Why cork walls & floors are here to stay – what you need to know
Cork walls and floors might be the design answer you’ve been looking for
Let’s talk cork. No, not the stuff sealing your wine bottles (although that’s part of the story). I mean real-deal cork floors and cork wall tiles—the kind currently gracing the pages of the glossy interiors magazines, hailed as the sustainable replacement for many of our current go-to flooring materials. If you’re into interiors with a natural vibe, a little bit of texture, and a lot of practicality, you’re probably already seeing why this is the thing right now.
AD info: This post has been sponsored by Portuguese Treasures
I’ve been seeing more and more designers talking about cork flooring products, especially for cosy spaces like home offices, bedrooms, and yes, even the kitchen & bathroom. What’s funny is that cork has been around for a long time (shoutout to Frank Lloyd Wright for being ahead of the curve), but now it’s getting its well-deserved spotlight again—partly because we’re all rethinking our homes, and partly because it’s just a good option in a sea of cookie-cutter (& not, it transpires that good for the environment) flooring materials.
This is the third instalment in my mini series about cork and we are going to jump into the details about the more structural and architectural uses of cork around the home.
Why Cork?
Here’s the cool part: cork is a natural product. It’s harvested without cutting down trees—just the cork bark is removed, and the tree regenerates. That means it’s a friendly material with real sustainability cred, especially important now as we get more intentional about what goes into our homes and rightly so.
Thanks to its cellular structure, cork is naturally springy. That’s a big win for anyone with bare feet in the morning. Warm, soft, and cushy, cork floors are a dream if you stand a lot (looking at you, kitchen dwellers and parents of toddlers), like those with standing desks as part of their home office wellness routine to boost productivity.
Cork Floors vs. Other Flooring Options
Compared to hardwood flooring, ceramic tile, or even laminate flooring, cork flooring offers a more forgiving surface. Drop something? Less likely to shatter. Walk a lot? It’s gentler on your joints. It also handles heavy traffic surprisingly well—especially if you go for high-density fiberboard-backed cork planks or cork flooring tiles.
Cork also plays well with noise. Its sound absorption makes it a great option for upstairs rooms or multi-unit homes. (Or perhaps, just homes with teenagers!)
What About the Walls?
Cork wall tiles are underrated. Beyond just being a throwback decorative accent, they help with acoustics and bring a cosy texture to a space. I’ve seen cork walls popping up in the most stylishly designed reading nooks, studios, and living rooms for a backdrop that’s warm but minimal. And they’re a breeze to install, especially the self-adhesive kind from Portuguese Treasures.
Things to know about cork walls and floors (AKA the Real Talk)
Cork is not invincible. Sharp objects can dent it, and it doesn’t always love heavy furniture unless you add coasters or protection, so there are some aspects to bear in mind.
Glue-down cork tiles and floating cork floor systems each have their place—floating floors are easier for DIY installs, while glue-down tiles feel more permanent. If you’re installing in a kitchen or bathroom, make sure you’re using water-resistant products and sealing properly. (Not all cork flooring tiles are equal—always check the manufacturing process and finish.)
In Summary: Cork walls and floors – why they work
Whether you’re designing a home from scratch or upgrading a room or two, cork is a good choice if you want a natural look with actual function. It’s quiet, comfy, renewable, and stylish without trying too hard. No wonder interior designers and even bathroom designers are calling it a popular choice. See below for a recap of the benefits…
Pros of cork walls and floors
- Comfortable & Quiet
Thanks to its springy cellular structure, cork flooring has natural cushioning. Great if you stand a lot (hello, home chefs and parents chasing toddlers). It’s also great for nurseries and playrooms because it softens sound and impact.
- Natural Insulation
It helps regulate temperature, which means warmer floors in winter and a cooler feel in summer. If you live in a climate with cold winters and want an alternative to chilly ceramic tile, cork’s a great option.
- Hypoallergenic & Antimicrobial
Cork naturally resists mould, mildew, and dust, which makes it perfect for allergy-prone households. Also, those antimicrobial properties are why more designers are recommending it for bedrooms and even kitchen & bathroom spaces.
- Eco-Friendly & Renewable
Harvesting cork doesn’t harm the tree—it just removes the cork bark, and the tree continues growing. The manufacturing process is generally low-impact compared to other types of flooring.
- Stylish & Versatile
Cork floor tiles, floating cork floor systems, and cork planks come in tons of finishes—natural, stained, or patterned—so you’re not stuck with one “look.” Pair it with light hardwood floors in other rooms for a textural contrast, or use it to define a specific area in an open layout.
- Easy Maintenance
It doesn’t take much—just a damp mop and mild cleaner. No need for harsh chemicals (which also means fewer volatile organic compounds in your home).
If you’re exploring types of flooring or want something fresh for your walls, cork might just be the best thing you haven’t tried yet.
