Why Harlequin Floors Will Always Be A Good Choice For An Entryway

Harlequin floors offer a playful twist on a timeless design. More than just alternating squares in contrasting colors, the architectural design is meant to grab attention. Once seen in opulent Roman villas, the French palace of Versailles, and countless luxury hotels, harlequin floors are turning up in modern homes as an unexpected design element. Though this type of flooring can work effortlessly in any room, when added to the entryway, the bold pattern instantly sets the stage for the rest of the house as a striking first impression.

Getting the checkered floor trend in your home isn't as difficult or expensive as you'd think. Harlequin floors can be laid at a 90-degree angle for a checkered style or diagonally at a 45-degree angle to create a diamond-like effect. According to flooring experts, you should stick with checkerboard tiles that are 12-by-12 or 18-by-18 inches, but for smaller areas, large tiles, like 24-by-24 inches and 36-by-36 inches can make your space look bigger. So, consider the larger tile if your entryway is on the smaller side. The flooring also comes in a variety of different textures and colors. Nate Berkus has a combination of tile sizes covering his foyer and upstairs. Even one of Joanna Gaines' stylish Fixer Upper renos featured a neutral but bold checkerboard kitchen floor. This pattern seamlessly blends into a variety of home design styles — from traditional to contemporary — making it an uber-flexible option and a must for entryways.

Since the entryway is the first thing people see when they come in, incorporating harlequin-style floors needs to be on your to-do list. But you should know your options. In terms of durability, ceramic and porcelain are your best bets. Natural stone is the most expensive option and the most high maintenance. Although vinyl tiles aren't as durable as these materials, they are the most affordable and the smartest choice for those who want the harlequin look but are trying to stay on budget. 

Peel-and-stick vinyl is the easiest way to DIY the checkered floor tile trend, which can save a lot on installation costs. One of the great things about vinyl is it can also be installed over your existing floor. So, later on down the road if you get tired of looking at it, it's easy to remove. These Floorpops x Chris Loves Julia Bonneville peel-and-stick tiles, for example, mimic the pattern of real marble and don't require special tools to install. They also come in a few different color combinations, from classic black and white to a refreshing jade green, that allow you to fully customize the look to your space.