In this project, I had the opportunity to work with a client who sought to transform their top floor and foyer into a brighter, more refined space. The goal was to replace the dark brown laminate flooring with something that would enhance the aesthetic and functionality of the space. After thorough consideration of materials, the client and I opted for White Sands Smooth Solid Bamboo flooring (SKU 100904648) from Floor & Decor. This choice was designed to reflect more natural light, open up the space, and make any debris or dirt easier to detect—key to maintaining a clean, polished look.
As part of my design process, I ensure that the materials chosen fit not only the client’s aesthetic preferences but also their lifestyle needs. For example, the client desired a floor that was solid, durable, and resistant to daily wear. However, shortly after purchase, we discovered that the specific flooring had been discontinued due to issues with durability—it was engineered rather than solid wood bamboo and susceptible to scratching and cracking. Moving forward, I’ll be sourcing a more durable material for the basement area, which currently has contractor-grade carpeting.
Overcoming Design Challenges
As is common in design projects, challenges arose. We waited nearly two years for the house to settle before installing the new flooring, ensuring structural stability. At around the nine-month mark, the upstairs floors began to shift due to improper sealing around a kitchen door and a dishwasher leak. While the home was under the builder’s warranty, they declined to address the issue. As a result, I brought in a trusted contractor, Ronnie and his team from Falcon Fast Flooring, who expertly addressed the shifted beams and provided a level surface for the installation.
Despite the setbacks, the final result is a beautiful, clean, and functional top floor and foyer that reflect the client’s bold taste for contemporary and bright spaces. We are now exploring different products to ensure the longevity of this new flooring, researching options to protect against future scratches and stains.
Before & After: A Visual Transformation
The photos below showcase the dramatic change that the new flooring has brought to these areas. The before images capture the darker, brownish laminate that once dominated the space, while the after photos reveal the bright, clean look of the white bamboo flooring. Despite the challenges and setbacks, I’m thrilled with how this project is progressing and can’t wait to see the final outcome once everything is complete.
Stay tuned as I continue to navigate the ups and downs of this home design journey. Next on the agenda: finding the perfect flooring for the basement and continuing to refine the top floor’s aesthetic!
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