Design Tips - Urban Concrete Floors

Design Tips to consider when incorporating concrete finishes

Decorative concrete finishes offer a sleek, modern, and versatile foundation for any space, whether it’s a residential home, or commercial environment.. At Urban Floors, we believe that the right design choices can elevate the aesthetic appeal of concrete floors, creating a cohesive and stunning interior. Here are some design tips to help you make the most of your concrete flooring.

Colour Coordination

Our finishes are available in a variety of tones and hues. To create a harmonious look, choose colors for your walls, furniture, and accessories that complement the tone of your concrete floor. Neutral tones like whites, grays, and earth tones work well with most concrete finishes, providing a balanced and sophisticated look.

Texture Play

Incorporate different textures in your decor to add depth and interest to the smooth surface of concrete floors. Soft textiles like rugs, cushions, and upholstered furniture can create a cozy contrast against the look and feel of concrete floors. Natural materials such as wood and woven fabrics also pair beautifully with concrete, enhancing its industrial-chic appeal.

Lighting Matters

Lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting the beauty of concrete floors. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit space that emphasizes the floor’s finish. Floor lamps, pendant lights, and under-cabinet lighting can all help to showcase the unique qualities of your concrete floor, whether it’s polished, stained, or etched.

It is very important to remember that when planning your space, lighting conditions are very important as they will affect the overall colour.
Always consider the following:

Tungsten and Halogen lights are yellowish to orange
Fluorescent and Mercury vapour lights are greenish
Daylight sunlight is white to blue depending on cloud cover
Daylight lighting is intended to replicate ‘white’ sunlight
Whilst the eye-brain system corrects these colours to look ‘white’, the colour of things is changed, sometimes quite dramatically and especially under fluorescent type lights.

Area Rugs

Adding area rugs is an excellent way to define different areas within an open-plan space and add warmth to your concrete floors. Choose rugs with bold patterns or vibrant colors to make a statement, or opt for neutral shades to keep the focus on the floor itself. Rugs not only provide comfort underfoot but also help to break up the expanse of concrete, adding visual interest.

Furniture Selection

Select furniture that complements the modern aesthetic of concrete floors. Sleek, minimalist furniture designs often work best, but you can also mix in vintage or rustic pieces to create a more eclectic look. Metal and glass furniture can enhance the industrial feel, while wooden pieces can soften the space and add warmth.

Greenery and Natural Elements

Introduce greenery and natural elements to soften the starkness of concrete floors. Plants bring life and color into a space, and their organic shapes provide a pleasing contrast to the clean lines of concrete. Consider using a variety of plants in different sizes and types of containers to create a dynamic and inviting environment.

Art and Accessories

Personalize your space by incorporating art and accessories that reflect your style. Large-scale artworks can create a focal point and draw the eye, while smaller decorative items can add layers of detail. Mirrors can also be used strategically to reflect light and make the space feel larger and brighter.

Complementary Finishes

If you’re incorporating other materials like wood, metal, or tile, ensure that their finishes complement the concrete floor. Consistency in finish and tone can create a unified look that ties the room together. For example, pairing a contemporary concrete finish with glossy fixtures and fittings can enhance the modern vibe of the space.

Functional Layout

Plan your room layout to take full advantage of the durability and low maintenance of concrete floors. High-traffic areas can benefit from the hard-wearing nature of concrete, making it ideal for all areas including entryways, kitchens, and living rooms. Design your space to flow naturally, keeping in mind the practical benefits of your concrete flooring.

Maintenance Tips

Lastly, to keep your concrete floors looking their best, follow proper maintenance guidelines. Regular sweeping and mopping will help maintain the floor’s appearance, and using appropriate sealers and polishes can prolong its life and enhance its shine.