How to Contrast Two Different Hardwood Floors

Compare different wood colors with each other at a floor store before deciding on which types to use. The two wood types should usually only be a shade or two off from each other unless you decide to contrast a very dark wood with a very light wood. Mix and match samples until you have a pairing you like. Bring a picture of the room as well to compare your wall and furniture color with the wood types. While wood can be stained, walnut is typically a darker color while oak varies between medium-colored and darker varieties. Cherry is slightly reddish in color while white hickory is a lighter option.

Draw the floor plan on paper with a pencil prior to laying the wood floor down. Draw the different colors of the wood on the plan to verify that you like the configuration before continuing. This helps you plan the floor coloring around your furniture as well. One option is to use a single color as a border around the room, then mix the wood types towards the middle. Also consider mixing wood planks or tiles in a light, dark, light, dark configuration much like a checkerboard. Likewise, make larger squares of one wood color, then use the other color as a trim between the squares.

Lay down the floor in the same pattern that you drew on the paper. Once the floor is installed, manipulate the color of the wood if you're not happy with it, using stains to alter its appearance.