The classic charm of flagstone flooring - Grand Designs Magazine

The classic charm of natural flagstone flooring

Why well-laid flagstone flooring should be an integral part of any renovation or new-build project

By Caroline Rodrigues |

Whatever the style of your renovation or new-build project, achieving a high-spec finish has to be a priority. Flagstone flooring will transform your home, lending an air of permanence and staying relevant however fashions might change.

At White Hall Flagstones there’s a wide range of natural stone to add quality and value to your project, with options for textures and shades, sizes and laying patterns. The versatile slabs can be used in almost every room in your house as well as extending to the outdoor spaces.

concrete effect flagstone flooring in a large hallway with bespoke timber staircase

Photo: White Hall Flagstones

Choosing a style

With so many types to choose from, it’s easy to find a stone that matches your vision for the floor. Stone has been a popular choice for centuries and it’s just as relevant today. If you’re doing up an older property, high-quality flagstone flooring with plenty of natural variation will fit perfectly with its surroundings. Old Farmhouse Green limestone from White Hall Flagstones has a time-worn appearance that evokes the past, while Seashell limestone, in a rich, creamy tone, has a natural organic feel, thanks to the shells embedded in the tiles. For a contemporary look, Lanesborough limestone, in a muted mid-grey shade would add a subtle, elegant presence to an open plan kitchen/living area.

stone-effect flagstone flooring flowing through a large open-plan family kitchen dining area

Photo: White Hall Flagstones

Surface value

Part of the beauty of stone flooring is that the surface of the tile can be finished in varied ways by polishing, tumbling or brushing for a unique effect. The edges of the tile also have a bearing on its overall appearance. For a rustic appeal, edges can been hand-chipped then tumbled, to add to the distinctive aged appearance. A pillow edge, such as that on the Fontenay French limestone flooring tiles from White Hall Flagstones, gives each slab a cushioned appearance.

stone flagstone flooring in a country cottage kitchen with white cabinets

Photo: White Hall Flagstones

Sizes and laying patterns

The size of tile you choose contributes to finished effect. For a contemporary home, consider large-scale 90cm x 90cm tiles. If you’re renovating an older home, or simply want a farmhouse look, mixed slab sizes, carefully laid using the correct ratio of large and small flagstones, achieve a random effect with timeless appeal. Old Tuscany from White Hall Flagstones has a beautiful textured surface and is available in a mixture of different finishes and sizes so you can create a completely individual stone floor.

white flagstone flooring in a contemporary kitchen with white units and a blue chevron tile splashback

Photo: White Hall Flagstones

Practical benefits

Stone flooring simply gets better with age, adding character to your home as the tiles age. Robust, practical and hardwearing stone can stand up to the rough and tumble of modern life. Dust and pet hair can be simply swept away. The floor will need occasional mopping to clean and protect it, using a cleaning product that’s designed for stone. Re-sealing will be necessary every five to 15 years.

Expert advice

There’s a lot to think about when laying a flagstone floor. Stone tiles must be laid on a smooth, flat subfloor which, if new, will need time to dry before the flagstones can be laid. Underfloor heating must be planned in at an early stage. After installation, the stone must be sealed to protect it. Give the expert team at White Hall Flagstones a call on 01432 870 855 for advice on the right stone for your project and its installation, or click on the link to order your free samples.

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