Sun Washed Colorways: Light Hardwood And Wood Look Floors Are The Must-Have Look Of 2026

As 2026 approaches, design trends are staying luminous. The 2025 Houzz Summer Trends Report revealed a 400% surge in interest for light wood flooring in living rooms, and that momentum is now shaping plans for the year ahead. Homeowners and designers are leaning into sun-washed, natural wood tones—especially warm, light oaks—as a timeless foundation that brings warmth, brightness, and a relaxed, airy feel to the home, positioning this look as a defining flooring choice for 2026.

Leading this evolution, MSI Surfaces offers a curated portfolio of light hardwood and wood look collections, from the genuine beauty of engineered hardwood to advanced hybrid rigid core flooring and luxury vinyl planks, each designed for durability, comfort, and lasting style.

Let’s explore five standout products that define the sun-washed movement and how they elevate today’s most stylish interiors.

W^™ Luxury Genuine Hardwood

Northcutt, from the W^™ Luxury Genuine Hardwood Ladson collection, brings refined warmth to any space. These 7.5” × 75” micro-beveled planks feature soft beige tones accented by subtle, darker grains and natural knots for an authentic, organic look.

Crafted as engineered hardwood, Northcutt showcases an enhanced CrystaLux Ultra™ protective layer, resisting scratches and wear while maintaining a natural finish. The planks are also slip-resistant and compatible with radiant heating, making them ideal for both residential and commercial spaces.

Each plank carries Greenguard Gold and FloorScore® certifications for superior indoor air quality and comes backed by a Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty and a 30-Year Residential Finish Warranty. For installation, these planks offer a random-length layout that enhances the natural wood feel.

Everlife^® Laurel Reserve Luxury Vinyl Planks

Infuse your home with breezy coastal vibes through Fallonton^™, part of the Everlife^® Laurel Reserve line of LVT. These 9” × 48” planks emulate driftwood’s sun-kissed charm, blending washed greige hues, wispy whites, and authentic knots and grains for a look that’s light, open, and modern.

Built for performance, Fallonton™ features an 8 MM total thickness, a 22 MIL wear layer, and CrystaLux Ultra™ protection, delivering 100% waterproof resilience and long-term durability. A pre-attached pad provides comfort underfoot, while the click-lock system ensures a no-acclimation, fast installation process.

Certified for indoor air quality (Greenguard Gold & FloorScore®) and backed by a robust lifetime residential warranty, this flooring pairs natural style with unmatched practicality. As part of our LVT flooring collection, Fallonton™ combines beauty and functionality for busy households that need durability and easy maintenance without sacrificing style.

Smithcliffs^™ Waterproof Hybrid Rigid Core

The SmithCliffs^™ collection redefines hybrid flooring by blending authentic texture with innovative engineering. Glenbury Oak offers minimalist appeal through oaky beige and greige tones with subtle wood grain and knots that echo real timber.

Each 7.7” × 48” plank boasts a sturdy 10 MM total thickness and a 20 MIL wear layer reinforced by CrystaLux Ultra™ protection. Our patent-pending DryLuxe™ technology ensures 100% waterproof performance, while the 2 MM closed-cell pad delivers superior sound absorption and comfort.

A micro-beveled edge adds definition, and the click-lock installation system makes this collection a favorite among DIYers. Built-in antimicrobial protection enhances hygiene, and warranties include Lifetime Residential, 15-Year Light Commercial, and 10-Year Commercial coverage.

Woodhills^® Waterproof Wood Flooring

Experience authentic hardwood beauty with modern innovation in Aaron Blonde^®, part of the Woodhills^® collection. This 6.5” × 48” waterproof wood flooring with varying-length planks features light brown hues, subtle knots, and a genuine 1.2 MM handcrafted wood veneer over a stone-based core.

Engineered for everyday living, DryLuxe™ waterproof technology ensures complete moisture protection, while the CrystaLux Ultra™ finish guards against wear. The surface features a wire-brushed texture and ZeroSlip® technology for improved traction and safety.

Designed with clean-cut edges and a click-lock system that installs easily over most existing floors, Aaron Blonde® combines real-wood beauty with practical engineering. Warranties include Lifetime Residential, 20-Year Light Commercial, and 15-Year Commercial protection.

Porcelain Wood Look Tile

For the ultimate solution in moisture resistance and timeless style, Placero Oak from our wood look porcelain tile collection delivers. These rectified 10” × 60” tiles feature soft blonde tones, authentic oak graining, and a matte finish that exudes relaxed sophistication.

Highly rated for durability and Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified, Placero Oak suits residential and commercial floors, walls, and countertops, including moisture-prone areas like kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms. Its rectified edge allows tighter grout lines for a sleek, continuous look, while V2 shade variation offers subtle tonal diversity that mimics natural wood.

The Takeaway: Light Wood, Limitless Possibility

Here at MSI, our sun-washed styles are redefining how light-toned flooring enhances modern interiors. With a focus on natural beauty, comfort, and long-lasting performance, these collections empower homeowners and designers to create bright, inviting spaces that don’t compromise on durability or practicality.

If you’re ready to transform your space with the top flooring trend of the year, now is the time to discover where to buy luxury vinyl planks and other premium flooring products by visiting our website to find an authorized MSI retailer. Or, visit an MSI showroom to explore our full flooring lineup in person, or chat with us now to start your design journey today.