Flooring is an integral element of the home and creates the mood for each entire room. The many types of flooring available can make the decision quite daunting. Of primary importance is the general tone of the room, its intended use and the way it fits into the overall decorating scheme of the house. Other major factors to consider in making your decision include maintenance and cleaning, potential traffic, colour and pattern, durability, sound insulation properties, safety, texture, warmth and cost.

As colours available in flooring are more limited, it is often easier to choose the colour of the floor first in the overall scheme. The most restful colour is said to be mid grey, while the primary colours create more excitement and fun. Rooms which become very hot are better with the cool greys, blues and greens or colours with these bases whereas cooler rooms can benefit from the warmth of colours suh as reds, terracottas and yellows.