Carpet decoration ideas


50 Living Room Carpet Ideas

Through These Eyes

Carpet in the living room may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's certainly not an automatic design no-no either. Rather than dismissing it entirely, sometimes, you just need to embrace it.

Aside from being a soft to place to stand, living room carpet can make a room feel cozier and more colorful. Have carpet in your own living room? Here's 50 ways to make it work.

01 of 50

Rikki Snyder

We all know that one rug can look great on top of carpet, but so does two. Layering multiple rugs on top of carpet creates a multifaceted look full of texture that will take your living room up a notch.

02 of 50

Louis Duncan-He

For a seamless living room carpet look, pick carpet that is full of colors and vibrant tones and repeat those colors elsewhere in your space, like in accessories, throw pillows, or furniture.

03 of 50

Cormar Carpets

Dealing with a small space? Pair lightly-colored carpet with similarly colored walls and glass accents for a living room that will feel brighter and more open than it really is.

04 of 50

Margaret Wright

Need extra seating? Place floor pillows on your living room carpet. Not only do these provide a convenient spot to sit and chat, but they also act as an extra accessory to jazz up your carpet.

05 of 50

Louis Duncan-He

Just as you can create a cohesive look with similar coloring in the carpet and the furniture and accessories that surround it, so can you create a cohesive look by mimicking the look of the carpet in other spaces as well—like the kitchen cabinets. This works well with open-concept areas.

06 of 50

Cormar Carpets

Plum accents are the ideal companion to dark gray carpet in your living room. Consider adding a few touches of plum through throw pillows, blankets or vases.

07 of 50

Louis Duncan-He

Living room carpet is an easy way to tie in fun patterns and texture. Repeat those patterns and texture (or ones similar to it) elsewhere in your space, like in wall art or throws.

08 of 50

Carpetright UK

A simple cream-colored carpet is the perfect base layer for a boho rug and some cozy floor couches. Finish the look with a dramatic, show-stopping houseplant and some complementary wall art.

09 of 50

Cormar Carpets

Adding carpet and unsure what color it should be? If your walls are white or off-white, try installing carpet in a similar shade. It can give your living room a marvelously minimalist feeling.

10 of 50

Design: Kate + Co Design, Photos by Arnal Photography

Bringing texture into your living room doesn't have to mean covering it in wicker or velvet—it can also mean embracing it small ways, like choosing a more prominent weave or tuft in your carpet.

11 of 50

Cormar Carpets

No matter how you style your living room and its carpet, don't forget some kind of contrasting color, even if you're going with a monochrome look. A dash of color in something as small as a picture frame or decorative bowl can help break up the space and keep it from looking too drab.

12 of 50

KTII Design Group

Think of your living room carpet like a blank canvas and your furniture like the paint it sits upon it. And though your canvas shouldn't be covered in stuff before paint is added, a little pattern never hurt anyone. Try out a carpet with a small pattern and see for yourself.

13 of 50

Cormar Carpets

An additional stylish look for your carpeted living room is tying in furniture that's slightly darker than your carpet and pairing it with a rich accent color. The room will feel coordinated, but not too matchy-matchy.

14 of 50

KTII Design Group

Sometimes, a neutral carpet is the best one in your living room, especially if your decor style is more maximalist. Keeping things simple will help keep things from becoming chaotic.

15 of 50

Cormar Carpets

For a living room with a timeless feeling, pair your lightly-colored carpet with off-white walls and black accents. Eye-catching black is further highlighted by the cream tones of the space, showing why contrast can be your home decor's best friend.

16 of 50

Interior Impressions

For a stellar color combo, go for gold and gray. Gray carpet gets a reputation for being boring, but it's the perfect blank slate when it comes to pops of bold and classy gold.

17 of 50

Cormar Carpets

Break of the monotony of a sea of carpet by placing floor accents, like baskets and bins, on top of it. Not only will they provide some helpful storage, but they'll provide visual interest too.

18 of 50

Interior Impressions

For a room that feels breezy, bright and everything in-between, use a cream or off-white carpet paired with white furniture and walls. Keep things from feeling too clinical by tying in one or two small and subtle pops of color.

19 of 50

ALine Studio

For a living room you'll want to be in 24/7, break out the highest-of-the-high-pile-carpet. Extra-tall tufts create a soft and welcoming feel, and your floor might just be as comfy as your couch.

20 of 50

Rikki Snyder

Who says that rugs have to have all the cool patterns? Take a page from rugs' book and use carpet that's full of designs and color, like this Persian-rug-style carpet.

21 of 50

R Johnston Interiors

Create a unique space that will set your living room apart with some geometrically textured carpet. Textured triangles, circles, and squares can give your floor a personality all of its own.

