minimalist style?

Question

hi

I am moving into a new apartment which has no flooring. At the moment it just has smooth concrete on the floor. Would it be possible to just paint the floor some colour, and then put some kind of varnish on it to make it shine?

I'm aiming for a way to save money and have a minimalist look. Thanks.

Answer 1

your idea sounds somewhat more expensive compared to getting a jute or sisal area rug. you like cold floors against your feet? just curious

Answer 2

Well, since it is an apartment, I'd check with the landlord first.

If you can do what you want with the floor, then I'd suggest doing an acid stain to the concrete.

http://www.solcrete.com/
http://www.decosup.com/acid_stain.html

Those websites are just to give you an idea of how good it can look compared to paint. You should be able to find acid stain at your local hardware store like Lowe's or Home Depot. I'd try Lowe's.

Then I'd just use a nice looking rug as an accent in the center.

Answer 3

I did a coffee shop that way for the owner and it came out great. Your local home store should carry both concrete paint and concrete stain and could rec. brands to you. I happen to like the stain best-if it wears it still looks good. I put it on and scrubbed it off and did 2 colors so it just looked old. You could also tape off areas and "pattern it" Go to DIY networks site-they have great how-tos and also HGTV.com. Don't varnish it too glossy but a sealer would finish it off nicely.

Answer 4

That would look cool! Stop by your local home improvement store and get help purchasing some concrete paint. I would recommend a sponging technique with a couple different colors that coordinate. You could even give it a marble look depending on what colors you choose. Very cool - good luck!

Answer 5

There's something called Armorproxy that people use the finish the floors of their garages. It comes in several colors and the finish is smooth with a shine to it. It is very easy to clean and maintain and I think it is affordable.

Answer 6

Yes, but get a couple of opinions as to the right colour.

I did it and the GLIDDEN store helped me choose the right colour for my location. Then I applied UREAETHANE coating which dried very hard and almost non-scratchable.

Answer 7

Minimalism has nothing to do with what covering you have on your floor, however to answer your question you can certainly do that. Just make sure to use a thick, heavy varnish.

Love,
Snag

Answer 8

yes you can paint it use thomasons to seal it!