Author: Camille Dubuis-Welch
Published Date: February 6, 2024
The way we select carpets has evolved significantly over time. Gone are the days when wall-to-wall carpeting was the only option; today’s flooring trends allow carpets to take center stage in interior design. While carpeting used to be perceived as dull and high-maintenance, it’s now working harder than ever to shed that reputation.
You might wonder, “Is carpeting going out of style?” The truth is that interior design trends, including flooring choices, come and go. And that’s part of the excitement of design – staying on top of the latest trends. So, before contemplating what might replace carpets, let’s explore some of the most popular carpet styles today and hear what designers have to say about their place in the latest flooring trends and our homes.
- Carpets with Defined Geometric Patterns The carpeting landscape has evolved significantly from being merely a canvas for other decor elements to becoming a focal point in its own right. Designers forecasted 2024 trends, revealing that carpets now embrace a Y2K aesthetic with textures, colors, and patterns taking center stage. Nadia Watts, an experienced interior designer, notes that bold geometric patterns and abstract designs in deep, saturated colors are all the rage. Besides adding style, these bold designs also offer practical benefits by hiding dirt, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Rich Celestial Tones and Earthy Hues In contrast to recent trends favoring quiet luxury, there’s now a growing interest in bolder and more vibrant carpet colors. Jewel tones and celestial colors are making a statement, adding excitement and movement to spaces. Sean O’Rourke, National Director of Merchandising at Floor Coverings International, observes a shift towards carpets with more color, particularly greens and blues, which evoke a sense of serenity and a connection to nature. Truer “earth tones” like amber, russets, and muted golds are also making a comeback, offering warmth and depth to interiors.
- Soft, Recycled, and Sustainable Finishes As eco-consciousness influences consumer choices, carpets made from recycled materials are gaining popularity. Brands like Flor offer recycled yarn fabrics that prioritize comfort and durability while minimizing environmental impact. Natural fibers such as wool, sisal, and jute remain popular eco-friendly choices, adding an organic feel to spaces and reducing carbon footprints.
- Wall-to-Wall Shag Carpets Lighter colors and higher pile carpets, such as shag carpets, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Higher-pile carpets, while requiring more maintenance, offer cozy comfort underfoot and are well-suited for low-traffic spaces like bedrooms. Shag carpets, in particular, are making a design statement, providing a playful backdrop to rooms. With advancements in fiber technology and construction options, wall-to-wall shag carpets like Anderson-Tuftex’s “Fan Favorite” are gaining attention for their style, comfort, and performance.
In conclusion, carpeting is undergoing a renaissance, with designers embracing bold patterns, rich colors, sustainable materials, and luxurious textures to elevate interior spaces. Whether it’s geometric patterns, celestial hues, eco-friendly materials, or shag carpets, there’s a carpet style to suit every design preference and lifestyle.
Sean is not alone in recognizing the growing demand for carpets with more intriguing textures. Ashley Stark Kenner, the creative director at STARK and co-founder of Ashley Stark Home, emphasizes that the choice of carpet depends on various factors. “Does the homeowner have children or pets? Is the carpet intended for a highly trafficked area, such as stairs or a living room? All of these considerations influence the type of carpet I would recommend installing,” she explains.
“For smaller homes, dark carpets and patterned carpets tend to make a space appear smaller than it is. Instead, I would recommend exploring rugs with a mix of textures and pile heights in neutral tones like cream, beige, and gray, which will help open up the space,” Ashley suggests.
“In busy, high-traffic areas of the home, durability is paramount. Consider a flat wool carpet or STARK Performance Acrylic for added durability. These carpets are easy to maintain and are made with exceptionally strong fibers that can withstand normal wear and tear, natural weathering, and harsh environments.”
If wall-to-wall carpets aren’t your preference, you’re not alone. While designers acknowledge the comfort and aesthetic benefits of carpets, custom-fitted rugs remain a popular choice to complement traditional floor coverings like parquet, hardwood, or LVT (luxury vinyl tile).
Custom area rugs can define a space and enhance a small living room by anchoring the furniture and establishing the layout. “I enjoy contrasting medium to dark parquet floors with lighter-colored rugs to allow natural light to bounce and create a sense of ‘positive space’,” says interior designer and founder of Ritter & Co, Christine Ritter.
When selecting living room rugs, designers recommend being just as discerning with the design as with a more permanent fixture like carpet. “Many of the projects I work on involve family homes, including very young children and pets, which often puts lighter rugs at risk of damage,” Christine explains. She favors washable rugs, particularly those with distressed graphics to disguise light stains.
“For lighter parquet or tiled floors, I find Bed Bath and Beyond offers an excellent range of colors for larger, sturdier rugs. I particularly love the distressed look for a dining room (goodbye food stains) as well as their indoor/outdoor rugs for easy cleaning,” Christine adds.
Additionally, designers emphasize the importance of versatility when choosing rugs for different areas of the home. “Consider the function of the space and the traffic it will receive,” advises interior designer Nadia Watts. “For example, in high-traffic areas like entryways or hallways, opt for durable rugs with low pile heights that can withstand heavy foot traffic and are easy to clean.”
Furthermore, rugs can serve as focal points or accent pieces in a room’s decor. “Choose rugs with bold patterns or vibrant colors to add personality and visual interest to neutral spaces,” suggests Nadia. “Alternatively, opt for neutral rugs with subtle textures or patterns to complement more vibrant decor elements.”
Ultimately, whether opting for wall-to-wall carpeting or custom area rugs, the key is to select flooring options that not only enhance the aesthetics of the space but also meet the practical needs of the homeowners. By considering factors such as durability, maintenance, and design preferences, individuals can make informed decisions to create stylish and functional living environments.
