GET THE LOWDOWN

A durable and hardwearing floor is a practical necessity in any kitchen - and a beautiful material can set your design off to perfection

- AMELIA THORPE

RECLAIMED BRICK

A kitchen floor must be durable and preferably easy to maintain, but your choice is not just about practicality it can be a feature that enhances the style of your space, adding character and charm, as the original brick floor in this converted Suffolk barn suggests. Farmhouse kitchens always work well with a combination of new and old or antique elements,' says Helen Parker, creative director of de VOL. If you are lucky enough to have an original brick floor, it may require cleaning and repair to bring it back to life: the surfaces can be porous, allowing a build up of dirt and stains, so, if in doubt, consult a specialist for advice. Or scour architectural salvage yards for reclaimed options.

WOOD

Parquet, herringbone and chevron floors are popular in kitchens as they add interest to otherwise straight lines, while streamlined planks add a sense of space in smaller areas,' says Natalie Mudd, creative director of The Wood Flooring Co. Choose between solid and engineered wood flooring- an engineered wood floor has a top layer of solid wood bonded to a layer of strong plywood and a stabilising counter layer. "This layering balances out the tensions in the wood and prevents it from bending or swelling in areas of changing moisture, such as the kitchen,' explains Natalie. Wood floors do require maintenance and may require re-sealing, re-lacquering or re-oiling.

TILE