Homeowners, Designers Coming Back to Carpet

In recent years, hard surface floors like hardwood, tile, laminate and luxury vinyl have dominated the interior design scene with carpet taking a backseat. However, that is changing, as homeowners and designers are once again embracing the comfort, warmth and versatility that carpet provides.

But why the sudden shift in preferences?

Technological Advancements
Concerns that once made homeowners wary of choosing carpet are being addressed by manufacturers. The performance, durability and maintenance of carpet has significantly improved with innovation and advancements in carpet technology. Stain resistant fibres, antimicrobial treatments and moisture-wicking properties are making carpet a more practical choice for families, pet owners and anyone looking for a low-maintenance option. In addition, new carpet construction methods, like tufting and weaving, ensure carpet is more durable and long-lasting than ever before.

Comfort and Warmth
Carpet has always been the go-to for homeowners seeking coziness and warmth; however, with the era of sleek, minimalist interiors, hard surface floors dominated. Homeowners are now shifting their focus to wellness, and prioritizing comfort and creating environments that promote relaxation. Carpet provides just that with its tactile warmth and softness, which many other flooring materials simply cannot replicate.

Carpet also adds that sense of luxury underfoot, especially in the bedroom, living room or home office. Finally, for our colder Canadian climate, carpet offers an additional layer of insulation, helping to retain heat and improve overall comfort of a space.

Interior Design Trends
From classic carpet styles to striking colours and patterns, luxurious, deep-pile carpets to sleek, low-pile options, there’s a carpet to suit any design aesthetic. Whether it’s timeless neutrals with a traditional feel or a bold, modern statement, carpet can be used to compliment a wide range of interior styles. It can either blend seamlessly with the design or stand out as a focal point. With open-plan layouts, carpet can also be used to help define different spaces.

Affordability and Versatility
Carpet is one of the most low-cost flooring options, especially when compared with high-end hardwood or stone flooring. Homeowners are increasingly drawn to carpet thanks to its affordability and wide range of options, whether they are outfitting a rental property, renovating a home on a budget or creating an economical yet stylish space.

The versatility in styles gives homeowners tons of flexibility when it comes to designing their space. With plush, low-pile and textured options, there’s a carpet for any room, from high-traffic areas like hallways and stairs, to more tranquil spaces like bedrooms and living rooms.

Indoor Air Quality and Wellness
A common misconception of carpet is that it’s bad for indoor air quality (IAQ). This has since been debunked; carpet is now known for its ability to improve IAQ. Modern carpets, thanks to technology advancements, are now being designed with filtration systems, which can reduce airborne dust, pet dander and other particles. Many new carpet designs feature hypoallergenic treatments that help with reducing allergens, making them an appealing option for households with asthma or allergies.

On top of improving IAQ, carpet helps absorb and dampen sound to create a quieter, more peaceful environment, perfect for reducing noise in a busy home or urban condo.

Brooks Jamieson is the social media manager with Canada Nufloors Group Inc., a 100 per cent member-owned Canadian marketing/business group of Nufloors flooring stores. Currently, there are 24 locations across Canada. Brooks can be reached at [email protected].