Creating a Statement Flooring in a Commercial Environment

Creating a Statement Flooring in a Commercial Environment

Installing commercial flooring doesn’t mean you have to choose a dull style. A commercial environment can be exciting and still serve its purpose. You can make an impression with statement flooring in this type of environment. At the same time, you can find flooring that is durable and low maintenance. You don’t need to sacrifice style and design for function. 

In this article: 

  • What Flooring is Best for a Commercial Setting?
  • 4 Statement Commercial Flooring Products 

What Flooring is Best for a Commercial Setting?



So, what is the best flooring for a commercial project? The answer to this question depends on your type of business, industry and the amount of foot traffic you experience. When you’re thinking about flooring for a commercial setting, you need to think about the number of people that will use the space. In a residential property, you may have a family and some pets. But, when you think about commercial flooring, you could be talking about hundreds of people per day as a minimum. 

Some of the most important considerations for commercial flooring are durability, ongoing maintenance, and safety. If you’re dealing with the public, your flooring surface needs to be safe to ensure no slips and falls that could lead to injury. Durability is essential as you want your flooring to last and not replace it quickly down the line. If you install the wrong type of flooring, the costs quickly add up as you’re dealing with a large amount of space. 

The most popular flooring materials for commercial settings include: 

Your specific business will play a role in making the right decision. A restaurant and shop have different needs. A restaurant needs to factor in changing temperature and potential spillages. In contrast, a shop needs to focus mainly on durability and withstanding a large amount of footfall. For complete functionality, rubber floor options are ideal for a high traffic zone. 

4 Statement Commercial Flooring Products 

Your flooring choice has a big impact on your overall design and colour. The material, shape, tone, and texture all affect the final result. Here are four statement commercial flooring products to make a great first impression. 

1. Ambrosia Herringbone



When talking about statement flooring, it’s impossible not to mention herringbone parquet flooring. The Ambrosia Herringbone features an engineered composition for ultimate stability. The classic design is timeless yet eye-catching. The Ambrosia colour is a cool, space-creating tone, mixing grey and brown palettes. 

2. Accentor Parquet



For a twist on parquet flooring, the Accentor Engineered Oak Herringbone is both cool and warm. The statement grey colour creates light and space while at the same making a statement. You can see the rich grain and raw essence of the wood. 

3. Augustine Flooring



Augustine Parquet flooring has a contemporary look with rich golden and treacle tones. The floor will remain stylish for years and create a timeless yet modern finish. The pre-finished boards are oiled with a simple tongue and groove installation construction for straightforward installation. 

4. Aesop Herringbone 



Another parquet statement flooring option is the Aesop Herringbone. The flooring is easy to maintain and finished with a natural lacquer. Think light, golden, and beige tones on a premium oak with rustic markings. It’s simple yet impactful. 


Commercial flooring can make a statement to impress your customers, members, and clients. By finding flooring that is durable, easy to maintain, and long-lasting, you can invest in the right product without compromising on style.

August 12, 2021 — Katie McKay
4 Floor Styles for Hospitality

4 Floor Styles for Hospitality

Hotels, restaurants, and bars all have specific requirements when it comes to flooring. In the world of hospitality, what you walk on is easy to miss. It’s not something that tends to wow customers. When a person comes into a restaurant, they are thinking about the food, not the floor. But the wrong type of flooring for hospitality could result in slips, falls, and injuries. In the hospitality industry, you’re usually dealing with a large space. That means new flooring is typically a big investment, and you want to get it right the first time. 

In this article:

  • What is the Best Type of Flooring for Hospitality?
  • 4 Floor Styles for Hospitality 

What is the Best Type of Flooring for Hospitality?



Whether you love the look of parquet flooring or are thinking about installing vinyl, there are several options to consider. The best restaurant flooring may look slightly different to the ideal flooring solution for a hotel bedroom. Often, the right flooring for hospitality is dependent on the type of environment. 



Think about your business and the type of environment. Is it a bathroom, restaurant kitchen, hotel lobby, or high-end bar? You need to start at the beginning to choose the best type of flooring for your business. Consider if you need flooring that has multiple uses or it’s for a sole purpose. 

In the hospitality industry, choosing a floor is a major financial and design decision. Although you have various material options, you should look for similar qualities. Must-have features of hospitality flooring include: 

  • Easy to clean 
  • Resilient 
  • Durable 
  • Water-resistant 
  • Avoids contraction and expansion 
  • Comfortable for working long hours 
  • Stain and scratch-resistant 

These are just a handful of properties to look for in your new hospitality flooring. The ideal material really depends on the type of business you have. Potential flooring materials suitable for hospitality environments include carpet, vinyl, rubber, rugs, or a combination of textures and materials. 

4 Floor Styles for Hospitality 



In hospitality, you need the perfect combination of style and function. High-end hotels, boutique bars, and trendy cafes need to look fantastic. Your flooring needs to look great while simultaneously creating a safe and functional foundation for your customers. To narrow down your options, here are four floor styles for hospitality to support your business and meet your requirements. 

