Matching floors
A tasteful flow from inside to outside can be created by using
similar materials across both areas. Examples of outdoor materials that blend well with indoor
flooring include hardy stone-effect tiles and authentic wood-look decking boards, such
as Millboard. These materials mimic their natural counterparts but perform better across both areas
in terms of maintenance, staining and slippage.
The result is a harmonious marriage of natural inspiration and outdoor practicality.
Extend the end
Traditionally, the doorway has marked the division between indoor and outdoor flooring. A simple
yet effective trick is to extend one type of flooring beyond this boundary.
Remember to leave a drainage gap in-between if your external space is paved (unless it is 150mm
below the damp-proof course). If you opt for Millboard decking, you won’t need a drainage space
as long as there is a 10mm gap left between the boards. We also recommend a 10mm space between the house and the deck.
Matching textures and patterns
A floor’s character is defined by its colour, pattern and texture. Choosing one of these elements to reference across an indoor/outdoor design can really help to bring those spaces together. For example, if a kitchen has a wooden floor with boards laid parallel to the door frame, continuing this pattern outside with decking boards will create the desired ‘integrated’ effect, helping to blur the boundaries between garden and home.
These methods and techniques create flawless continuity and soften the edges between indoor and outdoor spaces, cultivating that sought-after ‘integrated’ feel.
