How to Choose the Right Concrete Finish for Your Interior Design

Concrete floors have long been a staple in industrial and commercial settings, but their versatility and style have made them a popular choice for interior design in homes as well. With various concrete floor finishes available, they offer endless possibilities for adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal to any room.

Whether you’re looking to create a minimalist industrial vibe, a sleek modern aesthetic, or something a little more rustic and textured, the right concrete finish can completely transform a space. Understanding the different types of finishes available and how they can affect the look and feel of your room is key to making an informed decision.

In this blog, we’ll explain the key factors to consider when selecting an internal concrete finish, from colour and texture to maintenance and functionality, ensuring your choice aligns perfectly with your interior design goals.

Before we dive into the specifics of selecting the right finish, it’s worth noting why concrete floors are becoming an increasingly popular choice for interior design:

• Durability: Concrete is known for its strength and longevity, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or spaces that require a robust, long-lasting floor.
• Low Maintenance: Concrete floors are easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep them looking great.
• Versatility: From polished and smooth to textured or stained, concrete finishes can be tailored to suit any style, making them a perfect option for a variety of interior design themes.
• Eco-Friendly: Concrete can often be sourced locally, and refinishing existing concrete floors rather than replacing them with new materials can reduce your environmental footprint.
  

Now that we’ve covered why concrete is a great option, let’s take a closer look at how to choose the right finish for your specific needs.

The first step in selecting the right concrete floor finish is considering the functionality of the space. Different finishes can impact the durability, slip-resistance, and overall performance of the floor, so it’s essential to match the finish to the room’s usage.

• Living Areas: For spaces such as living rooms or hallways, a polished concrete finish works beautifully. Polished concrete floors are sleek, reflective, and easy to clean—perfect for creating a modern, low-maintenance space.
• Bathrooms: In wet areas like bathrooms, you’ll want to prioritise non-slip finishes. A textured or matte finish can help prevent accidents while maintaining a stylish and modern look.
• Kitchens: Kitchens often require finishes that can withstand heavy foot traffic and spills. Sealed concrete is a good choice here, as it’s both durable and stain resistant, ensuring longevity in a high-use area.
  

Concrete can be designed to complement almost any interior design style, from industrial chic to contemporary elegance. The key to choosing the right finish lies in understanding how the colour, texture, and gloss level can influence the room’s aesthetic.

• Colour: Concrete finishes are available in a wide range of colours. If you're after a more natural look, a grey or beige concrete floor works well with most styles. For a bolder statement, you can use stained concrete or even coloured overlays to bring unique character to the room.
• Texture: Concrete finishes come in various textures, from smooth and polished to rough and patterned. Polished concrete offers a sleek, reflective surface that works beautifully in modern homes, while a broomed finish provides a more rustic, textured surface perfect for outdoor areas or traditional-style interiors.
• Gloss Level: The sheen on a concrete floor can significantly impact its overall appearance. High-gloss finishes create a contemporary, shiny look, while matte or satin finishes add warmth and subtlety. The gloss level you choose will also affect how easy the floor is to clean—higher gloss finishes are easier to wipe down and maintain.
  

While concrete is inherently durable, the maintenance of the floor can vary depending on the finish you choose. It’s essential to consider the level of maintenance required to keep your concrete floor looking great long-term.

• Polished Concrete: This finish is relatively low-maintenance, as the polished surface is smooth and resistant to dirt and stains. However, it may require periodic sealing to protect it from spills and wear.
• Textured Concrete: Textured finishes, such as broomed or trowelled concrete, may require more maintenance to keep them clean, especially if they’re used in high-traffic areas. Regular cleaning and occasional resealing will help preserve their look.
• Stained or Coloured Concrete: If you choose to stain or colour your concrete floors, keep in mind that the finish may fade over time. To maintain the rich hues, you’ll need to apply protective coatings and ensure proper sealing.
  

The cost of a concrete floor finish can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of finish you choose. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:

• Basic Concrete Finishes: For a simple broomed finish or smooth, polished concrete, costs are typically lower due to the straightforward installation process.
• Speciality Finishes: More intricate designs, such as stained concrete or decorative overlays, can increase the overall cost, as these require additional preparation and labour.
• Polished Concrete: Although more expensive upfront, polished concrete provides long-term savings due to its durability, low maintenance, and minimal upkeep costs.

It’s important to assess your budget before selecting a finish to ensure it aligns with both your design vision and financial considerations.

If you’re aiming for an eco-friendly home design, concrete flooring can be an excellent choice due to its longevity and low environmental impact. However, it’s important to choose sustainable finishes, such as water-based sealers and low-VOC products, which contribute to a healthier indoor environment.

Choosing the right concrete floor finishes is an essential step in achieving your ideal interior design. Whether you’re after a polished, reflective surface or a more textured, rustic look, concrete offers flexibility, durability, and style that can fit any home or business. By considering the room’s function, aesthetic needs, maintenance requirements, and budget, you can ensure that your concrete finish complements your space perfectly.

For internal concrete finishes that are both stylish and functional, Concrete Colour Solutions provides expert guidance and installation services to help you achieve the look you desire. Whether it’s polished concrete for your living room or textured finishes for outdoor areas, we’re here to bring your vision to life.

Contact us today to discuss your concrete finish options and get started on transforming your space.