Choosing the flooring is one of the most important decisions in a renovation. It is the first element you notice when entering a room, the one that defines the visual character of a space and must withstand daily use for decades. Yet many clients approach it too hastily, often guided only by aesthetics or price, without considering the technical characteristics of the material and the specific needs of each room.

In this guide we analyse the three most popular materials in residential renovations in Bologna: porcelain stoneware, parquet and resin. For each one we explain the advantages, limitations and which rooms it suits best.

Porcelain stoneware: durability and versatility

Porcelain stoneware is the most widely used material in Italian renovations, and not without reason. It is extremely resistant to wear, moisture and scratches, making it ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, hallways and high-traffic areas. Today it is available in very large formats — up to 120x120 cm or more — which give a sense of continuity and spaciousness. Marble-effect or wood-effect stoneware delivers high-end aesthetic results at a fraction of the cost of the original materials. The main limitation of stoneware is its thermal coldness: it feels cold to the touch and is less suited to bedrooms where something warmer is preferred. It pairs very well with underfloor heating systems.

Parquet: warmth and prestige

Parquet is the classic choice for those who want a warm, elegant environment with a homely feel. It is available in two main versions: solid parquet, made from full wood, and pre-finished parquet, with a surface layer of noble wood glued onto a multi-layer backing. Pre-finished is today the most common choice in renovations because it is more stable, installs faster and costs less than solid wood. Parquet is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms and studies, but should be avoided in bathrooms, kitchens and humid areas, where wood tends to swell and deteriorate. It also requires a certain level of maintenance over time: it must be protected from deep scratches and periodically treated with specific oils or waxes.

Resin: continuity and contemporary design

Resin is the material of the moment for those seeking a minimalist and contemporary style. Its main strength is visual continuity: there are no grout lines, no interruptions — the flooring extends from wall to wall in a single uniform plane. It is highly appreciated in bathrooms and open-plan kitchens. From a technical standpoint, resin requires professional installation on a perfectly levelled screed — any imperfections in the subfloor will show. It is susceptible to scratches if not treated with the right products, and requires periodic maintenance with specific waxes. The installation cost is generally higher than stoneware, but the final effect has a great visual impact.

How to choose based on the room

The golden rule is to choose the material based on the function of the room and your lifestyle. For bathrooms and kitchens, porcelain stoneware or resin are almost always the best choice, thanks to their moisture resistance. For living rooms and bedrooms, parquet or wood-effect stoneware provide warmth and comfort. If you have children or pets, stoneware is the most scratch-resistant material and the easiest to clean. If instead you are aiming for a sophisticated design look and are willing to invest in maintenance, resin can transform an apartment into something truly unique.

In summary, here is a quick guide to choosing flooring for each room: