It used to be that if you lived in the southwest and were installing a floor, you would basically choose what color ceramic tile you want and call it a day.
These days we have many more choices which make it much more interesting and more confusing at the same time.
Travertine and marble floors are found in most high end homes. These natural tiles are highly desirable because their color variation add additional texture to the home. You can also change the ambient nature of this floor simply by choosing a high-gloss, more formal looking sealer or a honed, satin type finish to suit more relaxed lifestyles.
Wood and Bamboo floors are also making a comeback. Wider planks and darker stains are the trend right now as well as some strategically-placed distressing. Classic, thinner planks are still a sound choice and never go out of style. Bamboo is surging in popularity because of “green” design. Bamboo is an easily replenished resource and the look is similar to wood, but with a decidedly sleek aesthetic. For those who want the look of wood, but not the maintenance or cost, laminates are a great alternative, and come in a variety of stains and plank widths.
Ceramic and porcelain tile is probably the most popular choice today. The variety of color and size is endless, not to mention the selection of natural stone look-a-likes. Technology has helped manufacturers create patterns hat mimic travertine, and its natural variations so well, that you really can’t tell the difference.
Carpet is always a poplar choice for bedrooms and family rooms, and had its own style trends. Today, anything with a variegated yarn and color fleck is popular with families with young kids. These two criteria help hide a lot of dirt and lint. In higher-end homes and formal areas, carved Berbers with beautiful artistic patterns, are all the rage.
Specialty floor treatments help create a work of art under our feet. There are many embellishments to incorporate into a basic tile floor that will transform the surface. Beautiful mosaic or water-jet carved medallions have a “wow” factor in an entry or in a rotunda. There are many “deco” accents such as listello mosaic tile borders, available in a huge array of design and color choices. Marble and granite insets are a classic look in between tile joints for floors, and metal or glass accents add the unexpected in a back splash application.
