Epoxy flooring isn’t just for warehouses and hospitals anymore. Just ask designer James Saavedra, whose home boasts white epoxy floors that are as sleek and reflective as the Ralph Pucci gallery. The surface isn’t just pretty—it’s tough: “I’ve shattered mason jars on this floor filled with Bolognese, and let me tell you, the floor is victorious every time,” Saavedra says. Anyone else wondering what epoxy is? We’ll save you a google: It’s a synthetic material that’s got something to do with thermosetting polymers containing epoxide. In short, it’s a really strong plastic.
When Saavedra decided to use epoxy flooring to brighten up his 700-square-foot Austin, Texas home, numerous vendors told him it was a bad idea. He was dealing with pre-existing concrete that had been poorly maintained. The epoxy, which must be spread by hand, was sure to have small imperfections. But Saavedra had his mind set. So, he dished out a little more to have the floors prepped (epoxy costs about the same as a good quality pre-finished wood flooring), then crashed at a friend’s house for six days: three days to prep the floors, one to pour the epoxy, and two to let it cure. The result is stunning.
“The floor is one of the best decisions I made, because when you wish to live uncluttered and deliberate, it really elevates what lives in your space,” Saavedra says.
Sold on epoxy floors? A little common sense goes a long way when it comes to their upkeep. Clearly, they are quite slippery when wet. You’ll want to lose your shoes at the door and put felt pads under furniture (things you’d likely do anyway). According to Saavedra, a magic eraser works wonders for any marks. Best of all? Epoxy is great under bare feet, but it’s even better for sliding through the house in your socks. So stop lacquering your walls and take to the floor.