Ideas and keys to combining two types of flooring

Combining two types of flooring is a trend in interior design. But it is also a big challenge. The flooring plays a fundamental role in the final perception of the space, which is why the choice of material, colour, its finish and the transition between spaces is so important. The harmonisation of all the elements is key to achieve an aesthetically attractive and functional space.

And even more so if we have an open-plan space in which different atmospheres are shared, as playing with two types of flooring can help us to delimit spaces or highlight certain areas. However, when combining two types of flooring, the same objective should always be pursued: to achieve a harmonious transition.

In this article, as experts in ceramic flooring, we are going to explain how to combine two types of flooring depending on the material, the colour or the space they are to occupy. We will also explore all the keys to achieve the best result and, above all, many examples that can serve as inspiration for you. Let's get started!

Combining two types of flooring: all the keys you need to consider

1. Know the different types of flooring. Before starting any flooring combination project, it is essential to understand the individual characteristics of each of the flooring types you are going to use, as knowing them will allow you to make informed decisions on how to combine them effectively according to the environment in which they are to be used.

2. Assess the needs of the floor. Related to the above, it is also essential to know the needs and intended uses of the space. Is it an outdoor space? Is it a high traffic room? Does it generate humidity? By understanding how the space will be used, we can determine which types of flooring will be most suitable and how best to combine them.

3. Create smooth transitions. When combining two types of flooring it is important to create smooth transitions between them to avoid visual clutter. A smooth and cohesive appearance between the two floors is vital for a pleasing aesthetic.

4. Consider aesthetics. By choosing the right materials and considering how they will look together, we can create a visually appealing and harmonious space. This may involve selecting floors that share similar colours, textures or patterns, or intentionally using contrasting materials to create an interesting visual effect.

5. Height. In addition to the colour, texture or finish, it is also important to know the thickness of the floor, in order to know its height and to be able to conceal the unevenness if necessary.

6. Think about functionality. It is not all about aesthetics and it is also important to consider the functionality of the combined floors. For example, in high-traffic areas, it is crucial to choose durable, easy-to-clean materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. Similarly, in gardens or outdoor areas, we must ensure that the flooring selected is suitable to withstand inclement weather or the growth of vegetation around it.

Ideas for combining two different floors

As mentioned above, combining two different types of flooring in one space can be an exciting way to add visual interest and functionality to any space. By fusing textures, colours and materials, we can create unique and dynamic environments that reflect our personal style and meet our needs. Below we will look at different ideas depending on the material, the space we are talking about or the aesthetic we want to achieve, giving you inspiration for your own design projects.

Combining two floors depending on the material

It is very important to be clear about the flooring material, as it is not the same to opt for two floors of the same material as for completely different floors, as, with the latter, we must also take into account other factors such as thickness or durability.

Combining two different floor materials

One of the most common combinations of two types of flooring is the union of vinyl flooring (imitation wood) with porcelain tiles. With this combination, the natural essence and warmth of wood is achieved with the durability and resistance of the tiles. In addition, this mix offers infinite possibilities of combinations, as porcelain tiles come in a multitude of colours and designs.

In this image, we can see two of our Click&Floor series combined with plain-coloured floors, such as those of our Chicago series, or with geometric patterns in black and white, such as the one offered by the Buckingham piece.

Chevron Natural + Buckingham | Roble Natural + Chicago Exa Olive + Chicago Exa White Cotton

Combining the same material

One way to avoid complications when it comes to combining two floors is to opt for the same material, such as porcelain tile flooring, for example. Their wide variety of patterns, colours and finishes offers almost unlimited possibilities of combinations, and the final decision will depend on each person's taste. Our Exa or Chicago series, for example, are conceived and designed to reinvent the concept of tile combinations and design spaces that stand out for their style.

Chicago Ginger + Olive + White Cotton | Exa Black + White

Combining two types of flooring depending on the space

A bathroom is not the same as a kitchen or a high-traffic area. That's why floor combinations also vary according to the space they occupy. In the following, we are going to detail ideas depending on whether it is inside or outside a house or project.

