We’ve all heard of the feature wall – we've probably even got one of our own – but what about the feature floor? Whether you’re enthralled by dramatic geometric patterns, spellbound by herringbone or mesmerised by lively splashes of colour, these floor finishes offer plenty of inspiration for a design statement that’s oozing with wow factor. From asymmetric tile schemes to optical illusions and painted murals, we’ve rounded up a selection of spectacular flooring schemes to take your breath away.
Transform your floor into a sea of sensational colours and shapes with this stunning vinyl tile flooring from iD Mixonomi. Created specifically for architects and designers, this bright collection provides an eclectic palette of 33 colours and patterns, giving plenty of scope for you to come up with your own design. In addition to its good looks, vinyl offers an easy-to-clean flooring solution for busy homes.
Bring the outdoors in with a dazzling rock pool design that invites you to dream your day away. Rather than using the same repeated pattern across the floor, the image is reproduced across the whole surface of the floor to create a fantastic, ready-made mural. In this bathroom, the fixtures and fittings have been kept simple and understated, allowing the flooring to make the biggest design statement.
These monochrome porcelain tiles from Mandarin Stone come in a random mix of designs, so you have carte blanche to develop your own unique flooring pattern. If you’re considering installing porcelain floor tiles, bear in mind that this material is a fantastic partner for underfloor heating, too.
See more fabulous flooring ideas for your home.
We love how this asymmetric covering transforms this bathroom into a piece of artwork in its own right. Manufactured by Inkiostro Bianco, this floor wallpaper (floorpaper?) comprises two layers: a top veneer of printed vinyl and a back layer of fabric, which allows for easy installation on floors and walls. This highly durable floor treatment is also waterproof, which makes it perfect for splash-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Imbue your home with the warm and summery vibes of the Mediterranean with these traditional Encaustic tiles from Fired Earth. Handmade in Portugal, these colourful units have been crafted using traditional techniques developed by monastic potters in the 12th Century. Tiles are a fantastic low maintenance option, and will only require sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt. Bear in mind that general household cleaners may not be suitable, as they might damage the tile finish.
Step into a lounge with a difference, thanks to this extraordinary optical illusion shell-effect flooring. The covering is made from fibreglass, polyester and nonwoven fabric, for a finish that will stand up to the wear and tear of day-to-day life. Another bonus is that this type of floor surface is easy to clean and scratch resistant.
Hexagon tiles offer plenty of scope for creating cool geometric patterns and if you’re keen to make an even bolder statement you can go for units with colourful patterns on the surface of each tile. Think carefully about the grouting when laying this type of tile. Grout that matches the colour of the tile will create a more subtle effect, whereas a contrasting shade will establish something more dramatic.
This clever scheme uses stone tiles in the wet bathing area and transitions to rich blonde wood in the hallway. When buying stone-effect porcelain tiles, check whether your units are through coloured or if it’s just a surface veneer that features the stone effect. If the colour runs all the way through the tile, any chips and marks will be less noticeable.
If it’s bright colours you’re looking for, a high-quality vinyl floor could offer the perfect solution. For example, this sunny yellow vinyl flooring from Carpetright offsets the teal cabinet fronts beautifully. Plus, modern vinyl is more durable and hardwearing than ever before, so it’s an excellent choice for high traffic areas like the kitchen.
See more cool kitchen flooring ideas that really make the room.
This bathroom evokes irresistible beach vibes via the use of a 3D mural. Also designed and manufactured by Creativespace, this hardwearing product is waterproof, making it a fantastic choice for splash-prone zones like the bathroom or ensuite.
This gorgeous herringbone floor ties together the various shades of blue dotted around the room, as well as introducing cool grey-blue and warm timber for an additional wow factor. As far as stylish hallways go, a spectacular statement floor like this makes an instant impact. As well as scoring high points for aesthetics, the herringbone pattern helps create additional structural stability across the surface of the floor.
If it’s a dramatic pattern that you’re after, look no further than this eye-catching vinyl flooring from Atrafloor. Inspired by the clean lines and simple geometry of the Bauhaus movement, this waterproof vinyl makes a cool style statement and is an excellent choice for both kitchens and bathrooms.
You’d be forgiven for thinking that this stylish surface was made from porcelain or ceramic tiles but it's actually a vinyl design by Inkiostro Bianco. Before laying the product, make sure the floor is prepared and any imperfections repaired to establish a surface that’s smooth and free from dirt.
Recreate a day at the beach with this realistic pebble effect from British Ceramic Tile. As well as bringing the outdoors in, the ceramic material has a natural resistance to humidity, unlike materials such as wood. Thanks to the waterproof outer glaze, they’re splash-proof, too, making them an excellent choice for the bathroom.
See more cool coastal decorating ideas to give your home a fresh look.
This stone tile floor from Fired Earth is inspired by the ornamental terrazzo floors of Venice, Italy and uses time-honoured manufacturing techniques to establish an authentic look that oozes wow factor. When installing any stone tiles, it’s vital to dedicate plenty of time to prepare your subfloor. Make sure it’s clean, dry and free from dust or grease before getting started.
These Pacific Water effect tiles from Harvey Maria bring underwater adventures right into the home and are sure to inspire fun and games amongst your little ones. If you’re planning to lay vinyl flooring anywhere in the home, consider investing in protective furniture pads for heavy chairs and tables that could potentially damage the surface if dragged across the floor.
Transform your bedroom floor into a unique masterpiece with a hand-painted mural. This intricate pattern was developed using metallic paints, however, whether you’re keen to create a painted mural or a mosaic pattern, it’s worth bringing in the experts. A magnificent creation like this will take considerably more planning and expertise than your standard floor.
With their distinctive veining inspired by natural Carrara marble, these porcelain tiles from Walls and Floors are an opulent choice for a chic monochrome bathroom. Plus, porcelain offers a durable and lightweight alternative to heavy stone.
We have fallen in love with this dreamy Moroccan-inspired scheme that uses a colourful ribbon of pattern running seamlessly across the floor and up the wall. Available from British Ceramic Tile, the Parian range comes in four different patchwork prints all of which have been used in this eye-catching display that's the perfect way to jazz up a white bathroom suite.
The designers at Creativespace unite photographic finishes with glass fibre wallpaper, to produce ready-made floor murals that are sure to make anyone’s jaw drop. This incredible optical illusion printed mural gives the effect of a waterfall right beneath your feet and will give any room a real wow-factor. Are you brave enough to get out of bed?
Herringbone tiling meets contemporary colour in this beautiful ombre-effect floor. Porcelain U-Color tiles in graduating shades of blue, turquoise and white are used here, but you can choose any three shades that work with your scheme. Each of the tiles also features intentional imperfections to mimic the natural appearance of wood.
Take a tip from the Romans and choose this geometric pattern rendered in monochrome mosaic tiles. The tiny squares of ceramic add an extra level of detail to the floor, while the limited colours keep the look clean and modern.
Read more: Pretty in pink! How to decorate with this year's hottest hue