Finally! Patterned Vinyl Flooring That’s Actually Pretty

Close your eyes. Now, envision a vinyl floor. Does your mind automatically think checkerboard, faux wood, or something retro? You might not think of modern, bright patterns —like the one above — that look more like popular cement tile of late. But, vinyl flooring options have expanded, and you can now get this budget material in fun colors and designs that go well beyond your great grandmother’s old kitchen.

As with Spoonflower‘s fabric, digital printing is to thank for these new vinyl floors. The product has been used mainly in commercial applications — like custom patterns for retail spaces, or trade show floors — but businesses are expanding into the residential market and we’re starting to see more pop up here and there.

Here’s the rub: You may have to order from overseas to get the patterned vinyl you want. While this can add extra time and money to your order, it’s worthwhile when there’s the promise of something special.

Atrafloor (also lead image above) is a British company that ships to the U.S. They make the usual faux marble and wood, but they also have a nice robust selection of modern patterns that looks fresh and new. Since Atrafloor custom prints every order, you can also create your own custom design. Prices are $69 per square meter (or about ten square feet).

According to their website, delivery takes between 4-6 weeks to any location worldwide. Shipping prices are calculated based on location and volume of flooring ordered. North America starts at 44£.

If you want to order from the U.S., check out Graphic Image Flooring, located near Minneapolis. While they don’t have ready-to-go pretty patterned options, they can turn any design or photograph into vinyl flooring, so the sky’s the limit if you want a statement floor. Country Living used their service when they swapped out some awful shag carpet for new gingham-like flooring in a vintage trailer makeover.

If you do go this route, Graphic Image Flooring has guidelines on how to prep the design, addressing resolution and copyright images, so be sure to check that all out before you get started.

Patterned vinyl comes in either sheets or strips that you can either install yourself, or outsource to a professional. Depending on where you get it from, the process is often similar to laying wallpaper, with an adhesive between the floor and vinyl to make sure things stay in place. You need to watch for air bubbles and match the pattern up as you install, so consult the instructions from your vinyl vendor for details on the best methods.