Ready to purchase that area carpet you’ve been imagining in the dining room? Here’s a step-by-step guide to purchasing the perfect area carpet.
Step 1: Function first. To maximize value, it’s critical to assess a carpet’s ability to meet the needs of the user. Is the space comfortable and casual or empty-nest formal? Casual rooms work well with a loop pile, while more formal settings typically feature tight, cut pile. Consider soft and plush for a child-friendly space and low pile for pets.
Step 2: Size matters. As a general rule, a larger area carpet gives the illusion of more space. It also has the ability to embrace the full seating area. Make sure to create a floor plan before you head to the store. To save money, opt for a broadloom cut. For drama and impact, head to a decorative carpet studio where you’ll find a wide selection of sizes.
Step 3: Why wool is best. Wool’s inherent ability to repel stains means that maintenance is easy and durability is high. Wool is resilient and vacuums like a dream, making it a great match for children and pets. For staircases, nothing has more lasting power. Manufacturers often blend wool with complementary materials such as silk to add glamour or cotton to create a more casual look. Silk is another hard-wearing material, but you’ll want to use it in areas where natural lighting is limited.
Step 4: Pattern and colour. To select a pattern and colour that suits the interior, you’ll want to consider other elements in the room. Ideally, your carpet supplier will allow you to try the carpet at home before making a final decision. For modern or contemporary rooms, designers often choose geometric or abstract patterns to inject drama and style. In traditional settings, patterns such as Persian, Aubusson, ikat and dhurrie are more appropriate. While an area carpet doesn’t need to “match” the room, its style should complement the interior.
Step 5: Start the project. Since area carpets are often a larger investment, it makes sense to begin a design project with the carpet. Find an area carpet that appeals and it’s easy to build a room around that signature piece.
Step 6: Pulling it together. With the new area carpet in place, it’s easy to add furniture and accessories that complement. Nothing quite pulls the room together like the right area carpet under foot.
Courtesy Kimberley Seldon
www.kimberleyseldon.com
@kimberleyseldon
Reprinted with permission from Dabble Magazine.