22 of 50

Rikki Snyder

As you're starting to see, the coloring of your carpet is a great jumping off point for the coloring of the rest of your living room. One way to incorporate your carpet color is by using it as the background or base tone in wallpaper or wall art.

23 of 50

R Johnston Interiors

Living room carpet in earthy and woody tones can give your space an old-world vibe, and it will pair perfectly with wooden accents, like cabinetry or ceiling beams.

24 of 50

Rikki Snyder

For a fun, down-to-earth pattern, use dots in your carpet. They'll provide a touch of personality to an item that so many simply ignore.

25 of 50

Through These Eyes

Give your living room a little extra style (and a little extra coziness) by placing a plush rug on top of your carpet.

26 of 50

Rikki Snyder

A simpler, toned-down carpet means there's room for dramatically patterned ottomans or chairs. Instead of bemoaning your carpet's boring sensibilities, embrace what it allows you to do.

27 of 50

Glenn Gissler Design

A neutral colored, low-pile carpet with a subtle pattern paired with elegant furniture and gilded accents creates a regal look that's sure to stand out.

28 of 50

Rikki Snyder

A carpet covered in long lines is the perfect addition to a lusciously linear space. When paired with tall windows, long sofas and geometric coffee table, a linear-patterned carpet ties the whole look together.

29 of 50

Invictus Carpet

You don't have to cover up your carpet—either with furniture or rugs. A simple look can look just as good as more maximalist one. For the best effect, make sure all your furniture and decor coordinates well with the carpet, since there won't be much of it.

30 of 50

Invictus Carpet

Another winning color combo is beige and navy. Beige carpet is easy to find (and affordable!) and pairs wonderfully with a touch of navy, for a subtle nautical look.

31 of 50

Rikki Snyder

Another way to add a unique pop of style is by laying an animal skin rug on top of your carpet. This looks even better when a coffee table or another central piece of furniture sits upon it.

32 of 50

Clayton Corner

Don't have the time (or headspace) to pick perfectly complementary colors for your carpet and living room furniture? There's an easier way—make them all the same color. Using different shades of the same color will provide a coordinated look with minimal effort.

33 of 50

Rikki Snyder

You can bring in more than one color into your carpet without a bold pattern or colorblocking. Instead, look for carpet with multicolored tufts, which provide a subtle touch of color.

34 of 50

GInger Pawws

For a subtlety luxe look, pair plush carpet with a few touches of velvet, like in a throw pillow or ottoman. The richness of the carpet will easily complement the lushness of the velvet accents.

35 of 50

Mindy Gayer

Hardwood flooring isn't the only way to make your living room look older than it really is. For an equally vintage feeling, use carpet with a washed-out pattern for a subtle centuries-old look.

36 of 50

Leila Talmadge Interiors

Who says living room carpet has to be neutral? It can also be rich and bold too, like this beautiful shade of blue. For a cohesive look, repeat the color elsewhere, like on the sofa or in wall art.

37 of 50

The House That Black Built

An easy way to tie in your beige carpet to your living room (without making the whole space beige) is to have a piece of furniture that nearly matches it. Doing this makes the space feel cohesive, but not overwhelmingly carpeted.

38 of 50

Design: AMC Interior Design; Photos: Mark Harrison Photography

For a rich and visually pleasing look, pair a lighter colored carpet or rug with deeply colored walls. The two will contrast one another and create a grown-up space that will never go out of style.

39 of 50

Anne Sage

For a pared-down living room that doesn't feel too cluttered, pick a coffee table that has a similar color as your carpet. This works especially well with lighter colored carpets, and it can really open up a room.

40 of 50

AMC Interior Design, Photos by Heidi Marfitt Photography

Just as you can have bold living room carpet, you can also have a bold area rug on top of it. This is a great choice if you want to go for a colorful look without the commitment.

41 of 50

Blue Copper Design

If you want to add a rug to your living room carpet, but don't want it to blend in too much, pick a darker rug with a subtle pattern on it. This will create contrast and bring in some extra style.

42 of 50

Henry Walker Homes

Create the classiest living room by pairing cream carpet with dark blue and gold accents. Together, the color trio creates a rich, visually pleasing look that's ready for the fanciest of dinner parties.

43 of 50

House of Chais

Not looking to show off your carpet? We get it. Instead, place a colorful or unique rug on top and match its color or pattern with your living room wall art. This will draw the eye away from your beat-up beige.

44 of 50

Interiors by Rachel Fielding

Trim can really tie together a room, and it's no different when it comes to carpeted ones. Make sure your living room has baseboards—not only do they protect your walls, but they provide a nice buffer between the carpet and the wall too.

