Anderson's Eagle Lodge Hickory is a popular option in rural New Jersey, Hunt says.
With 40 lakes and several mountains in the vicinity, "rustic just really fits into the look" of the homes in West Milford, N.J., says Nancy Hunt, owner of flooring retailer Be Creative. That's why hand-scraped hickory and oak wood floors have soared in popularity in the area in recent years. "We're a very woodsy, earthy area," Hunt says. "Wood started getting popular maybe in the last 10 or 15 years, and the more samples I got in of the hand-scraped wood, the more I started selling that." Another attractive feature has been its forgiving qualities—an important factor for a community that loves its big dogs. "People aren't looking for a shiny, polished [floor], they're looking for something that can take a little beating," Hunt says. "If it gets a little beaten by the kids or the dog, it's not so noticeable."—R.K.
