Why Oak Plank Remains the Benchmark in Fine Flooring
Among all the species and formats we work with, oak plank continues to hold a special place. There’s a reason designers, architects and homeowners return to it time and time again — oak has that rare combination of warmth, integrity and longevity that never seems to fall out of favour.
Oak plank flooring brings a sense of calm proportion to a room. The linear format encourages the eye to travel, visually lengthening spaces and complementing both period and contemporary interiors. In larger rooms, wide planks create a serene, open feel, allowing the natural grain and medullary rays to do the quiet decorative work. In smaller spaces, narrower boards add rhythm and character without overwhelming.
Another virtue of oak plank is its adaptability. A raw board can be brushed, oiled, smoked, fumed, tumbled, distressed or left beautifully minimal with an invisible seal. From pale Scandi finishes to deep antique browns, the same timber can express dozens of moods. Few materials offer that breadth without losing authenticity.
But above all, oak plank is honest. It wears in rather than out, developing a patina that tells the story of the home it sits within. Chairs slide, feet pass, sunlight drifts across the boards over the years — and oak responds with quiet dignity, gaining a richer life rather than needing replacement.
This is why, whether we’re installing in a London townhouse, a Dorset farmhouse or a contemporary coastal build, oak plank remains one of our most requested formats. It’s timeless without being predictable, and refined without being delicate — the perfect balance for rooms meant to be lived in.