What types of custom hardwood designs are popular in Tacoma homes?

The most requested are borders and picture frames (a contrasting strip around the room perimeter), herringbone patterns in entryways and dining rooms, and medallion inlays as a centerpiece. Stair accents with contrasting treads and risers are also popular in two-story Tacoma homes.

Can a custom border be added to an existing hardwood floor?

Yes. We can router out perimeter rows and inlay a border strip into an existing floor, then sand and refinish the entire surface so it looks original. The key is matching species and stain closely. We test samples during the estimate.

How much more does custom hardwood design cost versus standard installation?

Custom work adds 20–50% to a standard installation depending on complexity. A simple border adds less; a full medallion inlay or herringbone field adds more due to additional cutting time and material waste. We provide a detailed scope and price during your free estimate.

What rooms work best for custom hardwood designs?

Entryways, dining rooms, great rooms, and home offices are the most common rooms for borders and inlays — spaces where the floor is a focal point. Staircases and landings also benefit from custom trim details that tie together upper and lower floors.

Custom Hardwood Design Tacoma WA | Borders & Medallions

Popular Custom Options

Custom work can be subtle or bold. We can build a simple border for definition, or create a centerpiece that becomes the focal point of the room.

Borders and picture frames
Medallions and inlays
Herringbone and chevron layouts
Stair accents and landings
Species and stain contrast details
Seamless transitions between spaces

Design and Planning

We confirm measurements, layout lines, and transition points before the first cut. If you are matching existing floors, we can help with stain and sheen matching so new work blends naturally.

Best Rooms for Custom Work

Entryways, dining rooms, and great rooms are common places for borders or inlays. Staircases and landings are also great candidates for clean trim work and design details.

Common Questions About Custom Hardwood Design

Custom design work follows NWFA design and installation standards. Finish coats use Bona Traffic HD for durability.

What types of custom hardwood designs are popular in Tacoma homes?: Borders and picture frames (a contrasting strip around the room perimeter), herringbone patterns in entryways, and stair accents with contrasting treads and risers. Medallion inlays are popular in dining rooms and home offices as a focal point.
Can a custom border be added to an existing hardwood floor?: Yes. We can router out perimeter rows and inlay a border strip into an existing floor, then sand and refinish the full surface so it looks original. We test stain samples during the estimate to confirm the color match.
How much more does custom hardwood design cost versus standard installation?: Custom work typically adds 20–50% to a standard installation. A simple border adds less; a full medallion inlay or herringbone field adds more due to additional layout time and material waste. We provide a detailed scope during your free estimate.
What rooms work best for custom hardwood designs?: Entryways, dining rooms, great rooms, and home offices — spaces where the floor is a focal point. Staircases and landings also benefit from custom trim details that tie together upper and lower floors.

Related Tacoma Services

Explore our other local service pages:

Installation Refinishing Staircases Service Areas Repair