If, as interior designers tell us, the ceiling is the fifth wall of a room, then certainly the floor is the sixth wall. It may not be at eye level, but the floor – and whatever covers it – is integral to a space, either supporting an overall design or making a statement all by itself.

“We love decorative floor projects,” says H.J. Holtz & Son owner Rick Holtz. “They give us the chance to show off our detail work and creativity, whether we’re executing someone else’s design or creating something entirely unique. We bring the same care and attention to a floor as we do any other job.”

In a larger room, such as a kitchen, dining room or living room, a decorative floor may mimic the appearance of a rug, perhaps in a geometric or repeating pattern. When considering what to do with a decorative floor, clients may elect to complement or match colors already in the room, whether on walls or furnishings.

In a smaller space, such as a bathroom, foyer or pantry, designs can be bolder, because they are contained and in areas where people don’t spend much time.

As with painted walls, the floor can set a tone for the space.

“In more formal rooms, we might use darker colors and a pattern that is noticeable but doesn’t compete with everything else in the room,” Holtz says. “But some customers really like to use a painted floor as a conversation starter, because it’s something that people don’t expect.”

When it comes to design, the Holtz painting team may use stencils, removable tape (to create crisp lines), or draw freehand, as they would on a ceiling. With any technique, the goal can be a floor that is modern or antique in appearance – whatever the house requires. In the past, customers have hired Holtz & Son to create zig-zag lines, faux parquet, even a stunning compass rose.

“Sometimes, people don’t realize that the options are the same as with any other project,” Holtz says. “We are happy to work with a homeowner or an interior designer to create just the right look.”