Homeowners often overlook how much their choice of flooring can add to the design of a space. Having a unique flooring material brings an unexpected flair to any area of your home. Whether you choose to go retro with patterned tiles or rustic with textured brick, implementing a statement floor design will elevate the artistic element of your home as well as impress your guests. Here are some options for unconventional flooring concepts.
Materials
Stone & Marble
Stone flooring brings an earthy and timeless aesthetic to any room with beautiful veining and a unique texture. Stone tiles vary in color and shape with more muted tones and textures found in limestone, sandstone, and marble. If you are seeking more of an outdoorsy style, you can utilize smaller-cut or colorful stones and incorporate patterns into your layout. River rock and pebble-style tiles are another option that will bring the outdoors into your home. Stone is generally easy to maintain, given that it has been sealed properly and your cleaning methods are pH neutral to protect the natural materials. While most stone only requires sweeping and occasional mopping, researching maintenance for different varieties will help you decide which you should invest in. This type of flooring ranges from $2 to $15 per square foot depending on the stone you choose; exotic or premium style stones may demand higher prices. Natural stone can last a lifetime, as it is a very sturdy and durable option.
Brick
Implementing brick flooring can bring cozy, earthy tones to your home. Brick is great for bringing texture and warmth into any room, especially a kitchen or front entrance. Combined with wooden furniture and warm-toned walls or decor, brick creates a uniquely rustic vibe that will complement the more muted areas of your home. Additionally, this material handles everyday activity very well. Sweeping and vacuuming regularly will keep brick flooring clean as well as mopping with warm water and mild detergents. There are many styles and layout patterns to choose from, including diagonal, basket woven, and herringbone brick. Visualize which room would work best with this material based on color palettes, decor, and the amount of space you have to work with.
Patterns
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tiles are a beautiful way to liven up your living space and bring color into your home. While most commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms, mosaic tiles can be installed in any room. This choice offers a lot of variety and allows you to choose how colorful or visually busy you want your floor to be. Complementing a tile backsplash keeps your kitchen design cohesive. For areas that are missing a pop of pattern or color, loosely matching your tiles to furniture or accents throughout the room could make for a more visually pleasing look. These tiles can be bought in pieces and easily installed, but a professional may need to cut the tiles for precise alignment. The cost of mosaic tiles varies based on materials, brand, and design complexity. Tiles range from $1 to $150 per square foot. Additionally, hiring a professional for installation can cost between $10 and $30 per square foot. These tiles can last from 20 to 50 plus years, especially with natural stone or high-quality porcelain. Sweeping and vacuuming regularly as well as mopping occasionally with a pH-neutral cleaner will keep these tiles pristine. Regular grout cleaning and sealing every 6 to 12 months is recommended for best possible upkeep. Individual tiles are easy to replace if they are cracked or chipped, and having smaller tiles typically means a more seamless patching process if any damage occurs.
Herringbone
While traditionally used with wood, the herringbone pattern is also popular with brick and tile. Herringbone wood flooring is a timeless and elegant choice that dates back centuries. This distinctive zig-zag pattern is named for its resemblance to the bones of a herring fish and creates visual interest and texture in any room. Herringbone can bring warmth to your home whether you opt for light wood to brighten things up or dark tones for a cozier atmosphere. Some designs even combine contrasting wood shades to enhance the zigzag effect.
Deviating from typical interior design choices by incorporating unique flooring can add value to your space and allows you to harness your creative freedom. Incorporating these distinctive options not only defines your home’s personality but also reflects your artistry as the homeowner. By choosing flooring that conveys your style and stands out from the ordinary, you can create a space that is meaningful, original, and your own. 
Lily De La Rosa
Home & Yard Magazine
