A floor often runs through the whole house, and a wall sets the mood of a room. What suits best depends on the space: a bathroom asks for something different than a living room.

Marble and natural stone

Natural stone is unique per slab and lasts a long time. It feels cool underfoot, which goes well with underfloor heating. It does need care: sealing, and cleaning with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner.

Laminate

Laminate gives the look of wood for a lower budget and is hard-wearing. It is less suited to wet rooms: standing water can make the joints swell.

PVC

A PVC floor is water-resistant, feels warmer than stone and dampens sound. That makes it suitable for kitchens and, depending on the type, for bathrooms too.

Comparing samples

  • Look at samples in daylight and under lamps: colours shift.
  • Put floor, wall and worktop side by side, not apart.
  • Large-format tiles mean fewer joints and a calmer look.
  • Do you have underfloor heating? Ask whether the material suits it.