1. Parquet Flooring 


Parquet flooring is a timeless and classic flooring option. This type of floor uses blocks of wood laid out in geometric shapes. You can use either traditional sized blocks or larger, more modern blocks to create a pattern. Engineered Oak Herringbone is suitable for a range of settings and features an engineered composition for maximum structural support. 

2. Engineered Wood (Lacquer Finish)



Another style to consider is real engineered wood flooring. It has the elegant finish of solid wood but with increased functionality at an affordable price. This style of wood flooring is available in a ton of different colours, tones, and grains. To choose the right engineered wood floor colour, start by looking at your overall design and the kind of atmosphere you’re trying to create. 

3. RVP Tiles



If you need flooring that works for practically any environment, RVP vinyl is a must. The next generation of luxury vinyl is water-resistant and sound-reducing. It features a highly stable SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) core and a massive 0.7mm scratch-resistant layer. 

4. Industrial Luxury Rubber



For an industrial-looking design, rubber is a popular floor for high traffic areas. Rubber flooring is a fantastic material in terms of shock absorbency, safety, and ease of maintenance. You can find a range of tones and colours in the rubber tile collections with slightly different textures to suit your design and needs. 


The hospitality sector needs the right flooring solution to support your members, increase comfort, and create a safe foundation. With employees rushing about and serving members of the public daily, your flooring style should be both functional and beautiful. 

August 12, 2021 — Katie McKay
The Ultimate Guide to SPC Flooring

The Ultimate Guide to SPC Flooring

SPC flooring is an innovative vinyl tile that’s gaining popularity in both residential and commercial environments. With advances in technology, flooring is evolving to be more durable, last longer, and retain every bit of style. But, what is SPC flooring and what are the benefits? Let’s dive in. 

In this article: 

  • What is SPC Flooring?
  • How is SPC Vinyl Tile Flooring Made?
  • 5 Benefits of SPC Flooring 
  • Where Can You Use SPC Flooring?

What is SPC Flooring?



SPC stands for stone plastic composite. It’s a luxury vinyl option that combines limestone and stabilisers to create a very stable and durable core. One of the standout characteristics of SPC flooring is that it has several layers that contribute to both its aesthetic and high function. 

Traditional click forms of vinyl have a PVC core that is soft and flexible. That means that it’s more easily dented by heavy furniture and isn’t as durable as SPC flooring. SPC vinyl is a heavier, thicker, and more realistic-looking type of flooring. 

How is SPC Vinyl Tile Flooring Made?



You can break down the construction of SPC flooring into several layers. It’s all these layers that combine to create a durable, functional, and beautiful final product. You have an underlay followed by the SPC core layer. Then, you have a few more layers that contribute to the water, scratch, and scuff resistance of the vinyl. Finally, you have the top finishing layer, which acts as a protective screen against UV discolouration.  

The actual SPC core is made by mixing limestone powders and stabilisers to create an uber stable and waterproof core. The SPC core goes through several processes to produce the final vinyl flooring. It’s the SPC core that provides rigidness, durability, and stability to the flooring. Because SPC flooring is rigid, it’s much more resilient to dents in comparison to traditional vinyl flooring. 


5 Benefits of SPC Flooring 



SPC flooring has a unique process and construction that allows it to have some special features. Due to its structure and stability, SPC flooring has unique advantages, which is why it’s such a good option for a range of environments. Here are five benefits of SPC flooring. 

Waterproof 



You don’t have to worry about splashes and spills in the home or on your restaurant flooring because SPC flooring is 100% waterproof. The floor protects against water as it has a completely waterproof core. One of the biggest benefits of choosing SPC vinyl is that it’s waterproof, so you can install it in practically any environment. 

Comfortable 



The thick layers of SPC flooring combine to create a comfortable foundation. The vinyl tends to offer more cushioning than other types of flooring. This makes it ideal for the home and in a commercial setting where employees are standing for long hours at a time. 

Temperature-Resistant 



Thanks to the super stable SPC core, SPC vinyl will remain stable in environments with changing temperatures. For example, solid wood flooring is sensitive to temperature changes and can result in expansion and contraction. SPC vinyl is super durable and will remain stable in areas with heating or cooling systems. 

Reduce Noise



Another benefit of SPC flooring is that the thick tiles help to reduce noise. The dense core helps to minimise sound, which can be very useful in upstairs rooms and hospitality settings. 

Easy to Maintain 



SPC flooring is designed to be simple. That means that it’s easy to maintain and doesn’t require much work to keep it looking great. All you need to do is sweep up any dirt and dust and run a mop over it. 

Where Can You Use SPC Flooring?



