Texture You Can Feel: The Rise of Matte & Wire-Brushed Finishes for Hardwood Floors

For decades, the “piano finish”—a high-gloss, shiny floor—was synonymous with luxury. But as we look at the design trends of 2026, high-gloss is taking a backseat to something more tactile and organic. Today’s most sophisticated homes are opting for matte and wire-brushed finishes.

The Practicality of Matte

Let’s be honest: high-gloss floors are a full-time job. They highlight every footprint, every speck of dust, and every tiny scratch from a sliding chair. Matte finishes, on the other hand, are the “honest” choice for a lived-in home. Because they diffuse light rather than reflecting it, they naturally mask the “micro-scratches” of daily life. For the homeowner with “an eye to the bottom line” and a busy schedule, matte finishes offer a premium look with significantly less maintenance.

What is Wire-Brushing?

Wire-brushing is a technique where the wood is literally brushed with steel bristles to pull out the softer “springwood” from the top of the plank. This leaves only the hardest “heartwood” exposed, creating a textured surface that feels incredible to walk on in bare feet. This texture isn’t just for show; it adds a layer of depth and character that makes the wood look like it has a story to tell. It’s a perfect fit for the Craftsman and traditional home styles found throughout Allison Park.

The A&S Edge: The Showroom Experience

You can’t truly understand texture through a computer screen or a tiny swatch in the mail. We invite you to visit the A&S Carpet Collection showroom to “experience the difference.” Walk across our installation displays. Feel the grain of a wire-brushed plank. See how a low-sheen finish interacts with the light. Our skilled associates are here to help you move beyond just “looking” at floors and start “feeling” the right choice for your family.