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From limestone to linoleum, concrete to cork, there are plenty of flooring materials that can enhance the look of your kitchen. But before you set your heart on solid wood or splashing ceramic, there are a few important points to consider.
“The flooring you choose should complement your kitchen, rather than be the focal point,” says Richard Robson of Paris Ceramics. ‘It should provide a platform for the rest of the room without demanding too much attention.’ The ideal floor will help create a feeling of space and light, and if you have an open-plan living room then consistency is crucial, so make sure you choose a material that can go all the way through it. Certain products may work in the kitchen, but won’t feel right for the living room, for example, and this could affect your overall decision.
“The key is finding a balance between beauty and durability,” says Tony Nicholas, managing director of Nicholas Anthony Kitchens. ‘Always talk to professionals, who will be able to advise you how different floors will suit your lifestyle.
industrial style flooring
Concrete
“Concrete adds a contemporary touch to a kitchen,” says Jonathan Reid of concrete surface design firm White & Reid. Colors range from charcoal to antique white, and it’s ideal for open-plan extensions, where it can be placed both inside and out. Concrete is fairly low-maintenance once sealed, and one of its advantages is that it can be poured directly onto your existing floor without anything needing to be underneath to level it. There are also lightweight versions that can be used on upper floors, but ask a structural engineer for advice.
resin
Resin used in residential projects has a smooth, flexible finish that is smooth, comfortable to walk on, hygienic, and also dampens sound. “A silk finish is best for kitchens,” advises John Wilson of Stratum UK resin flooring. “You can go for gloss, which has a real wow factor, but it doesn’t have the hardness of marble or polished concrete. The glossy finish will eventually dull and will require maintenance to restore it to its former glory.’ Remember, resin is a hand applied system so there may be minor flaws in the finish.
slabs
Rock
“Stone comes in such a variety of sizes, colors and textures that it can complement any kitchen style,” says Richard Robson of Paris Ceramics. Choose from deep browns to muted shades of greys, greens and yellows. Even the best quality limestone is porous, but the newer sealers are very effective and once applied, the floor should be easy to maintain. “For a modern look, opt for extra-large tiles with a matte finish,” says Jo O. ‘Grady in Stone Age. ‘Aged surfaces and random sizes, on the other hand, suit traditional kitchens.’
porcelain
“Porcelain is very versatile and can be made to look like anything from limestone to concrete, or even metallics and modern fabrics,” says Surface’s Cressida Johnstone. “It’s maintenance-free and virtually bombproof, so it’s good if you have a dog or messy kids.” The newer ranges include a wood effect, which appears indistinguishable from the real thing.
Composite materials
At around 38 percent quartz, the quartz composite is part stone and part tile, and requires no sealing. One of the great advantages is that you can have a matching work surface in the same material. To add glamour, choose a metallic-flecked composite – fabulous paired with stainless steel.
ceramic tiles
Primarily made of clay and other natural materials, ceramic tiles come in many different shapes, colors, and textures. They are less expensive than porcelain, but tend to be made with fewer straight edges and square corners. This means the grout lines need to be thicker, resulting in a more grid-like finish. However, glazed Moroccan or Syrian tiles can still be beautiful.
The kitchen floor needs to know
Underfloor heating can be used with most modern floors.
Stone and concrete heat up and retain heat well. But some hardwood floors, particularly extra-wide boards, certain veneers, and some types of adhesives, can be sensitive to heat.
Most flooring is best installed by a professional.
Some need to be considered early in the kitchen design process, while others can be installed later. Ask the manufacturer in advance.
Even if your floor is sealed, you should clean up spills as soon as possible. And remember to use manufacturer-recommended products to make sure you don’t strip oils, lacquers, or sealants.
Floors and Work Surfaces
Interior designer Clare Pascoe of Molten London gives us her tips for achieving the perfect combination of flooring and work surface. But do you want to coordinate or contrast?
To coordinate, choose materials in the same finish (matte or gloss) and match colors as closely as possible. Choose a material that can be used for both countertops and floors, or pair, say, a walnut floor with rich brown stone or a composite countertop.
