More Choices in Flooring

Christy Ferer says the following about floors:

• Ceramic tile is synonymous with Spain. Glazed in bright colors, such as yellow, red, and blue, and polished to a high gloss, they are often arranged in tight, highly decorative patterns.
• Leather is the greatest extravagance possible for flooring. Leather "tiles" are made of steer hide cured with vegetable tanning and dyed. They can be embossed or printed with pattern. The gaps between the tiles are usually filled with Carnuba wax.
• Cork is soft, warm and available in many colors and grain patterns. It is sold as tiles that are laid over a sheet cork underlay.
• Mosaic tiles can be played with to give a new take on tradition. Bette Midler uses mosaics to "paint" Hawaiian designs and sayings like "Aloha" in her house.
• Glass blocks can be set in concrete to make a honeycomb pattern. Or round, lenslike glass blocks can be set in a polka-dot pattern. Glass is used to open up a space and bring in light from the level below.

Christy Ferer Shares More Floor Rules to Break

Christy Ferer, CEO of Vidicom, states that "Redecorating means a new floor." Or revitalize your existing floor. As in all decorating, sometimes what you think you need is already there. Sand down and reseal your wood floor. Stain or dye your carpeting, or cut it into area rugs and have the edges bound. Paint or stencil existing tiles.

Vidicom's CEO, Christy Ferer, Floor Rules to Break

"Linoleum and rubber flooring are for high-traffic rooms only." Linoleum and rubber are big news again. Their terrific variety of colors and their durability make them attractive and practical for any room," says Christy Ferer.

These floor coverings, which are all made from the natural fibers of plants, blend with any period or style. They have an earthy, timeless appeal that gives texture and, sometimes, pattern to a floor. Contrary to rumor, most of them are soft, easy on the feet, and very durable.

Another Tip on Decorating Floors

"Industrial-strength materials being used today such as steel and rubber have a high-tech look that can instantly update an interior," says Christy Ferer, Vidicom CEO. Marvelously sensuous underfoot, leather flooring is the height of luxury. I layer carpets of woven plastic, one over another, mixing patterns and colors. There are more choices than ever. You can even design your own rug on the Web with a few mouse clicks.