A significant advantage of SPC flooring is that you can use it in practically any environment. Because of its long list of benefits, you can use SPC flooring in places where you might not want to install other types of flooring. For instance, bathrooms and kitchens tend to change temperatures, and it’s not unusual for splashes and spillages to hit the floor. SPC flooring can handle these types of environments without causing any damage to the floor. Other places you can install SPC flooring include:


When shopping for SPC vinyl, you have a ton of options to think about. With different colours, tones, grains, and wear layer thickness. It’s a good idea to choose SPC vinyl with a thick top layer as this will make it super resistant to scratches and scuffs. If you’re ready to upgrade your home, hotel, or restaurant, SPC flooring is a great option that not only looks fantastic but will last.

August 12, 2021 — Katie McKay
How to Choose the Right Engineered Wood Floor Colour

How to Choose the Right Engineered Wood Floor Colour

New flooring is an investment. You want to make sure that you are completely happy with the final result. When it comes to engineered wood, you have a few options to consider. An important decision is the colour of the wood. With all the different colour and design options, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. 


In this article: 

  • How to Choose the Right Engineered Wood Colour 
  • 4 Engineered Wood Colours to Inspire Your Design 

How to Choose the Right Engineered Wood Colour 


Engineered wood flooring features a top layer of real solid wood. Underneath the top layer, there are several layers of thin wood that are glued together like a plywood sandwich. These layers make engineered wood more stable and less prone to expansion and contraction than solid wood boards. 


As with any flooring or design choice, colour can have a massive impact on the final result. Whether it’s your walls, furniture, or flooring, colour choices affect the overall feel of the room. Your wood flooring is a big investment in terms of both cash and time. 


Products on the market can range in price, durability, and quality. So, it’s important to choose a high-quality product with a colour that you love. The best way to test your new flooring is by using a selection of samples. It’s important to know that your lighting can have a significant impact on how your flooring looks. Test your samples at different times of the day to make sure you like the look throughout the day. 

Your room dimensions and space available are big determiners in choosing the right colour. Then, think about your current design and interior and the look you’re trying to create. Your colour palette and furniture will play a role in your decision. 

4 Engineered Wood Colours to Inspire Your Design 

There are tons of different colours, grains, and shades to choose from when it comes to engineered wood. Whether you’re a wood floor newbie or have a good idea about what you’re looking for, here are four colour ideas to inspire your next home improvements project. 

1. Dark and Cool Tones 


Dark and cool tones continue to be a popular option for wood flooring. When done properly, it creates a sophisticated and timeless result. Pair with contrasting interior and furnishings for a dramatic yet stylish look. The Haarlem Cocoa engineered wood floor features dark coffee tones with a rich and opulent texture. 


2. Grey and Beige 


Grey has been a popular choice for a while now. But, variations of grey are starting to emerge, with more people blending grey and beige. Think subtle grey colours combined with cooler darker tones like browns. It can create a warm and classic look that’s both contemporary and welcoming. 


3. Rich and Textured


Wood flooring texture also plays a big role in choosing the right flooring. You have many different textures to choose from. Distressed flooring can offer a rich and authentic look. It’s ideal for homes with children and pets as scratches and scuffs are less likely to show up. The Novara engineered wood flooring uses European oak with a rich dark brown full of rich texture. 


4. Honey and Copper 

Another colour palette to explore is honey and copper. This type of wood is light enough to make rooms feel big and airy but with a rich and warm texture that comes from a slightly darker wood. Think natural tones that offer the perfect mixture of light and dark woods. 


When choosing your engineered wood colour, start by evaluating your room dimensions, space, and type of room. All this helps you to figure out what colour will work best. Then, order some samples and make sure that you like your new flooring in your lighting environment.

August 09, 2021 — Richard McKay
Home Decor Colours - Dare to be Beige

Home Decor Colours - Dare to be Beige

Beige is a hugely popular choice in the home and doesn’t need to be boring. The colour brown used to be associated with dull, boring, and drab design. But, nowadays, it is the new black. It’s light and airy like white but adds another level of warmth. There are also various shades of brown from cool Beige tones to deeper, caramel shades and even metallic bronzed options.  By making clever design choices, neutral shades can pull together your entire design. Keep reading to find out how to decorate with brown tones.

In this article:  

  • How to Decorate with Neutral Brown Tones
  • 3 Brown Floors to Upgrade Your Home 

How to Decorate with Neutral Brown Tones


 

Brown is a classic and neutral tone that blends well with various designs, colours, and textures. Because it coordinates with basically every other colour out there, you can easily mix up your bedroom, living room, or kitchen with neutral accents. 


You can combine muted tones with natural white, browns, and punchier colours like coral, deep green and navy blue. If you want a wide, open, and airy living space, then you will love the combination of neutral beige and white palettes for walls, floors and panelling. These colourways are timeless and will not lose their elegance meaning you only need to update smaller decor elements such as textiles over years to come.


