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17 Ideas for Creating Unforgettable Flooring
Make a Stylish Statement Underfoot with Color, Contrast and Pattern
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
If you’re on the brink of renovating your space or remodeling a new home, now’s the time to think about a critical aspect of your interior: your flooring. The right flooring can make or break a room, and also has the opportunity to bring an unexpected token of style.
Though it’s easy to lean toward the everyday hardwood floors, tile or carpeting, consider making your space sing by choosing something a little different. It may even be a small design choice such as laying the floorboards in a unique fashion or moving your furniture aside and putting down some fresh paint. If you’re wondering where to start, take a peek at the following photos to get your creativity fired up.
Though it’s easy to lean toward the everyday hardwood floors, tile or carpeting, consider making your space sing by choosing something a little different. It may even be a small design choice such as laying the floorboards in a unique fashion or moving your furniture aside and putting down some fresh paint. If you’re wondering where to start, take a peek at the following photos to get your creativity fired up.
by Amber Flooring
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This floor easily could have been finished as all maple hardwood. However, it takes on a geometric flair with the addition of wenge wood planks within the maple, which also creates a separation between the main room and the hall area.
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Don’t feel tied down to one flooring option, even if you live in a studio or loft with open space. Mixing different elements creates texture, contrast and visual interest.
by Maureen Stevens
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Feeling creative? Grab a paint brush and breathe new life into your hardwood floors with a graphic pattern. No need to be an artist; this Moroccan-inspired floor was done with a stencil!
by Maureen Stevens
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Here’s another painted floor: The chevron pattern is a youthful touch against the more formal marble tile of the tub.
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If you really want to up the ante, install glass floors. However, be sure that whatever is beneath is a sight to see, like this incredible wine cellar.
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| Here’s a glass floor landing at the top of a staircase, looking down onto the library. Install a skylight above the glass floor to bring extra natural light into the room below. And check your fear of heights at the front door! |
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| Go retro bold with a bright color like this yellow kitchen floor. Its bright hue will keep you happy as you cook. |
by Craig Denis
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For a dramatic look, think black. Don’t be nervous that your space will feel too dark. When done right, your flooring will actually feel sexy and sophisticated.
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| Red tile flooring is also another colorful possibility. These oversized tiles make the room feel more expansive, while the deep red adds vibrancy. |
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by Debra Toney
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| For a reasonably affordable way to add style to your space, try a linoleum tile design. The oversized graphic patterns bring a heightened sense of dimension to this kitchen. |
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It’s hard to go wrong with beautiful hardwood floors, and you can put your own stamp of sophistication on them by installing them in unique patterns. The look is different and fresh, and the design will help muffle scratches and stains.
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Sneak in hints of the unexpected by mixing in a small number of colorful tiles amongst more traditional tiles. The simple splash of color will make it al the more interesting.
| If you’re tiling your floor, consider laying two different colored tiles in stripe formation. It’s a fairly simple application that will add just enough visual variation. |
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Or, lay your tiles in a plaid pattern. This powder room takes on an entirely new personality with this highly graphic floor.
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| If re-tiling isn't in your budget, cut a corner by creating faux tile with paint! This clever design feels almost three-dimensional. |
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For shower flooring that's equally clever and chic, lay a teak wood grate over a recessed floor. Best part: The drain is hidden away beneath the grate.
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by Paxton Gate
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| Don’t forget the patio! Consider laying down panels of different wood species for an eclectic, personalized vibe.
More: Your Floor: An Introduction to Solid-Plank Wood Floors Using Flooring to Blur the Line Between Inside and Outside Designer Confessions: Torn Between Wood Floors |
Comments
newmouse I am very impressed with that plaid floor. Beautiful.
22 months ago · Like
amandamoore The glass floors are terrifying! Really like the plaid tile work.
22 months ago · Like
Denise Vilim We are replacing our floors in October and this ideabook is chock-full of wonderful inspiration and ideas. Thanks!!
22 months ago · Like
madrasgypsy The plaid tile floor- such an original floor/image!
22 months ago · Like
mrsben Very inspiring! So nice to see 'linoleum' featured.
22 months ago · Like
Gail Fun floors. I love the glass floors, but could not have them, can not bring myself to walk out over "nothing" like that LOL. They are so cool though.
22 months ago · Like
ozzie What is the perfect flooring for under a treadmill in a spare bedroom/office?
22 months ago · Like
Soutz Me Does anyone know if you can refinish pre-finished wood flooring? I have cherry wood pre-finished flooring that has darkened in between some of the planks from pet stains. The dark areas are very noticeable and I wondered if I could refinish them.
22 months ago · Like
Joanne Cannell Designs Yes, you should be able to refinish pre-finished flooring. It can only be done a limited number of times because the wood is a veneer. If you know who the manufacturer is, it would be a good idea to check with them.
22 months ago · Like
ronaldnmay Anyone have photos of mixing different woods in adjoining rooms? I have standard 2" oak flooring finished with a medium chestnut color. Currently MBR and study have carpeting, and I'm thinking of replacing with a dark cherry pre finished (hand scraped) flooring. Would really like to see picture of this somewhere.
7 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on Aug. 4, 2011.
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