About
Since 2003, Carlton Floors has operated as a specialized division of Cintek System Inc., establishing a significant footprint in the premium surfacing market from its headquarters in Cerritos, California. For interior designers and space planners, the brand represents a calculated balance between "Old World" aesthetic tradition and modern engineering. Carlton’s design philosophy centers on providing high-character materials that serve as a foundational element for storytelling within a space, moving beyond mere utility to become a central component of the interior’s visual narrative.
The hallmark of the Carlton catalog is its extensive range of European Hardwood Collections, primarily utilizing European Oak (Quercus robur). These collections are meticulously curated to meet the evolving needs of modern, transitional, and classic residential environments, as well as boutique commercial applications. Key series include Oceanside, Coronado, Mendocino, Monterey, Locke, Coloma, and La Jolla.
Designers are particularly drawn to the 7.5-inch wide-plank format, a specification that has become a standard for creating a sense of expansiveness in both large-scale open plans and smaller, intimate rooms. The finish options—predominantly high-performance polyurethane—are applied over Light Wire Brushed textures. This mechanical distressing enhances the natural grain and provides a tactile quality that diffuses light more softly than high-gloss alternatives, reducing the visibility of daily wear in high-traffic zones.
Carlton’s emphasis on "Character Grade" timber supports a wide variety of design trends, most notably the shift toward biophilic and organic modernism. By highlighting natural knots, mineral streaks, and varied grain patterns, these floors allow designers to introduce authentic textures into a project. In a Modern Minimalist setting, the wide planks provide a grounded, warm counterpoint to sleek glass and metal. Conversely, in Transitional or Modern Farmhouse designs, the heavier character grades provide the necessary rustic undertones without the maintenance challenges of reclaimed wood.
Spatial flow is another critical consideration where Carlton excels. The use of random lengths up to 72 inches allows for a more organic installation pattern, avoiding the "stair-step" visual fatigue often found in lower-tier products. This variability ensures that the flooring guides the eye naturally through a home or commercial suite, enhancing the overall architectural rhythm of the site.
For the specification professional, technical reliability is as vital as aesthetic appeal. Carlton Hardwood is primarily an Engineered Hardwood system, which offers superior dimensional stability compared to solid wood. This is achieved through a multi-ply construction that resists the expansion and contraction cycles caused by humidity and temperature fluctuations.
Key technical specifications for the European Oak series include:
Specifiers should note that the wire-brushed surface is not only an aesthetic choice but a functional one. The removal of softer fibers makes the surface more resistant to indentations, a crucial factor for clients with pets or those in high-traffic residential environments.
In today’s design landscape, material health and environmental impact are non-negotiable. Carlton Hardwood Flooring supports responsible design through the inherent efficiency of engineered wood. By using a veneer of slow-growing European Oak over a core of faster-growing, sustainable wood species, Carlton maximizes the yield of every tree. Furthermore, the brand’s commitment to low-VOC finishes ensures that the products contribute to healthier indoor air quality, a primary concern for ASID professionals and wellness-focused space planners.
While formal case studies are often proprietary, typical application scenarios for Carlton Hardwood include:
Carlton Hardwood Flooring serves as a bridge between the creative vision of the designer and the functional requirements of the property owner. With its focus on high-character European Oak, wide-plank geometry, and stabilized engineered construction, it provides a "specification-ready" solution that supports both material storytelling and long-term performance. For professionals seeking a partner in surface design, Carlton offers the craftsmanship and technical backing necessary to execute sophisticated interior environments with confidence.
To begin the specification process, design professionals are encouraged to explore the full range of collections on the Carlton Floors website. Reviewing digital lookbooks and requesting physical samples is recommended to accurately assess the color depth and texture of the wire-brushed finishes. For detailed technical data or custom project inquiries, connecting with a regional sales or design support representative will ensure your project meets all necessary building and performance standards.
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