looking down & loving it

So…you’re in the process of designing your store, and the next big decision is what to do with the floors. It happens to be one of the more costly investments you will make in your retail space, so making the right choice is crucial. And, it’s one of those decisions that you don’t want to regret. Ripping up flooring post- opening is even more costly and time consuming. So here are a few tips on how we do it & love looking down. 

• Know Who You Are: Before you start browsing flooring options, take a minute to remember what your store is all about. Is it a sleek, modern spot, or more of a comfy, rustic hangout? Knowing your vibe will help you pick a floor that vibes right back. For industrial modern interiors, I love using epoxy or poured concrete. More traditional? Exploring tile or engineered hardwood may be a good direction.
• Surviving the Stampede: Let’s be real – retail spaces get a lot of foot traffic. So, whatever you choose, make sure it can handle the hustle without looking beat up. Are you in a location that gets snow/salt/yuck? Make sure your entry way has easily cleanable floors that can handle the mess. You’ve got a business to run, and scrubbing floors all day isn’t part of the plan. Choose a floor that’s low-maintenance and plays nice with your schedule. Entry mats are great, but rarely catch everything. 
• Mix and Match: No one likes a style clash, right? Make sure your flooring plays nice with the rest of your decor. A good-looking, cohesive design is like a magnet for happy customers. Here is a great example where I used a plaid tile to add pattern to the space and mimic the clean lines. 

• Safety First: We want folks to shop without slip-ups, literally. Keep an eye out for slip-resistant options, especially if your store has a history of spills or moisture. A safe floor is a happy floor, and a happy floor means happy customers. Note: High polish marble is rarely the answer.

• What’s Under There? If you’re dying for a poured concrete floor but are on wood joists, its time for a new plan. Some construction underlayment just isn’t built to handle the weight or expansion of certain types of flooring.  Also your climate dictates expansion and retraction needs. Your builder/designer will be able to help you make the best choice.

Picking the right floor is a combo of knowing your style, dealing with the foot traffic, keeping things stylish &  staying safe. Your flooring is a massive part of your design and your day to day operations, so make sure you are weighing all the options before making a huge purchase.