A guide for homeowners restoring period properties
Buying & laying Original style Victorian floor tiles within Nottingham & Derbyshire (original style Victorian geometric floor tiles? need to be an issue with www.jurraf.uk. Original style Victorian tiles remain one of the most timeless and recognisable features of British period homes. Whether you’re restoring a hallway, front path, kitchen or entrance, these tiles offer a level of character and durability that modern alternatives simply can’t match.
As a Period Property Craftsman working across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, I regularly help homeowners choose, design and install Victorian geometric floors that complement the age and architecture of their home. However, we need to be mindful of the subbase
Jurraf provides specialist period property painting, restoration, and heritage repair within a one‑hour drive of Long Eaton, covering much of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and parts of Leicestershire.
Major towns and cities:
Nottingham, Derby, Loughborough, Burton‑upon‑Trent, Mansfield, Chesterfield (south), Leicester (north), Ashby‑de‑la‑Zouch, Coalville, Hucknall, Ilkeston, Beeston, West Bridgford.
Local towns and villages:
Long Eaton, Stapleford, Sandiacre, Borrowash, Castle Donington, Melbourne, Draycott, Breaston, Ruddington, Keyworth, Bingham, East Leake, Carlton, Gedling, Arnold, Wollaton, Bramcote, Chilwell, Toton, Clifton, Radcliffe‑on‑Trent, Lowdham, Woodborough, Calverton, Duffield, Belper, Ripley, Heanor, Swadlincote, Hilton, Etwall, Repton, Ticknall, Willington, Shardlow, Kegworth, Shepshed, Barrow‑upon‑Soar, Quorn, Rothley.
If your home is within an hour of Long Eaton, it’s very likely we cover your area — just get in touch and we’ll confirm.
What Makes Victorian Floor Tiles Special?
Victorian geometric tiles have been used since around 1860, and their appeal has never faded. Interior designers and homeowners continue to choose them for their:
- timeless beauty
- durability
- suitability for wet and high‑traffic areas
- ability to replicate original period layouts
- huge range of colours and shapes
Made from clay and powdered glazes, then fired in a kiln, these tiles have a natural matt finish and exceptional longevity.
Choosing Your Tile Pattern
Victorian tiles come as individual pieces, allowing complete freedom in design. You can:
- recreate a traditional pattern
- match an existing floor
- design something entirely bespoke
Two of the most recognisable patterns are: - Cambridge – a classic square checkerboard
- Oxford – a diamond‑set checkerboard (square on its point)
These can be created in: - black and white
- buff and red
- contemporary greys
- or any combination your project requires
Working closely with suppliers, a final AutoCAD layout can be provided (subject to T&Cs) to ensure accuracy before installation.
Buying Victorian Floor Tiles: What to Consider
When choosing tiles for a period home, think about:
- Colour & Authenticity
Traditional colours include buff, red, black, white and chocolate.
Modern greys and blues can work well in contemporary settings. - Tile Thickness
Most Victorian tiles are thin but extremely strong.
This helps when matching existing floor levels. - Substrate Condition
A stable, level base is essential.
Old floors often need preparation before tiling. - Border Designs
Borders frame the pattern and give the floor its period look. - Room Size & Layout
Small spaces benefit from simpler patterns; larger rooms can handle more complexity.
Laying Victorian Floor Tiles: What’s Involved?
Installing these tiles is a specialist job. Unlike modern large‑format tiles, Victorian floors require:
- precise setting out
- accurate cuts
- careful colour balancing
- attention to grout lines
- understanding of period proportions
A well‑laid Victorian floor should look like it has always belonged to the house.
Restoring an Original Victorian or Edwardian Tiled Floor
Some original floors can be restored with:
- cleaning
- re‑grouting
- replacing missing tiles
- re‑levelling loose sections
Others may require more extensive work.
In many cases, I can tell simply by looking through the front door whether a floor is salvageable or needs partial reconstruction.
Why Choose Jurraf for Victorian Tiling?
- Experience with period homes across Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire
- Ability to replicate original layouts and patterns
- Access to high‑quality suppliers
- Bespoke design options
- Careful preparation and installation
- Respect for the building’s history
Whether you’re restoring an original floor or commissioning a new one, the goal is always the same:
to create a finish that feels authentic, durable and true to the property.
Book an Appointment
If you’re considering Victorian floor tiles for your home — or need help restoring an existing floor — feel free to get in touch.
Contact Jonathan
enquiries@jurraf.uk 07891832294
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