45 of 50

Katie LeClerq Design Studio

One of the best things you can do in you decor is to combine texture, especially when it comes to carpets and rugs. A textured rug atop a textured carpets can give your living room a unique, high-end feel.

46 of 50

The House That Black Built

Another great way to boost your living room's personality is by pairing simple-as-can-be carpet with a fun floor texture, like vintage tile. Together the two highlight one another, while preventing either one from feeling too dominant.

47 of 50

Katie LeClerq Design Studio

A room-sized rug is a great answer to the question of what do with unwanted carpet.

48 of 50

Renovating The Broadway

For a taste of something different, a carpet with a subtle weave and low pile mimics the look of wicker. It's an easy way to bring in texture, and low pile carpet is easier than most to keep clean.

49 of 50

Devon Grace Interiors

Another great way to incorporate the look of your carpet throughout your living room is by using similar curtains. That way, your carpet colors are seen vertically and horizontally.

50 of 50

My Little Detached Home

A bright or richly colored rug against a sea of neutrals brings in a lovely touch of color that makes your living room uniquely you.

How To Decorate a Living Room: 20 Ideas and Common Mistakes

12 looks to create warmth, texture and style underfoot |

(Image credit: Fibre Flooring | Future | Carpetright)

By Zara Stacey

last updated

A carpet can transform the look and feel of a room, and our carpet ideas explore a collection of looks for both modern and classic interior designs.  

For flooring ideas, a carpet can not only make a room feel more cozy, comforting and inviting through tactile texture, but it can also provide a chance to get truly creative with color and material.

Claire Kimble, head of design at Crucial Trading says, 'the floor can become a canvas that can be ever changing, reflect a mood, and bring comfort and direction to our interior.'

Whether you want to make a bold statement for living room carpet ideas with a patterned carpet, or keep things simple and neutral for bedroom carpet ideas, there is an array of carpet designs to choose from that can best suit your space.

There is a lot to consider when choosing the right carpet for your home, such as the cost to install carpet, the underlay and material – from wool, sisal, seagrass and jute – to the pile, from woven, loop, twist, tufted and bonded, to low pile and high pile – and of course, don't forget the color and carpet mistakes to avoid!

Punam Chada, buyer at Carpetright states, 'when you’re selecting your carpet think carefully about the use of the space and the existing color scheme. Consider a minimalist style if you already have strong focal points, such as statement wallpaper in the room, or look at bold and patterned options to brighten a neutral room.'

Carpet ideas

Rupert Anton of The Carpet Foundation shares his top tips for when exploring carpet ideas in the home. 'When buying carpet for your home, things to consider include: the room it is for, your color scheme, the purpose of the carpet/desired lifespan, your budget - including costs of fitting and underlay, a plain or patterned design. 

Also remember, measuring the room - leave it to an expert! Ordering samples of carpet to see designs in-situ, underlay and the fitting of your carpet.'

With many designers and brands looking to make more sustainable carpet choices, today, there is an increased focus on using carpets in the home that have been crafted from natural and renewable materials that are better for the environment. 

One of the most popular and enduring examples is wool, as Jodie Hatton, design manager at Brintons says, 'not only is wool on trend right now, but it comes with the added bonus of being a fantastic sustainable choice for flooring. It insulates your home, is easily recyclable and biodegradable, plus shearing sheep is essential for their welfare. Thanks to wool’s hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties, using it on the floor helps to make the air we breathe cleaner.'

So, whether you are carpeting the whole house, or just the one room, we have curated a collection of beautiful carpeted looks, along with some valuable carpet advice from the experts, to help with the carpet ideas in your home.

1. Create a textured, organic look

(Image credit: Fibre Flooring)

In this beautiful barn conversion, the flooring has been covered in the Kashmir Sisal Himalaya carpet from Fibre Flooring . The natural, sisal texture and earthy, brown colorway works in perfect harmony with the history of the property and the traditional architectural features, as well as with the fresh, modern white design.

Julian Downes, managing director at Fibre Flooring states, 'sisal is a natural, plant-based material which offers a range of patterns which can not only add texture, but allow you to use the design to make the most of an available space. For example, herringbone and stripes adds direction and make a space look longer as it draws the eye down through the room or along a corridor or stairs.'

Made from fibers extracted from plants, a sisal carpet can establish a timeless, organic look that brings the beauty and versatility of the outside world, indoors.

(Image credit: Future)

Carpet tiles unite the softness and coziness of carpet with the beautiful, intricate designs and patterns of floor tile ideas. Carpet tiles are swatches of carpet that can come in different shapes and sizes and can be neatly fitted together to create a unique, modular design.

Mike Richardson, general manager of Kersaint Cobb states, 'for the really bold, try experimenting with color with a vibrant carpet for a real style statement. Think about making the carpet the base of your design scheme, compliment the colorful flooring with a more neutral palette for furniture and accessories to create a modern look.’ 

