Flooring
Border Inlay
Border inlays are decorative bands of contrasting material installed around room perimeters, framing the main floor field. This classic technique defines spaces, adds visual interest, and creates custom appearance from standard flooring materials.
Borders work particularly well in formal rooms where they emphasize architectural boundaries and create "area rug" effects without actual rugs. The contrast between border and field materials—different wood species, or wood with stone—adds sophisticated detail.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Decorative perimeter band
- ✓Contrasting materials
- ✓Defines room boundaries
- ✓Creates custom look
- ✓Frames main flooring
- ✓Professional installation
Types & Variations
Single line border
Double/triple line border
Decorative pattern border
Corner block borders
Mixed material borders
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Size borders proportionally to room scale—wider borders for larger rooms. Position borders to remain visible with furniture in place. Consider how borders meet at corners and doorways.
💡 Pro Tip
The visual weight of border inlays significantly impacts room perception. Light borders on dark floors appear to expand space; dark borders on light floors create contained, formal definition.