Alternatively, contrast finishes in the same color, or contrast color in the same finish, such as a dark matte floor with a pale matte composite countertop. You could even contrast the two, like a matte slate floor with a polished white granite countertop.
Keep in mind that kitchens are a long-term installation, make sure you don’t get tired of the finishes or colors you choose.
Wood, wood-style and other natural floors
Solid wood
Renewable and recyclable, boards can be a real asset when selling a home. However, solid wood can move and bend if used in a kitchen, as it is sensitive to moisture and heat. “Decide how inert you want the floor to be,” says John Davies of Plastik Architects. ‘Solid wood will change over time, so if you want your floor to stay the same, choose other materials.’ Wooden floors can be finished with polyurethane lacquer or natural linseed oil, which hardens, seals and protects the wood. Most sealers will withstand many years of traffic before needing to be reapplied. Choose any gloss level, but keep in mind that high gloss tends to show marks. “Uniform planks give a modern look,” says Steve Maltby of Junckers. Knotty boards are more rustic.
engineering boards
Constructed from multiple layers, engineered wood typically has a softwood or plywood base and a wood or wood-effect top layer. “Water and wood are never a good mix, but while solid wood can split or warp, engineered boards have a center core that stops the top and bottom layers from moving,” explains Bill Worman at Element 7. Although engineered planks may feel less solid, they come in a variety of widths and finishes and are perfect for achieving a natural wood look.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is made up of synthetic materials combined with natural and recycled ingredients. It comes in various formats, colors and designs, including wood, stone and tile. And companies like Pergo have now introduced laminate with antimicrobial and antistatic properties, which are ideal for kitchens. It’s super durable, resistant to stains, wear, and fading, making it perfect for high-traffic areas. Prices vary wildly, but you get what you pay for – choosing cheap laminate can result in bouncy, ill-fitting boards and will always be a false economy.
cork
A far cry from the rippled orange tiles of the 1970s, modern cork flooring is available in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes. Resistant and naturally antibacterial, it is also ideal for people with allergies. “There are 40 million air cells in every cubic centimeter of cork,” says Paul Heatley of cork flooring company Wicanders, “which makes it very comfortable underfoot. It also has exceptional acoustic benefits.’ The cork is harvested without damaging the tree. In fact, removing the bark means the trees live longer.
bamboo
With a higher grain rating than any hardwood, bamboo is incredibly durable and less likely to split than other solid woods. Usually pre-treated by the manufacturer, it can be stained or left in its natural color and then sealed with a gloss or matte lacquer. Bamboo releases 35% more oxygen into the atmosphere than trees and is a fast-growing grass, so it can be harvested every 3-5 years, making it a very eco-friendly product.
Flexible Floors
Rubber
Silky, warm and tactile, rubber flooring comes in a wide range of colors and textures. The architects say they use rubber because it’s so tough, but it feels soft underfoot. It really is as tough as old boots, says Julie Mellor at Dalsouple. If it won’t wear out in an airport, it won’t wear out in your kitchen either. Choose a smooth surface or low-profile studs in a kitchen, as they are easier to clean. Use manufacturer-recommended products and polishes for maintaining your rubber floor, especially at first, as it is softer when new.
Linoleum
Similar to the feel of rubber, the ingredients in linoleum, the main one being linseed oil, are all natural and sustainable. “Natural products like this have inherent benefits,” says Therese Magill of Forbo Flooring. “They’re really tough, but at the same time tactile and warm to the touch, which makes them comfortable underfoot.” Linoleum is also hygienic: bacteria cannot live on it and it does not harbor dust mites, making it ideal for people with allergies.
Vinyl
Modern, high-quality vinyl is a world away from old-fashioned sheet vinyl. The exceptionally strong designs replicate the look and feel of any material, from natural materials such as wood, limestone, slate and marble, to more contemporary finishes such as zinc and glass. It can also be warmer and quieter underfoot than the real McCoy. “Vinyl floors like Amtico are a good choice if you don’t have time to maintain a delicate surface, but still want the look of a natural material,” advises Tony Nicholas of Nicholas Anthony Kitchens.