Surface matters

Above: Hardwearing flooring is a must in utility or boot rooms as they are high-traffic areas that are in frequent use. Durable, and featuring natural striations, solid stone is a lovely flooring choice for a period home provided it is non-porous or has been sealed to protect from staining. For a rustic look, consider limestone tiles that have been tumbled to give a classic flagstone finish, such as these Seasoned Buscot limestone tiles, from £114.48 per m² at Artisans of Devizes, fitted in a beautiful utility space designed by Sims Hilditch.