Many years ago it was impossible to imagine any home without carpets on the walls or floor. They were not of an aesthetic nature, but rather practical. Houses built during the Soviet Union had very thin walls and required additional insulation. Carpets that were hung on the walls and retained heat coped with this task. In recent years, modern designers have again begun to return to the theme of carpets that decorate the floors in various rooms. The most popular option was carpets in the living room. They not only create comfort and prevent your feet from getting cold, but can also emphasize and complement any design solution.
A well-chosen carpet will become a full-fledged part of the living room interior
Criteria for choosing a floor carpet for the living room
In order to understand how to choose the right carpet for the living room, you need to take into account many factors: the size of the room, the color scheme in which it is decorated, the design of the room, the amount of furniture in it and personal preferences.
A carpet in a single color scheme will put an end to the interior design of the living room
If you need a carpet, and not a rug or carpet, then you need to approach this issue with all seriousness, choose carefully so that this design element does not become a bright and vulgar spot in the middle of the room and does not show a lack of taste. It is very important to make a choice of flooring, focusing not only on its cost, but also on the quality, manufacturer and frequency of the pile.
Carpet shapes
The criteria for the right choice imply choosing this piece of furniture of the correct shape, which will not only look beautiful on the floor, but will also harmonize with the furniture in the living room. You can find many options on sale that amaze with their design, shape and colors. There are a lot of models that have more decorative shapes of flowers, animals and other things. It looks interesting, but when choosing such decor, it is worth considering the fact that this floor design should be combined with the overall interior, and not stand out from it, focusing all the attention on itself.
Modern carpets vary in manufacturing method, shape, color, density and length of pile
Oval
An oval floor rug looks stylish in a living room interior and can suit a long, narrow room. This form will look harmonious with any interior and design. This type is not suitable for a small room - there it will not look good and highlight the surrounding interior items. It is not advisable to place furniture on such a carpet, because the distinctive feature of this item is its shape. It is also beneficial that in this type of carpet there are no corners that will not constantly break and create discomfort.
The oval carpet does not have sharp corners, which helps to visually expand the space of the room.
Round
A round carpet has almost the same characteristics as an oval one - the absence of corners, emphasizing interior details that are located near the wall, or the necessary accent can be created by placing a round coffee table in the center of this decor. You can emphasize the shape of other round objects: chandeliers, furniture, mirrors, patterns on wallpaper, with the help of such a carpet.
Using a medium-sized round rug you can divide a room into zones
This is a good option for creating coziness in the room. A small rug with a deep pile in front of the fireplace would be especially ideal - it will create a romantic atmosphere and a feeling of peace.
And others
A large assortment of carpets allows you to choose from for any room and interior.
Angular, rectangular or square shapes will emphasize the geometry that can be found in the room along with furniture or through other objects with sharp corners. This is a classic shape and allows you to place a sofa or other furniture on the cover.
A rectangular rug with a colorful pattern can become the central composition in a living room decorated in neutral tones.
An original idea to use a carpet that combines many different geometric shapes to create a stylish atmosphere. This type of flooring is suitable for a large square room designed in a high-tech or art-house style. It’s not bad if you place several small rugs of various shapes in the room - this is very popular now.
A bright, irregularly shaped carpet will play the role of an expressive accent in the interior of the living room.
Space correction
The shape of the carpet is also important in terms of adjusting the space of the room. So, if it is necessary to increase it, large carpets that do not contain detailed patterns are introduced into the interior. A carpet will help make your living room look longer.
A carpet will make the living room visually longer
Small carpets that follow the contours of a non-standard sofa or dessert table can reduce the size of too large areas and fill the room with harmony. It’s good if the design of the products echoes the compositional design of the upholstery of upholstered furniture and other textiles. The only disadvantage in this case will be that when the situation changes, the carpets may remain out of use.
The pattern of the carpet repeats the pattern of the furniture in the living room
Model size selection
In order to understand which carpet to choose for the living room and choose the right size, you also need to take into account the dimensions of the room. Designers advise that when choosing this type of covering, choose a size so that it does not reach the wall by about 20-30 cm. If the room is heavily crowded with furniture, then the optimal size is small and placed in a place where there is no or little furniture.