Brown interiors may not sound like the boldest of settings, but they can create a beautiful environment that feels warm and welcoming. You can use variations of Beige to accent walls, different wood furniture colours to elevate any room. Using this colour wisely with other natural accents and even a bold contrasting colour can create a beautiful final result.  

3 Brown Floors to Upgrade Your Home 


 

Beige can create warmth, relaxation, and comfort. Whether you want to add tones of oat, sand, or camel, you can upgrade your home with a calming and beautiful colour. If you dare to beige, here are three beige floors to enhance your decor. 

1. Velasco Laminate


 

Velasco Egger Laminate flooring is a natural light oak to create a classic, warm, and engaging finish. Laminate flooring is one of the best alternatives to real wood flooring. It’s a budget-friendly option and creates a super durable foundation. This laminate flooring is ideal for contemporary or neutral interior decor. 

2. Yonago Engineered Wood


 

Another neutral brown flooring option is Yonago Engineered Wood. The pale white oiled oak is stripped back and creates a luminous and spacious effect. Engineered wood is durable, compatible with underfloor heating, and features a very stable construction. 

3. Geneva Engineered Wood


 

The Geneva Engineered Wood Flooring is the lightest of all three with a very light natural oak colour. With a white lacquer, this flooring would be ideal with neutral, Scandinavian, and coastal styles. The flooring has a thick top layer of natural wood that can be sanded down several times. This means that you can give your flooring a new lease of life throughout the years when necessary. 

When introducing neutral browns to your home, it’s great to start with your flooring and walls. As it is easier to change furniture, textures, and artwork, you can add pops of colour here instead of redecorating the entire room. Create a modern and contemporary living space with a backdrop of neutrals and you will always have a great canvas to add your own personal style of decor.

August 06, 2021 — Katie McKay
5 Floors for High Traffic Areas

5 Floors for High Traffic Areas

Whether it’s in the home, hotel, or restaurant, high traffic areas require a certain type of flooring that can withstand a lot of use. Your flooring needs to be uber durable and reduce the sound that comes from heavy footfall. Let’s take a look at the best materials and flooring options for high traffic areas.

In this article: 

  • What is the Most Durable Type of Floor?
  • 5 Best Floors for High Traffic Areas 

What is the Most Durable Type of Floor?

It’s important to consider room use and the amount of traffic when choosing flooring for both home and commercial settings. The hallway in the home or reception room in a hotel will experience a fair amount of foot traffic. It’s a smart choice to install a durable floor that can take a beating. That way, you won’t end up ruining your floor by purchasing the wrong type of flooring. 


Several materials are known for their durability. Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses. Depending on your environment, the most durable flooring for your situation can differ. It’s best to align your environment with your flooring so that it delivers the most durable result.   


5 Best Floors for High Traffic Areas 

High traffic areas in the home and businesses will start to look slightly worn more quickly than standard zones. You can start to see scratches and discoloration easily, especially if the wrong material is used. Here are five of the best flooring materials for high traffic areas in residential and commercial settings.

1. Rubber 


Rubber is a great choice for high traffic areas. It’s a naturally durable and water-resistance material. It features a modern tile design and is suitable for contemporary residential and commercial settings.  


2. RVP Vinyl 


You can install RVP Vinyl in practically any room or environment. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of luxury and function, this is a good option. It’s proving a very popular option for high traffic areas like hotels, gyms, restaurants, and pubs. The flooring features a huge top layer, making it uber resistant to scratches, stains, discolouring, and water. 


3. Laminate 


Modern laminate flooring is an excellent alternative to solid hardwood. Laminate is suitable for both commercial and residential areas. Egger laminate features a patented easy click system for simple installation. It’s a highly durable flooring option and much more cost-effective than solid wood. 


4. Concrete 


Concrete tends to be a more suitable option for commercial environments, but it can look edgy and industrial in the home as well. If you need complete durability and low maintenance, concrete should be at the top of your list. Concrete is extremely tough and durable but can be harsh on joints if people stand for a long time.  


5. Engineered Wood 


Engineered wood is a fantastic option for areas where you want it to not only look great but increase value. Although it may not be the first material that pops to your head when you think of high traffic areas, it’s an attractive option that is durable enough to cope with high footfall. 


When you have a high traffic area, you need to think carefully about your flooring decision. Consider how you will plan on using the space and the amount of footfall you will likely experience. Whether you opt for laminate, RVP vinyl, or rubber, you can find flooring that can cope with your environment.

August 05, 2021 — Richard McKay
What is the Best Restaurant Flooring?

What is the Best Restaurant Flooring?

It’s no secret that running and opening a restaurant is tough. The decor is a huge decision in not only creating the right ambience in the restaurant but making a safe base for employees and customers. One thing that can save time and effort while making a big impact is your flooring choice. Flooring is the foundation for your aesthetic and sets the tone for the restaurant. Let’s take a look at how to choose the best restaurant flooring. 

In this article: 

  • How to Choose the Right Restaurant Flooring 
  • What is the Best Restaurant Flooring?

How to Choose the Right Restaurant Flooring 



The best place to start with restaurant flooring is to look for something super easy to clean. With food and drinks, naturally, there’s a higher chance of spillages. This is why most restaurants opt for a hard surface. But that’s not to say you should write off carpet altogether. 


You need to consider flooring that can handle the restaurant environment. Generally, employees will be rushing about to serve customers. That means you need flooring that has enough traction and non-slip properties to protect everyone in the restaurant. Think about ongoing maintenance and how much time you have to commit to your flooring over time. 

Your restaurant flooring needs to be the ideal combination of functional, safe, and beautiful. You will likely have different options depending on the area in the restaurant. Your kitchen area and bathrooms needs will slightly differ from your restaurant where you serve customers. 

What is the Best Restaurant Flooring?



There is a huge variety of flooring to choose from in your restaurant. Whether you want one seamless option or a combination of materials is down to you. Here are some choices to consider when installing or upgrading your restaurant flooring. 

Vinyl 



RVP vinyl is the next generation of luxury vinyl. One of the reasons it’s such a good option for a restaurant is that it’s water-resistant, reduces sound, and has a huge 0.7mm top layer making it stain and scratch-resistant. It looks great and is durable and easy to maintain. It provides a soft foundation for people to work on while looking excellent. RVP vinyl features an extremely stable SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) core which helps avoid expansion and contraction in changing temperatures and humidity. 

Concrete 


Wood


Engineered Wood is a popular floor option for the Hospitality industry.  Most people like to have wood flooring featured within their home as it reflects warmth, comfort and flexibility with home decor.  Not only does Wood come in a huge variety of colours, formats and styles, it can be easily maintained by recoating with lacquer every few years with the floor itself lasting decades.


Often, restaurant owners opt for concrete because it’s durable and very affordable. You can also paint or glaze the concrete to enhance the look of the concrete. Concrete is a good choice for an industrial look which has become increasingly popular in recent years. When concrete is treated, it’s easy to clean up spillages. The main downside of concrete is that it’s hard underfoot, so it can be uncomfortable for employees who are on their feet all day. With concrete, it’s a good idea to add some mats in certain areas to ease the impact on joints for staff. 

Laminate 



Laminate is a fantastic choice for restaurants as it can withstand the wear and tear of restaurant life. It’s great for high-traffic areas as it’s resilient and highly durable. The budget-friendly flooring is suitable for commercial applications while delivering the natural rich look of wood. It’s moisture-resistant and has a ton of design options available. 

Rubber 



Rubber is mainly used in the kitchen but can be suitable for all restaurant areas. Naturally, it’s very durable, water and stain-resistant. It also absorbs sound, so it is great for reducing noise. Rubber flooring absorbs shock, so it can help ease the impact on joints. This is especially important for employees who will be standing all day. 

Carpet  



Carpet is good for creating an intimate dining experience. Although it’s not ideal for kitchen environments, it does have its place in a restaurant setting. Carpet can help create a quiet environment and feels soft underfoot. You also have the option to use carpet tiles, so you only need to replace damaged tile when necessary rather than replacing an entire carpet. 


Planning and researching your restaurant flooring is key to making the right decision. Think about both the environment you’re trying to create and the safety of your employees and customers. Make sure that you choose the optimum material that you can maintain in the long term.

August 03, 2021 — Katie McKay
5 Most Popular Home Improvements Planned for This Year

5 Most Popular Home Improvements Planned for This Year

With people spending more time at home, 2021 is the year of home improvements. Research shows that 48% of people in the UK are spending a staggering £110.3bn on home improvements. Home improvements are increasing in popularity throughout the UK. Let’s take a look at five of the most popular home improvements planned for this year. 

In this article:

  • Why Are Home Improvements Increasing in Popularity? 
  • 5 Most Popular Home Improvements Planned in 2021 

Why Are Home Improvements Increasing in Popularity?



Many people carry out home improvement to increase the home’s value and move up the property ladder. But, multiple national lockdowns have affected how a lot of people view the home. 

Instead of looking to add value to the home, a key driver behind home improvements are lockdowns. Because people were forced to spend more time at home, they noticed that they needed to improve the home. Spending more time at home actually caused a little more wear and tear in itself. 


The combination of spending more time at home and the new awareness for more space has promoted many people to move home. Whether they are renovating after moving house or decorating to attract potential buyers, tradespeople have been bombarded with work. 

5 Most Popular Home Improvements Planned in 2021 



The journey to home improvements doesn’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon. From adding a fresh coat of paint to extending the home living space, more people look to integrate work, social, and fitness activities into the home. Here are five of the most popular home improvements on the horizon this year. 

1. Adding a Home Office



It’s no surprise that creating a modern home office is one of the top home improvements this year. Although more people are returning to the office, home working has become the new normal, with some of the workforce never wanting to go back to the office. If you have a spare bedroom to transform into your home office, the Novara Oak Smoked Wood flooring looks fantastic with a deep and rich texture. 