In indoor spaces

The most typical thing within a home and its interior space is to create combinations of floors between the kitchen and the living room and between the bathroom and the bedroom. This transition is applied when the space is open-plan and the aim is to delimit each area without interfering with the space in a more noticeable way.

However, it is also very interesting to combine floors within the same room. In this way, the space is endowed with dynamism and style, achieving a very personal and careful design. Whether in the bedroom, living room, kitchen or bathroom, this combination of different floors gives us the opportunity to separate different parts of the design (for example, the shower tray from the rest of the bathroom) and play with colours and different tile patterns.

This creates designs that bring vitality and rhythm to interiors. Our Doria, Gaudí, Saudade or Exa series are perfect for combining different pieces or even with others that imitate stone or marble, such as the Amazonite series.

Naxos + Doria Black + Doria Grey

Mila + Gaudí Marengo

Porto + Saudade Azul

Exa Forest + Amazonite Pearl Satin 90x90

This last room in a house is, without a doubt, a space in which the mixture of tiles and colours takes on special importance. Here you can consult how to combine tiles in a small bathroom or how to include tiles with a marble finish, a guaranteed success!

In outdoor spaces

The first thing to bear in mind when choosing the combination of tiles for outdoor spaces is that they should be designed for outdoor use, i.e. that they should withstand the weather, both sun and rain and/or snow, and that they should be non-slip, especially if we are talking about swimming pools.

In this sense, we will not have the same possibilities for dressing up a terrace as for dressing up the pool beach. In this sense, it is a trend to decorate terraces with imitation hydraulic tiles in combination with imitation terracotta tiles.

Gaudi Canela + Rambla | Terracota Cotto + Terracota Decor Cotto

On the other hand, to combine tiles in swimming pools at Dune we have a winning bet: Pietrasanta and Tahiti. Two independent collections that together achieve exceptional value. Both with anti-slip finishes, they are perfect for this type of project that must combine aesthetics and safety.

Pietrasanta Light Grey Anti-Slip 90x90 y 45x90 + Tahiti Emerald Anti-Slip

Floor type combinations according to aesthetics

Play with textures

Combining different textures can add dimension and depth to any space. For example, you can combine tiles in a plain colour with others that, for example, remind us of traditional terrazzo, as is the case in this bathroom. Chicago Terrazzo and Chicago Exa Ocean come together to offer a bathroom with personality and magnetism.

Chicago Terrazo + Chicago Exa Ocean

Create colour gradations

Experiment with different shades and gradations of colour to create a smooth and harmonious transition between two types of spaces. For example, in this terrace, the earthy, more neutral shade takes centre stage, creating a cosy feeling of continuity with the interior, but at the same time adding other tiles from the same series with touches of colour to give dynamism and playfulness.

Agadir Cotto Oscuro Mate + Lago + Niebla + Selva

A tile mosaic

Tile mosaics are a versatile and creative way to combine different types of flooring. You can use tiles of contrasting colours and shapes to create interesting geometric patterns on the floor, adding a touch of style and personality to any room. Series such as Valencia are perfect for achieving this effect, as they are made up of both plain and floral tiles that create geometric patterns.

Turia + Valencia Azul y Blanco

Hexagonal tiles as a focal point

Hexagonal tiles offer a unique way to add character and style to any space. Their distinctive geometric shape can be used as a focal point in the combination of two different floor types. The example in the picture combines different pieces from our Berlin series (both floors and walls) and creates a very distinctive, jungle-like style.

Berlin Exa Aquamar Matt + Lotus

In short, combining two different types of flooring offers endless creative possibilities to enhance any space. Whether you're looking to create a smooth transition between two areas or add a touch of style and personality to your home, these ideas will help you get inspired and make the most of your design projects - don't be afraid to experiment and let your imagination run wild!