Homeowners carrying out DIY projects on the flooring in their home may be well advised to follow the lead of many builders by using natural materials.
They offer advantages such as being practical and hard-wearing, as well as looking stylish, interiors expert Yvonne Jones explained.
In an article for the Western Mail, she described why she opted for reclaimed flagstones on her kitchen floor, saying that although they "bear the hallmarks of a long life", this actually makes them more appealing.
"Unlike many manmade materials, natural goods look better once they have been lived in for a while," she wrote.
"Much like leather jackets that look far better when worn in than they do when they are pristine."
Ms Jones believes using materials such as wood, stone, slate and marble in the home can be effective as they "exude warmth and texture" and are very easy to live with.
"For extra cosiness, just add a rug in vibrant colours," she added.
Copyright Press Association 2010