What Do People Put on Their Foyer Floor?

Stone

• Stone flooring such as marble, granite and slate provides a hard-wearing, waterproof surface with natural beauty. Options are many. Marble, for example, is used in very formal, elegant entryways. Marble tile can be used to create different patterns. It can be laid on the diagonal, a black-and-white checkerboard pattern or with a narrow border. Slate has an earthy, rustic look and also comes in a variety of colors and sizes. For large spaces, 18-by-18-inch tiles can be used. In smaller areas, 12-by-12 tiles often are used. Soften the look with an area rug, suggests interior designer Tere Bresin.

Tile

• Ceramic tiles are a practical choice for entry areas. They tend to be less expensive and require less maintenance than marble and other natural stones. Some ceramic tiles, such as slate and travertine, closely resemble authentic stone tiles. A benefit, says Bresin, is that they require little maintenance other than damp mopping. Tiles can adjoin hardwood floors in other rooms without appearing out of place.

Hardwood

• Hardwood is a classic choice for an entryway. Wood provides a warm tone, cushions the feet and provides a sense of continuity when the adjoining rooms have hardwood floors. For a homey look, stencil a design around the perimeter or center of the entryway floor. Wood can also be taped off into squares and painted or stained alternating colors. One concern with hardwood flooring is that water should be wiped away quickly, so that it doesn't mar the finish. Bresin cautions that pet owners should choose another type of flooring, because animals can leave scratches on hardwood floors.

Carpet

• Carpet is another option for a foyer floor. It can provide added design dimension with pattern, color and texture. Soft underfoot, carpet muffles sound and softens the look of an entryway, according to Sage Blossom Consulting of Ridgway, Colorado. However, entryway carpeting should be primarily for decorative purposes. Mats should be placed outside to catch dirt, the World Floor Covering Association recommends.