As shown in this elegant dining room, the striking blue carpet tiles in a eye-catching geometric pattern, are enhanced by matching patterned curtains, blue upholstered dining chairs and the two decorative plates. Creating a unified, modern look, the blue is balanced by the white painted ceiling, paneled walls and traditional stone fireplace. 

A stylish blend of the old and the new, these colorful carpet tiles steal the show in this blue dining room.

3. Create a calming sleep space

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

In this bedroom, belonging to broadcaster and journalist Louise Roe , the Alternative Flooring Wool Pebble Omaha carpet helps to create a cozy and soft atmosphere in the space. 

Roe states why she chose this carpet, 'from a practical standpoint we wanted something squishy and soft to walk on at the end of a long day, and for a baby to crawl on. Aesthetically, something neutral but bright to reflect as much light as possible on a dark winter day.'

This carpet's light color can seamlessly complement and integrate into a range of styled spaces, with the thick 'pebble-like' weave adding eye-catching texture and a beautiful sense of depth.

Alternative Flooring, creative director, Lorna Haigh, states, 'wool is a wonder fiber: natural, renewable, easily cleaned and it retains its shape and bounce. An insulator and naturally flame retardant, a super textile for floors which lasts too. Deep pile luxurious wool carpets, such as our chunky Wool Pebble in beautiful lights creams are indulgent for bedroom carpets and upstairs but may not perform well in an area with heavy foot fall.'

(Image credit: Carpetright)

Decorating with stripes can not only prove timeless in interior design, but it can also work as a clever decorating trick to make spaces in the home feel bigger and wider than they actually are. Using a striped carpet can make a bold design statement as well as help to enhance the feel and size of a space. 

As shown in this colorful living room, the Soho Stripe Loop Carpet in the Kingston finish by Carpetright is defined by a bold palette of oranges, reds, blues and purples, with the elegant, thin stripe pattern creating a mesmerizing effect. With the orange lounge chair and painted feature wall working in harmony with the carpet design to create a colorful, unified look, this traditional living room has had a beautiful contemporary refresh with bold colors and textures.

Punam Chada from Carpetright advises when working with a colorful carpet, 'you don’t necessarily need to match prints and patterns but opting for a carpet that shares a color with something else in the room, such as the walls or bedding, will help tie the look together.'

5. Choose a carpet runner

(Image credit: Kersaint Cobb)

A great option for hallway carpet ideas, hallway carpet runners can create a zone of comforting texture, and establish a beautiful union of contrasting materials on the floor.

In this hallway, the Kersaint Cobb Morocco Runner in the Tetouan finish adds a subtle feature of color, texture and striped pattern. The design is also crafted from sisal, which is perfect for hardwearing, heavy traffic areas such as hallways, entryways and stairs. 

Creating an inviting entrance into the home, this long runner works wonderfully with the light wood flooring to help you move through the entrance in comfort and style.

6. Create a layered look

(Image credit: Future)

Mike Richardson says, 'use carpet as the starting point for your décor and a rug as the finishing touch. '

Rugs are often used on wooden or tiled floors, adding an element of softness and helping the space feel more inviting, however, they also work wonderfully on a carpeted floor, creating an enriched atmosphere of texture, warmth and coziness.

As shown in this bedroom, designed by Kate Guinness , the calming sea blue on the walls and natural, neutral beige carpet on the floor create the perfect backdrop for the mix of patterns and colors that take center stage in the scheme.

The colorful rug creates an eye-catching focal point and comforting, textured zone next to the bed, working with the other colorful soft furnishings and accessories to create a bedroom design full of character and unique style - a great example of bedroom rug ideas.

You can view the rest of this beautiful home designed by Guinness in our Design House feature.

7. Pick a textured carpet

(Image credit: Brintons)

Woven from undyed British wool in a cut-and-loop weave, this unique, textured Plato Cloud carpet from the Country Life collection from Brintons, is defined by a calming, natural color palette and a unique hexagonal pattern, creating a distinctive, three-dimensional effect.

Fitting in perfectly with the character of this traditional living room, the textured design can also work well in more contemporary settings, with the innovative use of shape creating an eye-catching design focal point.

8. Embrace a classic pattern

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

Carpet may not be the obvious choice for your boot room ideas, however, if you choose a durable and hardwearing material, as well as an eye-catching pattern, you can transform this transitional space into a room with inviting texture, color and personality. 

The Alternative Flooring Quirky Tartan Mountain Daisy carpet used in this blue boot room has been designed by The Glasgow School of Art student, Sophie Anne Campbell , inspired by beautiful Scottish highland tartan.

