Polished concrete floors have come a long way from their early industrial days. These days, polished concrete has become a sought-after design choice for homes, offices, and retail spaces alike. And let’s be real: it’s not just about durability anymore; it’s about style. At NZ Grinders, we’ve been grinding, polishing, and admiring concrete floors for years, and we can’t help but notice some fantastic design trends cropping up for 2024. Whether you’re going for a sleek modern look or something that stands out, these trends are guaranteed to make your polished concrete floor the star of the show.
1. Matte Finishes: Understated Elegance
Forget the high-gloss shine of the past. This year, matte finishes are all the rage. The subdued, satin look gives spaces a sophisticated, understated feel. It’s perfect for homes or offices looking for a minimalist, modern vibe. Plus, matte finishes are easier on the eyes and don’t show dust as much—making them practical, too.
We’ve seen more clients opting for matte at NZ Grinders, and we love how it adds a warm, grounded feel to any room. A bonus? Matte doesn’t create glare, so you can enjoy the sunlight without squinting every time it hits the floor.
2. Color Additives: A Pop of Personality
Polished concrete doesn’t have to be plain gray. In fact, we’re seeing more homeowners and designers go bold with color additives. Whether it’s a subtle tint or a vivid splash, colors can make a concrete floor feel like a work of art. Earthy tones like terracotta and forest green are big right now, as are deep blues and warm neutrals.
Our team at NZ Grinders has been getting creative with colors, too. The best part is that color additives can be customized to match your existing decor or branding, so it’s as unique as your space.
3. Exposed Aggregate: Embracing the Raw Look
Aggregate exposure isn’t new, but it’s getting more popular by the day. Exposing the small stones within the concrete adds texture and depth, giving your floor a raw, natural feel. This trend is fantastic for anyone looking to add a bit of character to a space.
We can adjust the level of aggregate exposure at NZ Grinders, from light exposure (just a hint of texture) to full exposure, where the stones really shine. Exposed aggregate brings a hint of the outdoors inside, which feels fresh and organic.
4. Custom Patterns: Bringing Art to the Floor
Why settle for just one solid color or finish? Custom patterns are making a splash, allowing you to add stripes, geometric designs, or even intricate motifs to your polished concrete floor. This trend is especially popular in commercial spaces where branding or a unique visual touch is important.
Our team loves experimenting with patterns, and the possibilities are endless. From subtle, understated designs to bold statements, custom patterns make your floor truly unique.
5. Metallic Finishes: The Future is Here
Looking for something edgy and ultra-modern? Metallic finishes are gaining traction. Think of it as adding a sleek, industrial touch with a futuristic vibe. Metallics can range from silver and bronze to more exotic hues like copper or cobalt. The effect is often mesmerizing, giving the floor a liquid, shimmering look.
At NZ Grinders, we’ve seen people start incorporating metallic finishes into some projects, and the results are stunning. These floors have a life of their own, catching light in unexpected ways. Metallics are perfect for high-impact areas where you want a “wow” factor.
6. Low-Gloss for a Subtle Shine
For those who want a bit of sheen without the full mirror effect, low-gloss polished concrete is an ideal compromise. It has just enough shine to reflect a bit of light but without the high-maintenance look of high-gloss. Low-gloss finishes work beautifully in both residential and commercial settings, providing a clean, polished look without the fuss.
At NZ Grinders, we’ve found that low-gloss is a popular choice for family homes. It adds a touch of elegance without screaming, “Look at me!” It’s just the right amount of shine to brighten up a space without overwhelming it.
7. Inlays and Embedded Objects: Personalize Your Space
Why limit your concrete floor to just concrete? One trend we’re excited about is embedding objects into the concrete itself. Whether it’s colored glass, stones, or even shells, inlays can make a concrete floor feel deeply personal and artistic. It’s a fantastic way to add a story to your flooring.
We’ve worked on projects that include small embedded elements, and every floor tells a different story. If you’re looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, this is a great option to consider.
8. Thermal Concrete: Embrace the Cozy Factor
Concrete floors aren’t known for being warm, but with radiant heating, that’s all changing. Heated concrete floors (often called thermal concrete) are ideal for those chilly mornings and make your home feel like a luxurious retreat.
Installing radiant heating under polished concrete is surprisingly straightforward, and it pairs perfectly with our polishing process at NZ Grinders. You get the modern look of concrete with the cozy comfort of warmth underfoot. It’s a win-win.
9. Eco-Friendly Concrete: Go Green with Recycled Materials
Sustainability is a major theme in design, and concrete floors are no exception. More people are opting for eco-friendly concrete, using recycled materials and low-VOC sealers to reduce their carbon footprint. This green option doesn’t just feel good—it looks amazing, too.
We at NZ Grinders are always looking for ways to make our processes greener, and we love working with clients who share this commitment to the environment. Eco-friendly concrete can look just as polished and stylish as traditional options, with the added bonus of being better for the planet.
10. Natural Tones and Finishes: Bringing Nature Indoors
Finally, one of the biggest trends is going back to nature. Polished concrete floors with natural tones—think soft grays, beiges, and earth browns—create a warm, inviting space. Paired with plants and natural light, these floors feel organic and peaceful.
Natural tones are a go-to for those wanting a cozy, grounded environment, and we’ve had several NZ Grinders clients fall in love with the look. It’s clean, it’s timeless, and it’s about as low-maintenance as you can get.
Choosing the Perfect Trend for Your Space
Polished concrete flooring offers so many customization options, and these trends just scratch the surface. At NZ Grinders, we’re always excited to bring fresh ideas to the table and create floors that our clients truly love. Whether you’re leaning toward a soft matte finish, bold colors, or a one-of-a-kind embedded design, polished concrete lets you make a statement in any space.
Ready to explore one of these trends for yourself? Give us a shout, and we’ll help you bring your polished concrete dreams to life.
For more details, contact Glen at 021-434-199, serving the North Island: or for South Island inquiries, reach out to Mike at 027-281-8815. You can also email us for a prompt response from our Sales Manager Ian.