The design and dimension of living spaces evolves into furnishing and decoration; involving the selection and application of materials, textures and tones that constitute the decorated shell. Its three key elements are: ceiling, walls and floor.
Flooring is the most basic shell element in lieu of a new structure, or the renovation or re-modelling of an interior shell. Not only does it set the foundation for the decorative palette, but also enables any given interior to efficiently serve its purposes. A floor that is both appealing and functional aids in the users’ quality of living but also adds aesthetic and intrinsic value.
Modern flooring trends involve a host of options, from rustic to sparsely contemporary and from hard to soft floors, involving both natural and synthetic materials. The floor itself can be laid or clad with hard and / or soft covering. Options include: stone, marble, travertine, ceramic / porcelain tiles, natural clay tiles, quartz / resin compounds, cement, stainless steel, wood, wood / rattan / bamboo composites, simulated wood, coir, sisal – and soft floors such as carpeting, carpet tiles and modern-day vinyls.

So, what are the vital considerations in well-designed floors?

Says Pieter Pretorius of Ferreira’s Decor World: ‘Ideally, it’s a case of application, resulting in durability and longevity. Yet, the floor should please various different senses – it must look and feel good – it should be a palette for your life. Further, all flooring has its place and function, as long as it has been used for the correct application there should be no problems.’
In South Africa, the tile revolution began in the 1980’s when Italtile pioneered Italian imports. Terracotta tiles became de rigueur but there were more than a few bad experiences with unsealed tiles in heavy traffic flow and exterior areas. Subsequently, the ‘Tuscan look’ was spawned, a style that has dominated developments in major SA centres. Today however, terracotta natural clay tiles are rarely used, ceramics and porcelain replicas having taken their place.While contemporary tile materials and finishes are a major focus, more formal and decorative floor options are taking advantage of various technological advances.

July/August 2010 Issue

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