Newsweek
Couple buy new home sight unseen—unprepared for what's under "luxury" floor
Homeowner Claire Louw told Newsweek: "There was an unspoken acknowledgment that we were about to rip up the whole floor."
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Hidden Gem: Homeowner Discovers Classic Checkered Floor Underneath Vinyl
Homeowner Uncovers Stunning Retro Tile Floor Beneath Modern Vinyl In a surprising turn of events for one homeowner, a routine glance beneath a dishwasher led to the discovery of a hidden gem: a classic black and white checkered tile floor. The homeowner, who had long considered changing the existing grey luxury vinyl flooring, noticed a glimpse of an older pattern during a casual moment. Further investigation, aided by a sister-in-law's previous house listing lookup, confirmed suspicions that a distinct tile pattern lay beneath. What followed was an 8-hour DIY project to remove the overlaying vinyl, revealing a gleaming, retro-style checkered floor that instantly transformed the kitchen and adjacent living area. The unexpected find has brought a unique character to the home, highlighting how hidden elements can dramatically alter a space's aesthetic.
