I have never really thought of concrete floors as an option for my projects. Typically, I’m renovating a residential space and wood and tile make the most sense. But, right now I have a couple of commercial projects that have allowed me to consider looks that I may not have considered in the past. One of those looks is concrete flooring.
As it turns out, there are many benefits to concrete flooring. First, the maintenance is relatively easy. This is especially important in a commercial space that will get a lot of foot traffic. Second, the cost can be much lower than wood or tile floors. Third, concrete floors – even those that are aged and cracked – seem to get better with age. Finally, because they can be fabricated in nearly any color with a variety of effects, they work well in many different settings.
It should come as no surprise that in residential spaces concrete floors work especially well in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. These are high traffic areas that require easy clean up. Concrete floors are easy to maintain and can take a beating.
Image courtesy of ApartmentTherapy.com
Concrete can also transition well into other types of flooring. In the image above, thin brass strips are used to ease the transition to wood flooring as well as add an air of elegance.
My favorite look with concrete flooring is the inclusion of decorative brass to create a bit of visual interest. The brass takes the concrete up a notch to create a truly elegant look.
I absolutely adore the abstract nature of the brass detail in the floor above.
I will definitely be using concrete in my next commercial project but I am also seriously considering it for the right residential space. It is a beautiful, versatile look. I wish I would have thought of it sooner.