Lorna Haigh states, 'patterned wool carpets instantly lift spaces; they become a focal point in a room and act as art for the floor. Quirky, is Alternative’s patterned woven Axminster carpet, made from 80% British wool 20% nylon. Made in collaboration with British designers, these patterned carpet designs are also practical as they don’t show spots and spills.'

A colorful, classic textile pattern that celebrates young British design talent and British manufacturing, this carpet makes a beautiful feature of the floor in a more functional room in the home.

9. Choose a vintage style

(Image credit: Carpetright)

Jodie Hatton states, 'mention floral carpet and there can be a tendency to imagine out dated 70’s styles, but florals don’t have to be chintzy, they can also be dark and dramatic or carefully elegant. ‘Floral’ is an incredibly diverse design term, from bright and bold to small and subtle, floral carpet can be an inspired way to introduce pattern into your home.'

A beautiful example of vintage bedroom ideas, this design elegantly unites traditional patterns and furniture pieces to create a unique, refashioned retro look. The Carpetright Kenilworth Wilton Carpet in the Red Medallion finish, crafted using a classic Wilton weave, features a mix of detailed floral motifs, medallions and panel patterns, adding a vibrant and intricate design to the bedroom floor.

This style of carpet may not be for everyone, but impactful, patterned designs like this have proved popular for recent carpet trends and interior designs in the home.

10. Work with a timeless shade of gray

(Image credit: Crucial Trading)

One of the most popular modern neutrals, decorating with gray can work in interiors of all styles, whether you need a calming, timeless backdrop or want to establish a layered, monochrome look. A versatile option for your carpet ideas, a gray carpet can establish an enduring platform for changing styles and decorating schemes over time. 

The Weather Watching Snow Blanket carpet by Crucial Trading used in this bedroom works with the gray painted feature wall and classic furniture items to create an elegant mix of the old and the new, as well as helping to create a more restful bedroom environment. 

Jodie Hatton states, 'gray is a wonderful, sophisticated color, constructed of various shades and undertones. Not only is it a wonderful companion to other neutral shades, it also has the power to balance out bold accent colors. Gray creates a calming backdrop for any pop of color, adding texture and introducing natural, tactile materials to your scheme.'

11. Add carpet to a staircase

(Image credit: Fibre Flooring)

A staircase should be truly celebrated and decorated, rather than left as a simple connecting point from the downstairs to the upstairs in the home.

From staircase wall ideas to stair runner ideas and staircase carpet ideas, there are many ways you can enhance your staircase with unique style.

As shown in this colorful hallway, the matching Gorse Twill stair runner and Gorse Chevron rug from Fibre Flooring work in harmony to add uplifting color and texture to the space.

Crafted from wool, the rug and stair runner do not only add colorful visual interest to the space, but the durable woolen material works well to protect the wooden flooring in the spaces - ideal for busy areas in the home.

Lorna Haigh says, 'for stairs and hallways that get lots of traffic, a more tightly woven wool such as a boucle or Berber is preferable because it can be cleaned easily; or go for a carpet with a fleck in it, which hides a multitude of sins.  Before choosing a wool carpet for stairs, either as fully fitted carpet or as a bespoke stair runner, check the products suitability; not all wool carpets are suitable for use on stairs.'

12. Create a luxurious look with velvet carpet

(Image credit: Brintons)

Usually featuring a much denser pile than other carpet materials, a velvet carpet can create a thick, plush look that feels wonderfully soft and cozy underfoot. Ideal for a bedroom or living room, or as shown here by Brintons, a hallway.

Establishing a luxurious and sophisticated look with an elegant, smooth finish, a velvet carpet is not necessarily made from velvet fabric, the name instead refers to the type of pile and weave used, with many velvet designs made from wool; making it both a stylish and durable option for your carpet ideas.

What are the different types of carpet?

Rupert Anton of The Carpet Foundation takes us through the different types and styles of carpet. 

Types of carpet:

Axminster - A patterned carpet, using up to12 colors in the design. A traditional way of making carpet which ensures extremely good pattern definition and dimensional stability.

Wilton - The oldest method of weaving. A limited color palette, up to five colors in the design. It can, however, produce a variety of texture effects including loop pile, cut pile and cut and loop.

Tufted - By far the most popular form of carpet today and one of the most economical way of manufacturing carpet. Yarn is inserted into a backing fabric to produce cut or loop pile carpet.

Styles of carpet:

Twists -  Very hard-wearing plains or heathers with a more coarse, textured appearance but a forgiving surface. 

Velvets - Have a luxurious appearance and are like suede i.e., if you rub the pile one way it can appear to darken. 

Saxony - Deep pile and sensuous appearance and feel, prone to flattening, avoid use in heavy traffic areas.

