The vinyl comeback: Why this flooring is 2025’s hottest trend

The revival of vinyl flooring is being driven by a perfect storm of design innovation, lifestyle changes, and performance upgrades that make it more relevant than ever. Here, we speak to Gabby Burchmann from Andersens, who shares how the latest iteration of vinyl flooring is transforming interiors. 

From dated to desirable

“Vinyl’s resurgence is fuelled by advances in manufacturing that make it more stylish, durable, and realistic,” says Gabby. “Homeowners are drawn to its combination of affordability, low maintenance, and high design appeal.”

This evolution has been transformative. Gone are the shiny, artificial surfaces of decades past. Today’s vinyl uses high-definition printing and advanced embossing techniques to deliver finishes so realistic, they’re almost indistinguishable from natural timber, stone, or tile. “Modern vinyl offers realistic wood, stone, and tile textures… it’s thicker, more stable, and available in two formats—luxury vinyl planks (LVP) and luxury vinyl tiles (LVT),” Gabby explains. With UV coatings and improved wear layers, it resists scratches, dents, and fading, making it a strong competitor to traditional flooring options.

The look of the moment

Part of vinyl’s appeal lies in its versatility. Whether you’re after a timeless neutral or a bold statement, there’s a style to suit. Gabby’s picks for the latest design directions shaping 2025 interiors are as follows: 

• Natural oak and Australian species tones for organic warmth
  
• Herringbone and chevron patterns for an elevated, designer edge
  
• Matte finishes for an authentic timber look
  
• Stone-look vinyls such as marble, terrazzo, and travertine for contemporary luxury
  
• Wide planks and long boards that create a seamless, spacious feel
  

These styles allow vinyl to move confidently beyond its practical reputation and into the realm of aspirational design.

From living rooms to luxury hotels

One of the biggest surprises about vinyl’s comeback is where it’s showing up. Once relegated to budget-conscious homes, vinyl is now finding its way into boutique hotels, luxury apartments, and even statement architectural projects. “Designers are increasingly specifying vinyl in upscale homes, boutique hotels, and commercial spaces,” Gabby says. “It’s being laid in statement patterns like parquetry in living rooms, used wall-to-wall in luxury apartments, and even run seamlessly from indoor living areas to covered outdoor spaces for a continuous look.”

This newfound prestige comes from its ability to balance aesthetics with practical benefits. Unlike hardwood, vinyl won’t warp with moisture, and unlike tile, it’s softer underfoot and less prone to cracking. As Gabby points out: “Vinyl stands out for being low maintenance and highly durable. Cleaning is as simple as sweeping and mopping, without the need for specialised products.”

Made for modern lifestyles

The commonplace conundrum of hybrid spaces – homes doubling as workplaces, gyms, and family hubs – has amplified the need for flooring that can withstand daily wear while looking polished.

Vinyl is ideal for spaces getting double the wear due to its water resistance, and scratch and stain resistance, which makes it a stress-free choice for spills and pet accidents. It’s also comfortable underfoot and gentler on joints than tile, it offers noise reduction to soften the sounds of busy homes, and planks or tiles can be easily replaced if damage occurs.

These features also make vinyl a go-to option for rental properties, where longevity and easy upkeep are key.

Technology at its core

The reason vinyl can now convincingly rival natural materials lies in manufacturing innovation. Gabby points to advances such as surface textures aligned with printed designs, creating “ultra-realistic wood grains,” along with UV-cured wear layers for scratch and fade resistance. Rigid core technology has further enhanced stability and performance, reducing imperfections from subfloors.

Eco-conscious homeowners will also be pleased to know that sustainability is part of vinyl’s evolution. “Many manufacturers now produce low-VOC, phthalate-free options and incorporate recycled content,” shares Gabby. Some ranges are even recyclable at end-of-life, helping reduce environmental impact.

Choosing well

For those considering vinyl in their next renovation or build, Gabby advises looking beyond appearances. “Thicker wear layers, texture and matte finishes, rigid core construction, and warranty length are all indicators of quality.” And while the DIY route might be tempting, improper installation can lead to issues and void warranties. “Using a professional installer like the team at Andersens is often worth the investment.”

Explore vinyl flooring options from Andersens