is your sanctuary — a place to unwind and recharge. Your bedroom flooring should feel soft underfoot, reduce noise and complement a relaxing atmosphere. Consider these cozy bedroom flooring choices:

  • Carpet: Still a top choice for bedrooms, carpet helps absorb sound and adds instant comfort. It’s ideal for colder climates and anyone who loves stepping out of bed onto something warm and soft.
  • Hardwood or laminate with area rugs: For a clean, polished look, hardwood or laminate can be paired with plush rugs near the bed. This combination offers style, warmth and flexibility in design.
  • Cork flooring: A lesser-known but very cozy option, cork is soft, naturally insulating and eco-friendly. It’s also antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for couples with allergies.

Bathroom

Bathrooms demand water-resistant flooring that can handle splashes, steam and frequent cleaning. It also helps if it’s not too slippery when wet. Here are the best types of flooring for bathrooms:

  • Porcelain or ceramic tile: These options are bathroom staples for good reason. They’re waterproof, stylish and easy to wipe down. Go for a matte finish to avoid slippery surfaces.
  • Vinyl plank or tile: Modern vinyl options can closely mimic wood or stone but are entirely waterproof. It’s also softer and warmer underfoot than ceramic tile.
  • Natural stone: If you want a luxurious, spa-like vibe, consider materials like slate or marble. These are beautiful but often require sealing and regular maintenance.

Dining Room

From casual meals to dinner parties, your dining area should be stylish yet practical. Chairs sliding in and out, occasional food spills and plenty of foot traffic are all things to consider. Below are solid flooring choices for dining rooms:

  • Hardwood flooring: This classic choice brings elegance and warmth to your dining space. Choose a durable finish to protect against scratches and stains.
  • Luxury vinyl plank: For a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option, LVP mimics the look of wood while resisting spills and scuffs.
  • Laminate flooring: This affordable option comes in various finishes and textures. It’s easy to clean and stands up well to wear and tear from dining chairs.

Home Office

If you or your partner works from home — or plans to — your office space should inspire focus while feeling welcoming. Flooring should reduce echoes, handle rolling chairs and reflect your style. Here are several flooring ideas for home offices:

  • Carpet tiles: These are soft, modular and easy to replace if they get stained. They also help soundproof your space and keep it cozy.
  • Engineered hardwood or laminate: This flooring option gives a polished, professional appearance and holds up well under office chairs.
  • Cork flooring: Cushioned, quiet and gentle on joints, cork is a smart, sustainable choice for workspaces where you spend long hours on your feet.

Laundry Room

Laundry rooms may not be the most glamorous part of your home, but they see plenty of action. From water leaks to detergent spills, you need a surface that won’t be ruined by moisture. Here are some top flooring options for your laundry room:

  • Porcelain tile: Durable and waterproof porcelain tile is an excellent long-term option, especially if your laundry room doubles as a mudroom.
  • Rubber flooring: Rubber flooring, which is often used in gyms, is surprisingly useful in laundry areas due to its durability and resistance to mold and mildew.

Start Your Life Together on the Right Foot

Flooring may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your future together, but it plays a big role in creating a functional home that reflects your unique style.

As newlyweds, you’re laying the foundation of your life together, so choose options that suit your daily routines, comfort preferences and future plans. Whether you opt for timeless hardwood, plush carpeting or waterproof tile, the right flooring will help turn your house into a warm and welcoming home.