Flooring
Whether you are gravitating to the warmth of wood, are seeking traditional stone or want to add pattern with tiles, we have rounded up some of the best flooring options for every space
Historically, flooring options were limited – typically, bricks or stone flags would have been laid on the ground floor, with solid wooden planks on higher storeys. While some houses still follow this pattern, there is now a much wider array of flooring options available. Whether you are considering stone, wood or tiles, first think about the intended purpose of the room and the durability required. Flooring used in hallways or other high traffic areas needs to be able to tolerate heavy use, while that used in a kitchen or bathroom must be suitable for high moisture levels.
Of course, aesthetics also play a key role, but remember to think beyond the flooring’s colour and pattern, and factor in how it feels underfoot, too.
OLD CHARM
Wooden flooring brings an intrinsic warmth to any room – and this only increases when it comes to reclaimed floorboards. Reclaimed wood boasts an inimitable patina and a sense of history that befits a period home. However, this flooring option is loved not just for its looks: it is also highly sustainable and, in most cases, stronger and more durable than new solid wood flooring. The Reclaimed Flooring Co’s Antique European Oak is priced on application.
TREADING THE BOARDS
Highly durable and aesthetically indistinguishable from its solid counterpart, engineered wood flooring is becoming an increasingly popular option. Engineered planks, such as Ted Todd’s Carrick, £139.95 per metre squared, features strong composite base layers, which are then topped with a real wood wear-layer – in this case European Oak. Unlike solid wood, engineered boards will not warp when paired with underfloor heating.
INTO THE WOODS
With each plank crafted from a single piece of timber, hardwood is the traditional flooring for period proper ties and is also one of the most eco-friendly floor coverings. Although hardwood flooring is beautiful when laid in traditional planks, interesting laying patterns, such as parquet or basketweave, can add further depth and texture to a space. Made from solid European oak, Broadleaf’s Aged Vintage Oak Parquet is priced from £86.69 per metre squared.
TWIST ON TRADITION
Highly realistic, wood alternatives, such as luxury vinyl and high-end laminate, offer the warmth and character of wood while also being able to withstand the humid and wet environments of a bathroom or kitchen. A far cry from the vinyl flooring of the past, modern designs feature a high-resolution photograph of real wood, complete with the same knots and graining as the original material.
