Home decor: Entryway floors carry a heavy burden

home decorators: Entryway floors carry a heavy burden

As the season of snow boots and slush arrives in much of the country, entryway floors can take a beating.

The spot where we enter our homes can be a tricky one to decorate. It's meant to be a showcase, expressing our style. But the floor must withstand dripping umbrellas, muddy shoes and more.

Los Angeles-based interior designer Betsy Burnham often is approached by clients who want help with entryways. Choosing a floor covering is a priority, she said.

Think replaceable

Burnham and designer Brian Patrick Flynn, founder of decordemon.com, are fans of cork flooring in high-traffic areas.

Cork squares are durable, made from natural wood fibers and can handle moisture. They also absorb sound well and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Another option is FLOR carpet tiles, Flynn says. "You can add color, texture or pattern by laying them out in the desired pattern," he said, "then cutting the end tiles to size."

Flynn also recommends vinyl plank tiles. These inexpensive tiles are thin but durable, and easy to install. They can be mopped clean, and installation is simple, Flynn said.

Think removable

Rugs can be a great way to delineate the space at an entryway, and many styles are washable.

Rather than invest in one expensive rug, Burnham says, buy several that can be swapped out.

Meg Caswell, host of HGTV's "Meg's Great Rooms," suggests shopping for carpet remnants.

Stylish but inexpensive and washable rugs are available online, from Ikea.com to eBay.com or Etsy.com.

Think durable

Caswell often recommends porcelain tiles for entryways. "The minute I say porcelain tile, people think it's going to shatter, that it's fragile," she says. "But really, porcelain tiles are truly the most durable tiles out there."

Think bold

These designers suggest avoiding pale neutrals and solids in favor of slightly bolder colors, patterns, and textures that hide dirt and wear.

Bold florals or sunbursts might not be your taste, says Caswell, but entryways are a great place to "be riskier and push yourself, so you can incorporate a little more of your personality. You're making that statement when someone enters your home."