Best Flooring for Kitchens: UK Trends & What's Next in 2024
From LVT's dominance to engineered oak's evolution—discover what's trending in UK kitchen flooring and what's falling out of favour in 2024.
## What's Happening in UK Kitchen Flooring Right Now
The search for the best flooring for kitchens has changed dramatically over the past two years. We've seen a seismic shift away from traditional ceramic tiles towards warmer, more resilient materials that balance practicality with aesthetics. Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) now accounts for nearly 40% of new kitchen flooring installations across the UK, according to data from the Contract Flooring Association, whilst engineered wood continues its steady climb in popularity—particularly in open-plan living spaces where kitchen zones blur into dining and living areas.
## Key Takeaways
LVT dominates: Luxury vinyl tile has overtaken ceramic as the most popular kitchen flooring choice, offering water resistance and underfloor heating compatibility at £25-£60 per m²
Engineered oak remains premium: Expect to pay £40-£90 per m² for quality engineered oak flooring, with installation adding £15-£25 per m² in most UK regions
Wide planks are trending: The shift towards 220mm+ plank widths continues, creating a more contemporary, spacious feel
Sustainability matters: FSC-certified wood and recyclable LVT options are increasingly requested by environmentally conscious homeowners
Textured finishes rising: Smooth, glossy surfaces are fading fast—brushed, wire-brushed, and hand-scraped textures dominate 2024 specifications
## The Clear Winner: Why LVT Has Conquered UK Kitchens
Luxury vinyl tile's rise to dominance isn't accidental. We've watch