Keep in mind the vertical heights of stone, tile and hardwood are all different, making it also challenging to install. If you are using different types of tile for the job, they will be different heights too! Matching the vertical heights is essential! Some flooring contractors will say to make the stone or tile just a hair higher than the wood floor. It is entirely up to you. Just be consistent!
You need to pay attention to every detail when planning a mixed media floor. You need to have exact measurements. How much space will the border use? How much space will the center use? The vertical heights need to be the same. You can adjust the heights of stone and tile when you are installing them.
If you plan on using metal or stone, you have to allow for expansion spacing. Both metal and stone expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. Differently, wood expands as it takes in moisture and contracts when it releases moisture. If you are unsure, always leave more space to allow for expansion and shrinkage of your flooring materials. If any of these key planning elements are missed, you will end up with what looks like a botched amateur job!
Taking into account how different materials respond to humidity and temperature fluctuations, a mixed media floor should never be under a skylight. A mixed media floor under a skylight is a recipe for disaster! You are encouraging your floor to shrink and expand with the sun shining directly on it and then the shade cooling it quickly!
Please read on my article “How To Install A Mixed Media Floor” if you are planning one.