How to choose the right carpet for your home

There are many things to consider when choosing a new carpet for your home. It's more than just aesthetics; it's about finding the right combination of function, durability, and personality that complements your space and lifestyle.

From plush textures to bold colours, natural fibres to modern patterns, you will need to balance practicalities, budget and style. But don’t worry – we’re here to help and below are some ideas and advice to help you choose the right carpet for you!

First things first

Before you embark on choosing your ideal carpet colour and style, there are some basics you will need to consider:

• What room is the carpet for? Different rooms have different needs. For example, a living room carpet will need to be durable and stain-resistant, while a bedroom carpet can be softer and more luxurious.

• What is your budget? Carpets can range in price from very affordable to quite expensive.

• Do you want your carpet fitted, or can you fit it yourself? If you want to fit it yourself, you will need to think about whether you need extra tools and also underlay and accessories to complete the job.

Once you have decided on the above, you can start to explore all of the different styles and colours available along with what kind of texture carpet you want.

What are your colour preferences? Are you looking for a bold statement piece, or something more neutral?
What is your style? Do you prefer something modern and minimalist, or classic and traditional?

Let's think about colour

Go bold

Bold colour carpets can definitely be a striking addition to your home, adding personality to any room.

• Choose statement pieces: Bold colours instantly grab attention and become the focal point of a room.

• Express your personality: Choose a colour that reflects your taste and creates the desired vibe, from vibrant and playful to sophisticated and dramatic.

• Delve into different colours: You're not limited to just primary colours. Explore jewel tones, deep greens, rich blues, and even unexpected hues like mustard yellow or teal.

• Think modern and trendy: Bold carpets are a popular choice in contemporary design, adding a touch of edge and individuality.

• Good for hiding wear and tear: Darker bold colours can be more forgiving of dirt and dust compared to lighter shades.

Bold colours may not be for everyone, you will need to take into consideration the following:

• Dominating presence: Be prepared for the carpet to take centre stage. Ensure furniture and decor complement rather than clash with the bold colour.

• Can be difficult to match: Coordinating other design elements can be trickier with a bold carpet. Careful planning and balance are key.

• Not for all tastes: If you prefer a more subdued or traditional look, a bold carpet might not be the best choice.

• Care and maintenance: Depending on the colour and material, bolder carpets might require more frequent cleaning to maintain their vibrancy.

Remember, the key to using bold colour carpets successfully is to be confident, plan carefully, and have fun

Keep it natural

Neutral and natural shades can effortlessly bring warmth, earthy elegance, and a touch of timeless style to any space. Muted beiges and greys, subtle cream and warm browns all offer unique vibes and practicality.

• Calming neutrals: Beige, taupe, and cream offer a versatile canvas, seamlessly blending with various decor styles. These light hues create a sense of airiness and openness, making them ideal for smaller spaces. Consider subtle textural variations like loops or weaves for added visual interest.

• Embrace earthy tones: Greens and browns inspired by nature evoke tranquility and connect your space to the outdoors. Mossy greens infuse a sense of calm, while terracotta and burnt orange add warmth and coziness. These colours work beautifully in bedrooms, living areas, and even home offices.

• Subtle variations: Don't underestimate the power of slight variations! Opt for beiges with a warm or cool undertone, explore taupes with hints of gray or green, or choose greens with blue or yellow accents. These nuances can significantly impact the mood and feel of your space.

• Pattern play: Even within the realm of natural colours, you can embrace subtle patterns like herringbone, chevron, or basketweave for a touch of visual interest. Opt for muted tones to maintain a feeling of warmth and calm.

What are the different materials and textures for carpets?

Choosing the right material for your carpet is just as vital as making sure you have the right colour and style.

Types of material

• Wool: Luxurious and soft, offers excellent insulation and stain resistance. Available in various colours and textures, from plush to looped.

• Sisal: Durable and naturally stain-resistant, ideal for high-traffic areas. Provides a coarse, rustic texture.

• Jute: Similar to sisal but softer and more affordable. Offers a natural, earthy look.

• Seagrass: Smooth and slightly shiny, adds a coastal vibe. Not as durable as sisal but still suitable for moderate traffic areas.

Types of pile

• Saxony: This is a popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms because it is soft and luxurious. It has a dense pile of fibres that are all the same length and are tightly twisted.

• Plush: Plush carpets are similar to Saxony carpets, but they have a shorter pile height. This makes them easier to clean and maintain, but they are not as soft.

• Berber: Berber carpets are made from uncut loops of yarn. They are very durable and stain-resistant, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas. However, they can be rough on bare feet.

• Level loop: Level loop carpets have loops of yarn that are all the same height. They are similar to Berber carpets in terms of durability and stain resistance, but they are not as rough on bare feet.

• Multi-level loop: Multi-level loop carpets have loops of yarn that are different heights. This creates a textured look that can be very stylish.

Cut and loop: This type of carpet combines loops and cut fibres to create a patterned look. They are a good choice for hiding dirt and footprints.

Other styles

• Patterned: Available in a wide variety of designs, from geometric to floral. They can be a great way to add personality to a room.

• Solid: These are a classic choice that can be used in any room. They come in a wide variety of colours to choose from.

• Textured: Textured carpets have a raised surface that can add visual interest to a room. They are available in a variety of materials, including wool, sisal, and jute.