2. Creating a Home Gym



With on and off gym closures for the last year, the home gym is a popular home improvement option. You can install a home gym in a spare room, garage, garden, or at the end of the living room. Even with gyms and fitness studios open, home fitness has taken on a whole new meaning with various digital fitness subscriptions available. 

3. Kitchen Refurbishment



The kitchen has a big job in the house. It’s another popular room for refurbishment. Upgrading the kitchen can be as simple as a lick of paint to new flooring and kitchen cupboards. Homeowners prioritise kitchen refurbishments with a need to create functional and practical space the whole family can enjoy. 

4. Installing a Home Bar



For some, the go-to home improvement is installing a home bar. Stylish drink trolleys and bars look great in the living room or an outdoor garden bar. Try installing a timeless parquet flooring for a statement finish. 

5. Update the Bathroom



Another part of the home seeing more attention is the bathroom. Bathroom renovation ideas are practically endless. Whether you want to buy a new bathroom suite, change the flooring, or add new statement tiles, you can do a lot with the bathroom. 

By adding unique storage solutions, maximising space, and making the most out of your home, you can create multi-functional rooms to work, play, and socialise. From creating a home gym to building the bar of your dreams, you can enhance the home as you need.

July 28, 2021 — Katie McKay
6 Signs You Need to Replace Your Flooring

6 Signs You Need to Replace Your Flooring

Replacing your flooring is an investment. New flooring can give your home a new lease of life and completely revamp the space. It’s important to look out for the signs that you need to replace your flooring. That way, you can get the most out of your existing flooring before you purchase new flooring. Keep reading to find out the six signs you need to replace your flooring. 

In this article: 

  • The Benefits of Replacing an Old Floor 
  • 6 Signs You Need to Replace Your Flooring 

The Benefits of Replacing an Old Floor 


 

Adding a new floor tends to add value to a home, while an old floor may put off prospective buyers. A new floor can enhance your mood and improve the quality of your home. For those looking to sell or upgrade the home, replacing an old floor can have a huge impact on the overall house interior. 

If you suffer from allergies, new flooring may help to reduce allergies. Allergens, such as dust and dander, can build up in old carpet. This contributes to allergy symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. Over time, airborne allergens can settle into the carpet. That’s not to say you should avoid carpet altogether. However, if your allergies are bad then switching to a hard flooring surface is a good idea. 

6 Signs You Need to Replace Your Flooring 


Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and areas of the house that see a lot of traffic tend to experience more wear and tear. Flooring in your home can easily become scratched and damaged over time. If you’ve been wondering when you should replace your flooring, here are six signs to look out for. 

1. Soft Spots and Cracks


 

Cracks and soft spots in the flooring not only affect the aesthetics of the flooring, but can affect the safety over time. One of the most obvious signs that you should start thinking about replacing your flooring is cracks. You may be able to repair some cracks rather than replacing the whole floor.   

2. Uneven and Outdated


 

Replacing your flooring can upgrade outdated flooring and improve the overall look of the home. Depending on the type of flooring you have, uneven flooring can either buckle, cup, or become a bit lumpy. New flooring can refresh a space without spending a ton of money on upgrading an entire room. 

3. It Could Increase your Property Value


 

If you’re planning on selling your home and looking for ways to increase the property value, updating your flooring is a great idea. This is especially true for a floor that will need replacing soon as it’s one less thing for a potential buyer to do after they move in. 

4. Makes Creaking Noises 


 

When your floor makes strange noises and creaks, it’s a sign that your subfloor is not performing at optimum levels. With some types of flooring, you may be able to fix odd creaks and squeaky floorboards. Depending on the level of damage, the price to repair a creaky subfloor can differ. 

5. Water Damaged


 

Water damage can wreak havoc on flooring. If you have experienced water damage previously, you should think about replacing it. Your floor can become uneven due to leaks or water damage. While water damage may not always impact the top layer of flooring, it can get underneath. If it’s not fully dried out afterwards, you could face an ever bigger mould problem. 

6. Large Scuffs, Scratches and Marks


 

While it’s normal for flooring to have some scuffs and marks, after all, high-traffic areas with kids and pets can result in scratches. It’s important to be on the lookout for deep scratches that go beyond the finish and into the floorboard. In this case, it may be time to replace your flooring to avoid further damage. 


If you don’t know when your flooring was installed, it’s likely outdated by this point. Watch for signs that you need to replace your flooring to improve your home, increase the property value, and enhance your decor. From engineered wood and laminate to parquet flooring, there are a ton of options to consider when replacing your flooring.

July 27, 2021 — Katie McKay
What is the Best Flooring for Hotels?

What is the Best Flooring for Hotels?

