Using multi material flooring installations in Commercial Interiors

Monthly Column By Emilio Mudrak

When designers ask me to help balance floors and finishes across a commercial project, one of my first conversations is always about material storytelling. I always ensure every surface contributes to the projects narrative.

In my experience, the best schemes today don’t simply rely on a single material aesthetic; they mix materials thoughtfully to create depth and meaning in a space.

What I’ve observed across workplace and hospitality interiors is that porcelain, engineered wood, metal and soft textiles each bring distinct qualities that, when combined, elevate both function and experience.

A continuous porcelain floor might give durability and visual calm, while wood zones signal warmth. Using both side by side helps define circulation, introduce social spaces and outline natural variation subtly.

I always remind specifiers that it is best to start with a clear material hierarchy, starting with a base surfaces (porcelain / timber) and then add your feature / accent materials.

Wood and textured porcelain often perform beautifully together because a lot of ranges produced now share warm undertones while feeling tactilely different.  

For me, the power of a well‑mixed palette lies not just in how it looks, but how it feels underfoot and in memory. Materials should complement each other, rather than compete, so that the overall environment feels intentional and complete, not messy!

Written by Emilio Mudrak, Director of Mudrak & Sons