As we head toward mid-year there are some key timber trends emerging that define not just how we want our homes to look in 2025, but how we want to live in them. Far from fleeting fads, these thoughtful flooring and wider interior choices point towards a deeper appreciation for natural beauty, sustainability, and enduring design – a return to the classics, if you will.
Take a closer look at some of our favourites.
While there’s always a place for cooler, more sleek looks, in 2025 we’re leaning into the inviting embrace of warm timber tones. Part of wider trend toward homes with character, comfort and connection to nature, warm timber flooring choices can help anchor a space in a way that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Read our full article on warm timbers here.
Going hand in hand (or plank in plank) with the warm timber trend is a return to classic parquetry such as Chevron and Herringbone. When rendered in golden hues and mid-town browns in particular these patterns give a timeless, artful look. Our Haven, Villa and Artiste Grande collections are all available in Chevron or Herringbone formats. Custom patterns are also available for those wanting truly unique finish.
An update on 2024’s colour drenching trend (where a single paint colour is applied consistently throughout a space), wood drenching uses a combination timber paneling and flooring to ‘wrap’ a room – creating a cohesive, cocoon-like atmosphere. Leaning into current interior trends for 1970s aesthetics, wood drenching offers a touch of nostalgia while adding warmth, texture and visual impact.
This one is all about embracing the charm of imperfection, with the ultra-smooth and polished look making way for tactile finishes and visual character via knots, cracks and colour variations. As well as celebrating the raw beauty of timber, textured finishes have the added benefit of being more forgiving of minor scuffs and scratches – making them a great option for busy households and high-traffic spaces.
More than ever, homeowners are prioritising choices that tread more lightly on the environment, and timber flooring is no exception.
Engineered timber is not only durable and long-lasting but uses approximately one-third of slow-growing hardwood resources compared to solid timber. Forte timber products are FSC® or PEFC certified, signifying a commitment to responsible forestry practices that ensure the longevity of our natural resources. Other factors that make engineered wood environmentally friendly include their low VOC emissions, long lifespan and the fact that the wood can be recycled or repurposed once it has reached the end of its lifespan.
We asked our Experience Centre teams in Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown to share what looks our clients across the country are leaning toward in 2025.
When it comes to our largest, and arguably most trend-setting, city, there’s one look that stands clearly above the rest: “Rich, warm tones, absolutely,” says Residential Project Consultant, Jamie Watt. “We're moving away from the minimalism of the last few years; people are wanting to make their homes feel inviting and interesting, and flooring choice plays a key role in that.”
In-line with the aforementioned ‘wood drenching’ trend, Muuro panelling is also seeing increased interest as people look to add character to their walls and ceilings.
“Down here in Christchurch we’re definitely seeing a strong lean towards natural, calming tones,” says Project Sales Consultant Danielle Quick, adding that Moda Sorrento and Haven Toronto have been popular choices for Canterbury homes.
As in Auckland, warmer tones are starting to make a comeback, and Danielle also says there’s been a “noticeable shift” toward wider boards that give a modern, high-end look.
“Sustainability is also a hot topic – people are asking more questions about sourcing and eco-credentials.”
According to Forte’s Queenstown Account Manager Alice Skinner, those cozy, toasty hues are making their way further south too: “We are noticing the warm traditional brown tones are top of the list – options like Moda Isola, Indus Tanami, and Artiste Vermeer.” With that said, she adds that cool and sophisticated grey tones are always in style within the alpine context.
With the rugged Central Otago landscape lending itself to striking, rustic builds, it's no surprise to hear that reclaimed wall paneling options are popular in the region, as are darker exterior cladding options like Burnt Cedar and Antique Oak.