The perfect flooring for hotels needs to be durable, long-lasting and high-quality. Hotels have specific needs and requirements. The flooring should not only look fantastic but needs to be cost-effective and handle high levels of footfall. With high-traffic areas dealing with hundreds of people a day, your flooring choice is crucial. Keep reading to find out how to select the right flooring and four options for you to consider. 

In this article: 

  • How to Select the Right Hotel Flooring 
  • What is the Best Type of Flooring for Hotels?

How to Select the Right Hotel Flooring 


 

In the hotel industry, the look and feel of the environment is key to creating the right atmosphere. Your flooring needs to look up to standard to welcome guests and make a great first impression. From the walls to the windows and doors to floors, your design choices are crucial. 

Your flooring is arguably the most critical design choice because it’s not just about how the floor looks. It needs to be durable, non-slip, and safe for guests and staff. Getting the right flooring will help you to meet safety standards, maintain cleanliness, and reduce maintenance down the line. 

When choosing your hotel flooring, the first thing you need to consider is the area. Bedrooms have different requirements to the reception area and serve different purposes. Your flooring should be comfortable for guests, especially in hallways and bedrooms. Other factors to consider include: 

  • Sound - think about acoustics and soundproof qualities to ensure your guests stay happy.
  • Safety - flooring should be non-slip, especially with busy staff members rushing about in a restaurant and bar setting. 
  • Hygiene - it’s vital that flooring remains clean and resists stains and smells. 
  • Durability - your flooring should last for years, even with heavy use and footfall. 
  • Aesthetics - your hotel floor should look fantastic and inviting. It should be luxurious yet functional. 

What is the Best Type of Flooring for Hotels?


 

For commercial floorings and hospitality settings, most businesses opt for products that are easy to clean and maintain. You need to factor in the needs of your guests and employees. When it comes to hotel flooring, the area has a massive impact on your choice. Often, the best type of flooring for hotels is a combination of materials. Here are four options to think about. 

1. RVP Vinyl


 

RVP vinyl is the next generation of luxury vinyl that proves a popular option in high traffic areas like hotels, gyms, restaurants, and pubs. The flooring is water-resistant and reduces sound up to 19db. This is an excellent option for a reception area, restaurant, kitchen, or bathroom. You can install RVP vinyl in practically any environment, and it features a huge 0.7mm scratch and stain-resistant layer. 

2. Wood


 

Real engineered wood flooring is a great alternative to solid wood that works in both residential and commercial settings. Engineered wood is compatible with underfloor heating for that luxurious effect. The flooring is ultra-durable and would look fantastic in a reception area. This type of flooring comes in a range of designs and finishes to suit your decor. 

3. Carpet


 

Good quality commercial carpets are commonly used in hotel bedrooms. They tend to be cost-effective and warmer than other types of flooring. On top of this, carpet usually helps to reduce noise, which is very useful in keeping the sound down for other guests. Carpets are also comfortable underfoot when guests are barefoot in bedrooms. 

4. Laminate


 

Another hotel flooring option is modern laminate. It’s a good alternative to real wood flooring. Today’s laminate is a budget-friendly choice yet remains super durable and resilient to work well in most rooms and commercial environments. Egger laminate flooring is easy to install, eco-friendly, and high-quality. 


It’s important to pick the right hotel flooring for your establishment. Your budget, space, and area of the hotel will all play a role in choosing the best flooring. While carpet is a comfortable option for hotel bedrooms, RVP vinyl is a fantastic option for high traffic zones like the reception area. Durability and safety are two key components of any hotel flooring. 

July 27, 2021 — Katie McKay
How to Design the Perfect Home Office

How to Design the Perfect Home Office

Setting up the perfect home office is a big task. Your home office is where you will be spending the majority of your time. A stylish and organised home office increases productivity and helps you power through your to-do list. An ergonomic office environment decreases your risk of repetitive injury and other bodily strains while you work. From your flooring choice to lighting placement, several different factors play a role in designing the perfect home office.  

In this article:

  • Where Should You Put Your Home Office? 
  • 6 Steps for Designing the Perfect Home Office 

Where Should You Put Your Home Office? 



Your home office layout and positioning in your house are essential for starting your day off right. While some people have the luxury of turning a spare bedroom into a home office, others have to rely on creating a small office nook in the corner of the living room. 

If possible, the best place for your home office is a location where you can shut the door. This is especially true for households with small children who struggle to understand when parents are working from home. When you can remove yourself from high-traffic areas, it allows you to cut out the noise and focus on your work.        

6 Steps for Designing the Perfect Home Office 


Whether you work from home full-time or like to spend a few days in the office, setting up the perfect home office is a must. For many people, working from home means sitting on the sofa or working from bed. But this doesn’t help reduce your risk of injury or posture problems. Here are six steps for designing the perfect home office. 

1. Find the Best Spot



The first stage to creating the right home office is to find the best spot. This doesn’t necessarily mean finding a separate room; it can be a cosy nook or an area in your open kitchen and dining room. For some people, finding your home office location is easy as they have a spare room that doesn’t have a use. When space is tight, you have to get much more creative and think about how you can maximise the space you do have. 

