Checkerboard Floors And Creative Decorating

The checkerboard floor for some is a nightmare, and for others they say, "bring it on!" This type of flooring has been around for a long time. Trends come and go in interior design.

There are many different decorating ideas to blend in complimentary color tones, and make this so called nightmare into a new and exciting room.

For some of you, this look may be an idea that you have been thinking about, but not sure how to incorporate colors, accents, and accessories. I wanted to share with you some color tones and ideas on taking that checkerboard and create a stunning look in a room.

The design in this flooring is one that can drive you nuts, or can be used as a focal point in a room. This black and white pattern is seen in kitchens, laundry rooms, family or entertainment rooms, hallways and also some business environments.

Take a look at this photo. I love the blending in of the floor with the stairway. The wood tone stairs accent the black and white.

What really balances out this interior space is the black metal spindles on the stairway. Eloquent, yet shows the homeowners personality. White walls giving the area a crisp and organizational look. Great idea for any foyer or stairway.

There are a couple of ways to go about decorating your room. One of the first steps I like to work with is the idea of doing a checkerboard theme base room. Decide on a theme for the room, using the black and white floor. There are a few ideas that come to mind. If you are looking at your kitchen area, why not do a cafe style kitchen.

The red-orange tone can light up the black and white floors. Use these colors in curtains, tablecloth, napkins, candles, etc... Paint your walls in a lighter red-orange tone. A great idea is to use a small stripe with black, white, and the red-orange tones in the curtains or other accessories. These colors will compliment each other.

A great place to shop for your accents and accessories is right here at our Inside Out Decorating Store. Check out all the variety of items that I have picked out that may get your creative juices flowing. Feel free to stop back anytime.

• Use the floor as the focal point.


• Create a fun and exciting look using another bold color. Red - orange tone comes to mind.


• Think about a little European flare with a possible mural on a wall.


• A round glass table and matching stools or chairs.


• Counter tops done in a mosaic or granite would do well, or a light red-orange tone.


• Display your favorite bottle of wine with decorative glasses on an accent table or the counter top.


• Hang different size baskets on a wall or collectable pictures of different cafe scenes, or other favorite topics..


• Consider going with the black or stainless steel appliances.