Loop piles - The carpet version of coir and sisal, avoid with pets as can unthread.

Patterned - Will have a smooth velvet finish.

Most popular types of fiber:

Wool - Wool has been used for centuries in carpet manufacturing and is still recognized as the best fiber for use in carpet. Wool is warm and soft, with very high luxury feel; it has a low propensity to soil and therefore has excellent appearance retention; it is easy to clean and maintain; it is naturally flame retardant and is environmentally friendly.

Nylon - Nylon is extremely hard wearing – and is often used in an 80% wool 20% nylon blend. Its advantages are, very high abrasion resistance, easy to clean, compatible with manufacturing processes i.e., dyeing and yarn production.

Polypropylene - This is a very highly stain resistant fiber with very good abrasion resistance. It is typically used in twists, loop piles and Saxony products.  Its advantages are, hard wearing, low propensity to soil, easy to clean, very good color fastness.

What style of carpet is the most popular?

From carpets that focus on natural, sustainable materials, to impactful patterned designs, there are a whole host of carpet styles that are proving popular in the world of interior design.

Claire Kimble states, 'this is a time like no other, the home has never been so important to us, and it will continue to be in times to come. Bringing color and pattern within carpet and rugs into our homes uses the floor as a decorative platform that reflects our feelings and who we are.'

Andrew Gicquel, retail sales manager at Ulster Carpets states, 'plains like Ulster Velvet and our York and Grange Wilton ranges are always popular, but the latest trends are more of a push towards patterned carpet. We have had a lot of success with traditional styles that have been updated with colors to match modern styles. Overall, though, we are noticing that home-owners are looking at a carpet’s environmental credentials as much as they are color and style.'

Jess Contomichalos, stylist at Cormar Carpets says, 'this year we have seen interior design trends start to move away from a sleek, minimalist look to create interiors that are more homely, using a range of natural elements to help us reconnect with nature. Many of our customers are now opting for a wool carpet as a great way to include a natural product that you can feel the benefits of on a daily basis. Along with providing that much-desired touch of nature, a wool carpet comes hand in hand with another popular trend – texture.'

(Image credit: Crucial Trading)

Should carpet be lighter or darker than walls?

In regard to having carpet lighter or darker than walls, Contomichalos says, 'this is totally down to personal preference, there is no right or wrong answer as it is dependent on your interior style and requirements. Using a lighter toned carpet can really freshen up a room and create a harmonious feel, whereas using bolder tones can add drama and interest. Some of our most popular carpets range from warming beiges to dramatic stormy grays to suit the needs of today’s homeowners.'

What is the easiest carpet to take care of?

Wool is often the easiest carpet to take care of due to its durability and natural resistance to heat, dirt and stains. 

Andrew Gicquel says 'when it comes to a natural product that is easy to clean, wool is the perfect solution. Wool is a natural stain repellent and is easy to maintain with simple, regular maintenance.'

Contomichalos also states, 'Many homeowners with a family or pets tend to opt for our easy clean ranges, which are made from polypropylene, they are stain resistant and bleach cleanable meaning they can be laid anywhere in the home without the worry of everyday spills and stains.

However, although a man made carpet seems like a more obvious choice when it comes to busy households, wool cannot be discounted, as many consumers look to bring a more sustainable element into their homes, a wool carpet is a great choice. Wool is a fantastic natural fiber that comes with a host of benefits and a big one is its resistance to dirt. This results in less time and money being spent on cleaning products, meaning that with regular vacuum cleaning, your carpet will look good for many years to come.'

See our guide on how to deep clean a carpet for some handy carpet cleaning tips.

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

Zara joined Homes & Gardens in February 2022 as a Content Editor. After studying English Literature at University, she worked as an Ecommerce Website Editor, Content Writer and Buying Intern at multiple independent businesses within the luxury retail and lifestyle sectors. Her role at Homes & Gardens unites her love, experience and passion for the world of design and desire to create inspiring written content. She enjoys nothing more than discovering new trends, brands and products, whether that be in fashion, interior design or lifestyle.

8 beautiful ways to lay carpet on the floor

1 Between the sofa and armchairs

The easiest way to fit a carpet into the living room interior is to place it between the furniture. The classic soft zone consists of a sofa, one or more armchairs, a pouffe and a coffee table.

Instagram @home.by.viivi

These items must be placed either on the carpet or along its edges. So all the components will be visually combined, and just the carpet will act as a connecting element. nine0005

2 Under an ottoman or table

With the help of a carpet, it is easy to place accents and emphasize the necessary pieces of furniture. Choose expressive round or square models. Not necessarily bright - textured or complex weaving options are suitable. Place the carpet under the product that should be the center of attention.

