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When it comes to timber flooring, colour is often the first thing people notice. But just as important - and sometimes even more transformative - is texture. The finish of a plank doesn’t just affect how it looks underfoot, but also how a room feels, the way it plays with light, and the atmosphere it creates. From subtly brushed surfaces to deeply aged character, every finish brings its own personality. Here we explore a few of the more popular finishes you'll find in timber flooring.
Brushed Finishes - For Subtle Movement & Natural Depth
A brushed finish highlights the grain of the timber, gently lifting the softer fibres of the wood to create texture you can both see and feel. This technique brings out the natural rhythm of the plank, making it a versatile choice for homes that want a sense of movement without being overwhelming. Brushed finishes can range from extra light, which has a smoother finish, to a the more heavily brushed texture of rustic grade planks - each creating a very different aesthetic.
Atmosphere: Relaxed, organic, grounded.
Light effect: Grain catches light at different angles, adding gentle shadow and depth.
Best suited for: Spaces where you want warmth and a strong connection to the natural qualities of timber.
Examples: Moda, Haven, Atelier
Matte Finishes - For Quiet Sophistication
Where laminate and vinyl timber-look flooring has a more glossy finish, matte timber flooring absorbs light rather than reflecting it, giving an authentic wood look and understated elegance. It creates a calm, contemporary backdrop that feels soft and refined – a quietly sophisticated canvas that allows furnishings, art or architecture to stand out.
Atmosphere: Minimal, modern, serene.
Light effect: Diffuses light evenly, reducing glare and creating a velvety appearance.
Best suited for: Open-plan living areas or workplaces where restraint and calm are key.
Aged Finishes - For Character & Storytelling
An aged finish gives timber a lived-in authenticity, as though the floor has quietly gathered history over time. Knots, colour variations, undulated surfaces and subtle distressing create richness and character that can’t be faked. This makes aged finishes particularly appealing in spaces that want warmth and personality.
Atmosphere: Inviting, storied, rustic yet sophisticated.
Light effect: Varied surface interacts playfully with light, highlighting depth and irregularity.
Best suited for: Family homes, Heritage (or Heritage-inspired) spaces, or contemporary spaces looking to layer in a sense of comfort and timelessness.
Examples: Villa, Artiste Grande
Smooth Finishes - For Simplicity & Refinement
Smooth sanded planks showcase timber in its most even and polished form, with a surface free of heavy texture or distressing. This not only creates a clean, sleek foundation, but also means no dirt build up gets caught in the grain – making it well suited to high-traffic spaces where low maintenance is key. Smooth sanding delivers a timeless sense of refinement, making it a versatile option for both contemporary and classic interiors, as well as commercial spaces.
Atmosphere: Crisp, composed, timeless.
Light effect: Reflects light evenly across the surface, creating a balanced and open feel.
Best suited for: Homes or commercial spaces where precision and polish are part of the design story.
Example: Loft
Choosing the Right Finish
The right plank finish depends not only on aesthetics, but also on how you want a room to feel. Brushed textures bring warmth and tactility, matte surfaces provide a clean canvas, aged finishes tell a story, while smooth surfaces sit back and let you tell yours.
To get a good understanding of how light and touch might interact with flooring in your space, we welcome you to order a few samples to test out - or visit one of our showrooms to pick up samples in person and chat through options. Our specialist team is always on hand with advice and recommendations
