Why Brazilian Cherry Floors Are Out of Style

Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, with their rich, warm tones and exotic appeal, were once the height of fashion. For years, homeowners flocked to this vibrant South American wood, known as Jatoba, to add a touch of elegance and luxury to their homes.

But the world of interior design is constantly evolving. What was once trendy can sometimes fade into the background as new styles and preferences emerge.

So, where does that leave Brazilian cherry? Are Brazilian cherry floors still in style, or have they become a relic of the past?

In this article, we'll explore the current status of Brazilian cherry flooring, discuss current trends, and help you decide if this classic hardwood is the right choice for your home.

Why Brazilian Cherry Floors Have Fallen Out of Style

Shifting Trend Preferences: Current trends favor lighter, airier spaces with cool-toned or blonde woods.
Over-Saturation: The once-exclusive look became commonplace, diminishing its perceived value.
Maintenance: Brazilian cherry requires specific care and can be prone to scratches and fading.
Sustainability Concerns: Questions surrounding responsible sourcing and deforestation impact its appeal.

This list provides a snapshot of the key reasons why Brazilian cherry has fallen out of favor, which will be explored in more detail throughout the article.

The Rise and Fall of Brazilian Cherry
Current Flooring Trends
Alternatives to Brazilian Cherry
What To Do If You Have Brazilian Cherry Floors
Is Brazilian Cherry Right for You?

The Rise and Fall of Brazilian Cherry

Brazilian cherry (Jatoba) enjoyed a long reign as a favored flooring choice. Its distinctive reddish-brown hues, dramatic graining, and exceptional hardness made it a desirable option for homeowners seeking both beauty and durability.

Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Brazilian cherry was synonymous with upscale interiors, adding warmth and sophistication to countless homes. However, as with all design trends, tastes began to shift.

The move towards lighter, airier spaces, influenced by Scandinavian and minimalist aesthetics, saw a decline in the popularity of darker, more intensely colored woods like Brazilian cherry. Cool gray tones and blonde woods like white oak became the new favorites, offering a more contemporary and less formal feel.

Furthermore, increasing awareness of sustainable forestry practices led some homeowners to reconsider exotic wood species sourced from faraway locations.

That said, the pendulum of design trends is always swinging. Recent years have witnessed a renewed appreciation for warm tones and natural materials, creating a potential space for Brazilian cherry to regain some of its former glory.

While it's unlikely to reclaim its peak popularity, the inherent beauty and durability of Jatoba ensure it remains a viable option for those who appreciate its unique character.

Current Flooring Trends

Today's flooring trends emphasize a lighter, brighter aesthetic, often incorporating natural textures and sustainable materials. Wide plank flooring, particularly in white oak and other light-colored woods, continues to be a dominant force.

The wider planks create a sense of spaciousness and showcase the natural beauty of the wood grain. Gray tones, ranging from cool ashy hues to warmer greiges, remain popular for their versatility and ability to complement a variety of design styles.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has also exploded in popularity, offering a durable, water-resistant, and cost-effective alternative to hardwood. LVP can mimic the look of various wood species, including lighter oaks and even some warmer tones, providing a budget-friendly way to achieve a trendy aesthetic.

While some homeowners still opt for darker wood floors, they often choose domestically sourced species like walnut or hickory, which offer rich color variations while aligning with sustainability concerns.

Compared to these current trends, Brazilian cherry's deep reddish-brown tones and dramatic grain stand in stark contrast. Its traditional, formal aesthetic can feel dated in homes embracing the more casual, open-plan layouts popular today.

While Brazilian cherry can still work in certain design contexts, it requires careful consideration to ensure it complements the overall aesthetic and doesn't feel out of place.

Alternatives to Brazilian Cherry

If you love the richness and warmth of Brazilian cherry but are hesitant about its current style status, several attractive alternatives can achieve a similar aesthetic or fulfill similar needs.

Hickory

This North American hardwood offers a varied and character-rich appearance with a range of color tones, some of which fall within the warmer spectrum, echoing the appeal of Brazilian cherry.