Instagram @chataispolka

For example, this photo emphasizes the ottoman, which has become one of the central elements of the sofa area. The rug was chosen in a neutral beige shade, but it stands out due to the interesting woven pattern and natural texture. nine0005

3 Next to the bed

To make the bedroom cozier, accentuate the bed with a rug. It is desirable that it be larger in area than a sleeping place, and protrude a couple of tens of centimeters from each edge.

Instagram @lady_stil

You can push the carpet to the middle of the bed or further, but so that a small part of the cover remains in front. With this technique, you visually highlight the sleeping area.

nine0002 4 Slide behind the sofa

If the sofa is not too big, it can also be placed directly on the carpet. So the textile will be fixed in one place and will not move out.

Instagram @espressowlifestyle

It is better to choose a carpet with little or no pile, so that the difference in height under the sofa is minimal, and there are no noticeable dents from the legs on the carpet. If the product is small and the long side protrudes unsightly from under the furniture, lay it diagonally, angle forward. nine0005

5 In the center of the room

By placing the carpet correctly, you can make friends between different areas in the room and emphasize the architecture of the room. If you put it right in the center of the living room, not only will there be an additional accent, but all functional areas (for example, sofa, work, play) will look more holistic.

Instagram @therugseller

For this role, you can not choose too small or nondescript options, but inappropriately variegated coloring of the pile will be superfluous. It is best to proceed from the features of the palette, and choose a medium or large carpet in size. nine0005

6 Under the dining table

A large carpet under the dining table that grabs the chairs and slightly extends beyond the furniture set, looks cozy and visually clearly zones the space.

IKEA

If you do not want to spend a lot of time cleaning, choose a carpet with a small pile and a non-staining shade. But do not overdo it with practicality, because this is a decorative element that should look beautiful. nine0005

7 Under separate zones

And a little more about zoning. One large carpet between different elements of the interior unites them. But you can emphasize the isolation of each zone with 2-3 small rugs, placing them under the furniture that you want to highlight. In order not to overload the interior, choose neutral shades and a calm design. And necessarily such models that do not contradict each other.

Instagram @plantandwander

For example, in this photo we see four boho carpets at once. The brightest highlights the sofa area with a coffee table, while the rest emphasize smaller accents: a leather pouffe, a mini-greenhouse and large flower pots with plants.

8 On the way to the work area in the kitchen

Accentuate the location of the functional areas in the kitchen with a narrow textile path laid in the aisle to the set. In general, any carpet in the kitchen makes the interior much more comfortable, and in this case it also emphasizes the geometry of the room. nine0005

Instagram @trzecie_pietro

For the kitchen, lint-free matting or carpets with bright retro patterns work well.

Material prepared by

Elena Perlova

Carpet on the wall: 48 ideas on how to hang it fashionably

A carpet hung on the wall can be seen both in the photo of interiors in the "grandmother's" design, and in a fashionable modern space. In this article, we show you how to get away from the old-fashioned use of this decorative element and decorate the space in a new way. We consider the benefits of such a solution and design options in which it would be appropriate. nine0005

Ideas for decorating an apartment with a carpet

The experience of the USSR and the present
The benefits of such a technique
Choosing a fabric
Styles
— Neoclassic
— Loft
— Minimalism
— Ethnic
Ideas for different rooms
– Bedroom
– Canteen
— Living room

Social networks of designer Suzanne Kasler

In the minds of many, the image of a cozy, but obsolete space with a colorful Persian carpet on the wall by the bed or sofa has firmly settled down. There is a stereotype that as soon as this detail appears in a home, it immediately becomes tasteless and old-fashioned. This is not entirely true: in working with this type of wall decor, as with other accent details, balance and a sense of style are important. nine0005

Why were carpets hung on the wall in the USSR? First of all, to emphasize the well-being of the family, because this item was usually bought for decades and required considerable expenses. At the same time, certain ornaments and colors were in fashion: usually colorful and quite saturated both in terms of palette and intensity of the pattern. In addition to being a source of pride, woven fabric was an excellent option for insulating cold walls. In order not to start a major overhaul, a fleecy or woolen cloth was simply hung next to the bed - and the house became warmer. nine0005

ShutterStock

Photographer's Social Media aero_danik

Photographer's Social Media aero_danik

Then the redundant décor was replaced by a minimalistic one, and it became fashionable to decorate the space in neutral shades without overloading it with details. In the interior, they began to use laconic fleecy products, plain or with a calm pattern.

