Just to be clear, concrete generally has a cost advantage in the basement — because you already have to pour a slab — but it’s likely to cost more than many alternatives elsewhere. In upper rooms it can require extra support as well as materials that aren’t cheap and processes that are labor-intensive.

Yes, most people prefer carpet in the bedrooms. But I have six kids. And after a few dozen carpet-centric throw-ups, two dozen forbidden juice spills, six marker incidents, two child-caused floods, and one toddler lipstick binge…need I go on?…I’m happy to confine their cushy comfort to area rugs and leave the floor actually cleanable!

But I think some of the concrete stains are drop dead gorgeous. Because of the porousness of the surface, it kind of variegates so the color is mottled. Kind of tile- or leather like. I’ve seen it in lots of industrial applications (like stores, restaurants, etc.), but have also seen pictures of it in homes.

Here are a few photos. You can also do cool things with colors. We’re thinking about doing some kind of medallion in the foyer.