Hickory is also incredibly durable, making it a suitable choice for high-traffic areas.

Walnut

Known for its rich, chocolatey brown hues, walnut offers a sophisticated alternative to Brazilian cherry. It has a more subdued grain pattern than Jatoba, lending a more contemporary feel.

While typically more expensive than hickory, walnut is a beautiful and durable option.

Engineered Hardwood in Warmer Tones

Engineered hardwood provides the look and feel of real wood with added stability and moisture resistance. Opting for engineered planks in warmer tones like oak or maple, perhaps with a darker stain, can capture some of the warmth of Brazilian cherry while aligning with current trends.

Sustainable Wood Options

If environmental concerns are a priority, consider sustainable wood options like bamboo or cork. While these materials don't perfectly replicate the look of Brazilian cherry, they offer eco-friendly alternatives with unique aesthetic qualities.

Bamboo, in particular, can come in warmer tones and offer impressive durability.

Each of these alternatives has its own set of pros and cons regarding cost, durability, and style. Carefully consider your needs and preferences when making your selection.

For example:

Hickory is a highly durable but more rustic option
Walnut offers a more refined and luxurious feel
Engineered hardwood provides versatility and stability
Sustainable options prioritize environmental responsibility

What To Do If You Have Brazilian Cherry Floors

If you already have Brazilian cherry floors and are wondering how to update their look, there are several options available without resorting to a full replacement.

Refinishing

Sanding and refinishing your Brazilian cherry floors can dramatically alter their appearance. Opting for a lighter stain can soften the reddish-brown tones and bring the floors more in line with current trends.

You could even consider a whitewash or gray stain for a more dramatic transformation.

Area Rugs

Strategically placed area rugs can break up the expanse of dark wood and introduce lighter colors and patterns into the room.

Choose rugs in:

lighter neutrals
cool grays
or vibrant patterns

to create contrast and visual interest.

Layering rugs can further enhance the effect and add warmth and texture.

Wall Color

The right wall color can significantly impact how your Brazilian cherry floors are perceived. Opting for lighter, neutral wall colors, such as soft whites, creams, or cool grays, can create a sense of balance and prevent the floors from overwhelming the space.

Furniture and Decor

Choosing furniture and decor that complements your Brazilian cherry floors is crucial.

Lighter-colored furniture, particularly in upholstery and larger pieces, can offset the darkness of the wood.
Incorporating metallic accents, such as brass or silver, can add a touch of modern sophistication.
Consider adding pops of color through artwork, throw pillows, and other decorative elements to create a vibrant and balanced space.

By thoughtfully incorporating these strategies, you can successfully integrate your existing Brazilian cherry floors into a more updated and contemporary aesthetic without the expense and disruption of a complete floor replacement.

Is Brazilian Cherry Right for You?

While Brazilian cherry floors may not be at the forefront of current trends, which favor lighter and more contemporary styles, Brazilian cherry floors retain a classic appeal and undeniable durability.

They are no longer the default choice for new builds or renovations aiming for a cutting-edge look, but they can still work beautifully in certain contexts, particularly in homes with traditional or eclectic aesthetics.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose Brazilian cherry flooring depends on your personal style, budget, and the overall design of your home. Consider the following factors:

Your Personal Style: Do you gravitate towards warm, rich tones and traditional aesthetics? Or do you prefer a lighter, more contemporary feel?
Your Existing Decor: Does Brazilian cherry complement your current furniture, wall colors, and overall design scheme?
Your Budget: Brazilian cherry can be a more expensive option. Are you prepared for the initial investment and potential maintenance costs?
Sustainability Concerns: Are you comfortable with the sourcing of Brazilian cherry, or would you prefer a more sustainable option?

If you're drawn to the unique character and durability of Brazilian cherry and are prepared to create a design that complements its rich tones, it can still be a beautiful and worthwhile investment.

However, if you're aiming for a trendy, minimalist, or Scandinavian-inspired look, other flooring options might be a better fit.

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