New trends in floor tiles?

Question

I need floor tiles for the kitchen, relatively inexpensive - I was thinking natural stone (as I used Tavertine on the walls in my bathroom and sparkly granite on the floor there) but I canot find anything suitable and relatively inexpensive for my kitchen - everything is £22+ per M2. And I don't want to use ceramic tiles.

So I am wondering - does anyone know new natural stones that are cheaper (something not very widely used) or have any exiting new ideas for floor covering (not wood or carpets or linoleum)

Thanks!

Answer 1

I have just finished a very expensive remodel in my own home.  Sorry to say that there really isn't a "cheap" approach to what you are looking for.  Travertine is nice, tumbled travertine is stunning.  

Your kitchen is one area that you really don't want to go with a cheap alternative.  This is one of the places you want to spend your money.

If you are not comfortable with installing it yourself,  At least do the demolition of the old floor,  That will save a good bit of money in labor.  It would help if you said what kind of floor you already have.

Answer 2

Look into cork flooring.  It comes in a lot of wonderful shades of brown and has great variation to it.  Plus it's sustainable and not any more expensive than regular tile.

Here's a website that has all eco-friendly and sustainable material and they have good information on cork tiles.

http://strawsticksandbricks.com/

(check out the pebble tile too, it'd be a unique floor)

Answer 3

Natural stone is always nice, but there are other less expensive options. For instance a a roll out peg hard wood floor, or an easy to clean laminate tile floor. Or for a more eco friendly option, you should try recycled brick. It is long lasting easy to clean, and cheap. Good luck. Make sure what ever you choose is timeless, goes with the house and is easy to clean.