Today, the fashion for carpets on the walls allows both options, and the motley "grandmother's" carpet has gained a second wind and added to the list of trends. It has become a continuation of the retro theme in the modern interior and is now actively used to stylize the design. nine0005

Social networks of designer Valeria Mikheeva

  1. Insulate a corner apartment. Usually in the corner apartment there are cold walls - this is especially noticeable in the bedroom or children's room. In order not to experience discomfort, hang a fleecy rug on one of the walls. It will act as an additional insulation. Choose the most dense pile stuffing - such a product will be the warmest.
  2. Block out outside noise. If sounds from the street, from a neighboring apartment or room are strongly heard in the room, you can also use a wall carpet here. It will smooth out external noise, and the room will be quiet. Here, too, a model with a dense pile will be most effective. nine0126
  3. Make the space personal. An interesting product will bring individuality to the interior, and a vintage model will help create a space with history, multifaceted, voluminous and memorable. To emphasize a particularly beautiful color of a product or handiwork, point the lighting directly at the wall.
  4. Support furniture design. If you have made repairs and your favorite sofa no longer fits into it, you can support the furniture with the help of this wall decor. The product should be in the same style and in similar shades as your sofa or chair. So your favorite furniture can find a second life in a new interior. nine0126
  5. Protect from injury. This property works best in the children's room, but among adults, no one is immune from accidental injury. When there is a soft surface nearby, the risk of self-injury is reduced. How to hang a carpet on the wall for safety? It is best to place it next to the bed and sofa, and where there are corners or ledges.
6
photo nine0005

Since one of the main functions of this product is decorative, most of the models are made in unusual designs, various shapes and colors. There are options with embroidery or woven according to ancient technologies. Some of them can be safely called a full-fledged object of art.

Material

In addition to the decorative component, the composition is also important. Carpets can be natural, synthetic or mixed.

Social networks of designer Annabel Grimshaw

Social networks of designer Annabel Grimshaw

Social networks of designer Suzanne Kasler

Social networks of blogger shannen.smets

Social networks of blogger chulya77

9000

Robert Kime's social networks

The carpet on the wall in a modern interior can be bright or neutral, but it must necessarily overlap with the rest of the colors in the decoration. Choose furniture and other decor in the same way as the decorative canvas on the wall, then it will organically fit into the space. Below we list the styles suitable for such a decor. nine0005

Neoclassical

To make a classic interior more "homely" and cozy, you can hang a product that is neutral in design. Models with landscapes, hand embroidery or floral print look great. It is best to choose natural restrained shades.

Social networks of designer Robert Kime

Social networks of blogger natinstablog. home

Social networks of designer Robert Kime

Loft

Surprisingly, laconic carpet paths will fit quite harmoniously into the industrial interior. It is better to stay on a discreet design and a large print. nine0196 The pile should be as short as possible (or not at all). It will turn out a very active and unusual accent that will refresh the entire space and make it more comfortable.

Social networks of the samolet.salon store

Social networks of the samolet.salon store

Minimalism

Simple plain products without a pattern in a neutral palette can also decorate a modern home built on the principles of minimalism. They will make the space softer and warmer, but not overload it. You can also choose an unusual shape of the canvas to make it an accent in the interior. nine0005

Social networks of the blogger robijnsonneveld

Social networks of the artist dietryingtx

Ethnic

Perhaps the ethnic style (and especially the oriental) is the most suitable direction for using any carpets: bright, patterned, hand-woven. To emphasize the ethnic orientation of the interior, pay attention to products with the national pattern of the country whose style is taken as a basis. You can also hang several products on the wall at once. nine0005 6


photo

Robert Kime designer social media

Robert Kime designer social media

Robert Kime designer social media

Robert Kime designer social media

Robert Kime designer social media

Robert Kime designer social media

differ.

Moooi Carpets Social Media

For example, a tapestry for a large living room may not be appropriate in a small bedroom. And what looks nice and cozy in the living room will be impractical in the kitchen. We have collected some tips and ideas for decorating rooms where this technique is most often used.

Bedroom

This room is designed to relax, so a modern bedroom wall rug should be as calm as possible in terms of design. Models of neutral shades with a medium pile look great (this is more convenient to care for so that it does not become a hotbed of dust). But too bright and active models should be avoided, as they can visually overload the room. If your family has allergies, carefully study the composition of products and choose the most environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic option. nine0005

Social media blogger v.a.home

Design: Alena Skovorodnikova, skovorodnikova.ru

Social media blogger carlawalker_

Canteen

If the dining group is located in the kitchen, there will be increased humidity and pollution in the room - consider this. It is best to opt for a small, lint-free model, as it is easier to care for. nine0005

Design: Ekaterina Malmygina. Photo: Roman Spiridonov

Social networks of blogger robijnsonneveld

Social networks of blogger rozenkelim

Social networks of photographer Stephan Julliard

Social networks of Moooi Carpets store

Living room

This is the room where you can experiment the most.


Learn more