Commercial Design: 10 Questions on How to Mix and Match Flooring (Plus a Bonus!)

Flooring plays a critical role in the functionality and aesthetics of commercial spaces. In recent years, there’s been a growing trend toward mixing and matching different flooring types to create dynamic and visually engaging environments.

But how do you blend various flooring options effectively? What factors should designers consider when planning such installations?

To illuminate this topic, we spoke with Oxana Dallas, Principal Designer for Commercial Flooring for AHF Contract®. Oxana offers valuable insights into the art of mixing flooring, from understanding how different materials can define spaces to ensuring a seamless transition between them.

In this Q&A, she shares her expertise on balancing form and function while considering practical considerations. Whether you’re designing for healthcare, hospitality, or education, Oxana’s advice will offer a different perspective to consider when creating spaces.

Let’s dive into her thoughts on how to mix and match commercial flooring successfully.

1. Why would you choose to mix flooring?

Mixing flooring types is about functionality and aesthetics. Each room or space has its own set of requirements: durability, acoustics, comfort, and appearance. Mixing different flooring materials allows you to address these unique needs while enhancing the overall design.

It also can help define distinct zones within an open layout, like pairing plush carpeting in lounge areas with resilient LVT in high-traffic corridors. This approach makes the design more visually interesting and highly functional.

2. How can mixing flooring help define spaces?

Mixing flooring creates visual cues that subtly guide people through a space. For example, using LVT plank with a soft textile look as an accent within a larger wooden-look LVT floor can signal a cozy break area.

Blending different textures and colors allows you to create natural pathways, direct attention, manage traffic flow, and define boundaries without needing walls. This method works exceptionally well in open-plan offices to designate meeting areas, workstations, or collaborative zones without disrupting the overall flow.

3. What should you take into consideration before you design and mix?

Before mixing flooring, it’s essential to visualize the outcome holistically. Consider how different collections work together, not just aesthetically but also in performance. Ensure that the materials you choose complement the space’s function.

Are you designing for a healthcare facility that requires slip resistance and hygiene or a hospitality environment that demands luxury and durability?

Also, plan for the practical side: key technical factors to consider are matching thicknesses for smooth transitions, subfloor conditions, and ease of installation.

4. What roles do texture and color play when combining different flooring?

Texture and color are essential tools in defining spaces and enhancing the functionality of commercial environments.

Color harmony is critical to ensuring that different colors work well together in a space. A unified color palette can create visual continuity across different flooring materials while still allowing for varied textures to enrich the space.

Delineating spaces through contrasting textures and colors helps distinguish different areas within open floor plans, such as defining break rooms from workspaces in an office or setting apart waiting areas from hallways in healthcare environment.

Wayfinding and zoning are enhanced by using color and texture. Color contrasts can intuitively guide users through the space, directing foot traffic to specific areas and highlighting key zones like reception desks, collaboration spaces, or emergency exits.

The chameleon power of certain textures and patterns can cleverly mask dirt and wear, making them efficient choices for high-traffic areas without sacrificing aesthetics.

Finally, using color as an accent point can highlight focal areas or create specific moods. A vibrant hue within a neutral setting can energize a space or add warmth, ensuring the flooring becomes a functional and aesthetic element that aligns with the design intent.

6. How do you ensure a smooth transition between different flooring types?

Ensuring smooth transitions is both an art and a science. Visually, designs should be harmonious, allowing the eye to move seamlessly from one flooring type to another without jarring changes in pattern or texture.

Technically, the thickness of each flooring type should be as close as possible to avoid awkward or unsafe step-ups. When differences in thickness are unavoidable, subtle transition strips or ramps may be used to ensure safety and maintain a clean look.

Subfloor preparation is critical—leveling and smoothing the base will prevent future issues and ensure a flawless, long-lasting transition.

7. What are some helpful hints and best practices when mixing flooring – before, during, and after?

Before Installation

Future-proof your design by choosing versatile materials that will meet the space’s needs for years to come, considering durability and adaptability to changes. Select materials that hold up in high-traffic or high-moisture areas while maintaining visual appeal.

During Installation

Ensure smooth, aligned transitions between flooring types to prevent wear and enhance aesthetics. Work with skilled installers who understand the complexities of mixing flooring materials.

After Installation

Create a plan that addresses each material’s specific upkeep needs to ensure long-term performance. Use mats or rugs in high-traffic zones to preserve the flooring and maintain its look.

9. What are some common mistakes to avoid?

A common mistake when mixing flooring is overlooking the thickness of different materials. If they don’t align, you may have uneven surfaces that can cause tripping hazards or require costly adjustments.

Another issue is neglecting the room’s purpose. Mixing materials unsuited to the space’s purpose can lead to problems like premature wear, water damage, or safety concerns. For instance, placing carpeting in a high-moisture area or using fragile materials in a high-traffic zone should be avoided.

10. Are you seeing any trends in mixed flooring designs for commercial spaces?

Yes. Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, significantly impacts flooring choices.

Designers increasingly opt for materials that evoke natural elements—such as wood-look LVT paired with stone-effect ceramic tiles—to foster environments that promote well-being, reduce stress, and improve productivity.

Another growing trend is mixing bold colors with muted tones to delineate spaces for different activities. For example, bright and stimulating flooring in educational or creative office spaces can highlight collaborative zones, while more subdued flooring helps define areas for quiet focus.

Additionally, there’s an emerging trend toward more daring combinations of colors and patterns within a single installation, allowing for greater visual interest and dynamic design solutions.

Bonus Question – How can sustainable practices be applied when mixing and matching vinyl flooring?

When mixing and matching different types of vinyl flooring, sustainability can play a significant role in your design choices.

One approach is selecting eco-friendly vinyl options that contain recycled content or are designed for recyclability at the end of their lifespan. By mixing different vinyl collections that meet these sustainability standards, you can create a design that’s both visually appealing and environmentally responsible.

Additionally, when pairing vinyl flooring types, consider those with high durability and low maintenance needs. This helps reduce the long-term environmental impact by minimizing the frequency of replacements and cutting down on the use of harsh cleaning chemicals.

Sustainable mixing strategies allow you to design dynamic, functional spaces while keeping environmental considerations in mind.

AHF Contract® – Your Source for Commercial Flooring Solutions

Mixing and matching flooring in commercial spaces is a powerful way to enhance your design’s functionality and aesthetics. As Oxana Dallas has shared, the right combination of texture, color, and material can define spaces, guide traffic flow, and create a visually cohesive environment that meets the needs of any space.

At AHF Contract®, we offer flooring solutions tailored to your commercial design needs. To learn more or find the perfect flooring for your project, use our locator to find a representative near you.

Let AHF Contract® help you bring your design vision to life with innovative and durable flooring options.