2. Buy an Ergonomic Chair and Desk


Your desk and chair choice play a significant role in how ergonomic your home office set-up is. Ergonomic chairs offer back and lumbar support when you’re sitting for long hours. Investing in a supportive chair and desk is crucial for your overall health. Features of a good chair include an adjustable backrest and armrest, height-adjustable, and a 360-degree swivel base. 

3. Install some Storage



An organised home office helps to boost productivity. Install storage into your office space so that you can declutter your desk. Find storage solutions that match your style and design. Think about vertical storage as well as dedicated storage for office supplies. It should be super easy to find everything you need as you work. 

4. Select the Right Flooring



Your flooring choice has a big impact on the style and feel of a room, and your home office is no different. For a statement effect, consider installing parquet flooring with a rich texture. If you prefer subtle colouring, think about a Scandi-inspired flooring like Yonago engineered wood.  

5. Eliminate Distractions



If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room for your home office, the four walls will give you plenty of privacy and help to remove distractions. However, if you’re working in an area without a door, it’s important that you find a way to add some privacy. Think about adding a room divider or adding a curtain to remove distractions from your workspace. 

6. Nail your Lighting 



The best option is to find a space with some natural light. Then add some well-placed lamps you can use as the sun goes down. If you prefer to work in the evenings or early in the morning, you need to think about artificial light and where to place it. You need indirect light that doesn’t cause glare on your screen. 


Your home office should be the perfect combination of style, efficiency, and ergonomic. Not only do you want it to look great, but you want it to function as a productive workspace. Whether you have a small studio space in the living room or an entire spare room to dedicate to your home office, you can get creative and make the most out of what you do have.

July 24, 2021 — Katie McKay
4 Rubber Floor Options for Modern Homes and Commercial Use

4 Rubber Floor Options for Modern Homes and Commercial Use

Rubber flooring is a flexible and modern option that offers complete practicality. Because rubber is naturally hygienic and durable, it’s an ideal solution for a contemporary yet efficient home or commercial space. If you have a high-traffic area, it needs to handle everything you throw at it. For a minimal, modern, and clean finish, here are four rubber floor options to consider. 

In this article: 

 

  • Why Choose Rubber Flooring? 
  • 4 Rubber Floor Options for Modern Homes and Commercial Use  

Why Choose Rubber Flooring?

 Today’s rubber flooring is either made from natural or synthetic materials like recycled rubber tires. Although there are differences in manufacturing methods, most rubber flooring uses pressure and heat to form rubber moulded products. 

There’s a reason you find rubber flooring in large, commercial spaces. But, it can easily have a place in a modern and contemporary home. Rubber flooring rolls and tiles are affordable, long-lasting, and durable. It’s very resilient and is also water-resistant. This means that it’s not susceptible to water and moisture damage. Other benefits of rubber flooring include:

 

  • Low maintenance
  • Eco-friendly and recyclable 
  • Free of PVC 
  • Absorbs sound 
  • Scuff and scratch-resistant 
  • Resistant to mould and mildew
  • Withstand heavy traffic 

4 Rubber Floor Options for Modern Homes and Commercial Use 

Whether you’re upgrading your home or installing new flooring in a commercial space, rubber flooring is a fantastic option. Here are four rubber floor options to inspire your next project.

1. Black Stone Rubber Tiles 

The Black Stone Rubber Tiles are ideal for someone who likes black but needs something just a little different. The grey fleck adds texture to the rubber flooring for an understated appearance. This style is most suitable for schools and public spaces and works well for cafes and hospitality spaces. 

2. Grey Arago Rubber Flooring

 

 The Grey Arago Rubber Floor mimics the appearance of stone for a calm and pure effect. This option works for both residential and commercial spaces. It has the natural charm of stone yet the durability and resistance of rubber. Use this flooring in high-traffic areas like hallways and entryways as it’s super practical. 

3. Geometric Rubber Tiles 

Like all of our flooring, these Geometric Rubber Tiles are free of PVC, phthalate plasticizers and halogens. The matrix-based flooring looks timeless and creates a memorable yet durable look. This is ideal for hallways, common areas, and stairwells. The rubber tiles reduce footfall sound and are extremely slip-resistant. 

4. Minimal Rubber Flooring 

For a super minimal result, the Rubber Uni Tiles are very simple and offer long-lasting performance. The tiles work for both small and larger spaces. What’s great about these tiles is that they come in different colours, so you can create a design that meets the needs of your unique environment. 


Rubber flooring is affordable, durable, and long-lasting. In a family of children and pets with spillages and changing temperatures, it’s an ideal contemporary option. The natural resistance of rubber makes it suitable for commercial use, increasing safety and reducing the risks of slips and falls. 

July 22, 2021 — Richard McKay