Much like paintwork or wallcoverings, carpets are one of the best and easiest ways to convey a theme and add a touch of ‘personality’ to a room or space. They can form a ‘neutral’ foundation for the rest of the room’s design in the background. Or, alternatively, a brightly coloured or vibrantly patterned carpet can form the focal point of an interior.
Brintons’ work in the Ramada Encore Dar Es Salaamel, Tanzania (Photo: brintons.net)
Indeed, manufacturing techniques and technology allow manufacturers – like HD Directory members Brintons, Wilton, Interface and Lano – to create carpets and rugs with patterns and textures such as swirls, bows, lattices, plaids, dots and fleur-de-lis.
Wilton’s 1970s-inspired designs at Cranfield Management Development Centre (Photo: wiltoncarpets.com)
This year, there are a few design trends that will impact carpets and their implementation in spaces in the months ahead. Wider trends such as the emergence of warm minimalism, the rise and rise of Scandinavian design and rustic simplicity – which incorporates Mediterranean style with ‘contemporary country’ will all have an impact on carpet and rug design.
The ‘Over the Edge’ range from Interface Hospitality (Photo: interfacehospitality.com)
More specifically to carpets, and those with a more conservative approach, new neutral colours – like soft greens, pale yellows and subtle blues – are more likely to be used if the standard tans, beiges and creams aren’t used. Furthermore, flecks of colour will be incorporated into these schemes. Textures and patterns are becoming more popular because vacuum marks are less likely to show up on these carpets. Additionally, these textures also give guests an impression of high quality and can contrast perfectly with smoother surfaces such as counters, wardrobes and walls.
Lano’s pale yellow carpets in the Fraser Suites, Le Claridge Champs-Elysees (Photo: lano.com/en)
For designers wanting to make a bit more of a statement, attention-seeking carpets with bold colours and patterns can work when set against neutral wallcoverings. Also, 1970s-inspired design will play a big role in the year ahead and we could see elements of this make its way into carpet design.
