Budget Management for Flooring

Recently we worked with a client who had a seemingly unlimited budget for furniture and fixtures. But with the recent economic indicators, the husband indicated that he wanted to remain practical about their flooring choices. He wanted a look, but a practicality since their flooring was “to be walked on” and the most important thing for him was the first impression when the family entertained.

The couple also stated that this flooring selection had to last for a generation as this was to be the last major renovation prior to retirement.

After a lengthy budget discussion, our design team suggested the following:

• Main level/public spaces: wide plank custom hardwood flooring with corner trim and ribbon inlay detail ($$$$$)
• Second level/private spaces-bedrooms: narrow plank hardwood flooring ($$$)
• Basement level/entertainment space: engineered hardwood flooring ($)

The client was very appreciative of these options and agreed to use our recommendations. We installed a wideplank Carlisle custom hardwood floor on the main level. It was custom-cut and quite unique in its pattern, stain and creates a strong visual statement for visitors. The majority of the budget was invested on this floor.

The bedrooms are located on the second level and few will ever have access to this private domain. However, your visitors will assume that the main level floor selection is used throughout the home, so you are able to get the “association” without budget allocation, thus saving you approximately one-third of your budget.

And finally, the basement level was renovated, but rather than select a custom floor, we suggested the use of an inexpensive, but attractive engineered floor. This was due to our client’s statements about the potential for ambient moisture and flooding in the area…and we believe that an engineered floor can be more easily cleaned or replaced if damaged as a result of water.

Consider hardwood floors for wellness, beauty and durability, and you will be surprised at the many options available in the market.

Robin Wilson is an eco-friendly interior designer and a lifestyle brand with products sold at Bed Bath & Beyond.com. She is an ambassador to the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America and author of Kennedy Green House (Greenleaf, 2010). She regularly appears on the speakers circuit, on television and offers commentary in print on wellness, sustainability and allergy & asthma issues. Learn more at www.robinwilsonhome.com