Large carpets visually reduce the size of the room, especially if they are made in a dark color palette
Types of carpets by size:
- Small – has a total area of three square meters. The following types can be found on sale: 0.6x1.1 m; 0.8x1.5 m; 1x2 m; 1.5x2 m.
- Medium - have a total area of three to six square meters. Types that are sold: 2x3 m, 1.5x2 m.
- Large - has an area of more than six square meters. Main dimensions: 2x3.5 m; 2x4 m; 2.5x4 m; 3x4 m; 3x5 m.
Carpet for various interior styles
It is very important that the carpets in the living room interior are combined with the overall design of the room. For each style, all the details in the room should be combined with each other, creating one whole impression and uniting into a harmonious connection. Therefore, when choosing this interior element, it is important to combine it with the chosen style in the room.
A carpet with a beautiful floral pattern is suitable for a living room in Provence style
Modern
This style involves not only the use of modern technologies and materials when creating various interior details, but also transferring modern motifs and patterns to the surface of the carpets. This style implies unusual, original things with bright prints. But this does not mean that a plain carpet will not fit into the interior. An unusual shape, many rugs of various sizes, and bright colors are also welcome.
A carpet with a clearly defined geometric pattern is a suitable solution for a modern interior
Classical
When choosing a suitable design project for the living room, you need to ensure that all things are compatible with each other. If the choice fell on the classic style, then the carpet in this room should be of a regular shape and light colors. Classicism loves exquisite things, and this also applies to floor coverings. It is advisable that it does not have bright patterns or large prints that attract undue attention and distract from the main idea of the design. The material for the production of this product must be natural and good quality. A carpet made of wool and silk is welcome.
A carpet with clear shapes looks great in a classic interior.
And others
Each style should have its own special interior elements. Carpeting for a minimalist style should be subdued tones and preferably a single color. If you want to buy a carpet with a pattern, then it is best to choose one with small, dim patterns.
Gray lint-free carpet in a minimalist living room
African style is one of the most striking and eye-catching. For him, things should be selected that resemble animals living on this continent. If you choose a carpet in the form of zebra or leopard skin, this will complement this style with the necessary touches and allow you to emphasize it with interesting accents. A good move is to choose sofa cushions in the same color as the carpet.
A rug in the shape of an African animal skin goes well with leather furniture
Modern carpets. What are they?
Wool and silk carpets have been known since ancient times, but today the textured range of these products has expanded significantly. Synthetic raw materials are actively used in their production. What qualities are inherent in the carpets presented to us to choose from?
So. On the counters we see carpets in modern designs from:
- Wool.
- Wool blend.
- Silks.
- Viscose.
- Knitwear.
- Cotton.
- Juta.
- Polyamide.
- Polypropylene.
- Polyester.
Wool models
A living room carpet made of wool is considered a classic solution, and a rather expensive solution. The main raw material for their production remains sheepskin. They are machine woven and handmade. Wool carpets are divided according to the height of the pile. There are cropped types with short pile and long-haired models. The latter are usually decorated with a large-print, simple pattern or left plain. A multi-colored small pattern looks beautiful on cropped products. The clarity of the shade transition lines is very valuable. A wool carpet is a noble and solid product that can be used in the living room for about half a century.
A carpet made of natural wool will serve you for many years
The disadvantage of these types is considered to be easy contamination, fear of moths and mold. In modern production conditions, these problems are successfully combated by treating raw materials with special compounds. Wool does not absorb dyes very well, so natural carpets always have a calm color palette. However, this cannot be called a disadvantage, because even after tens of years the appearance of the carpet will not change at all. The brightness of the colors will remain original. Nothing will fade or fade.
Wool carpet is fade resistant
Wool-blend types A wool-blend carpet in the living room is more practical. Despite the fact that it has the same qualities as previous models, its cost is somewhat lower, and its practicality of use is many times higher, because part of its composition is replaced by synthetic wool.
In a half-wool carpet, some of the fibers are replaced by synthetic ones
Silk types The basis of a silk carpet is also a natural material - fiber produced by the silkworm. Such products belong to the category of extra-class, and therefore have an incredibly high cost. Silk carpets are magnificent. They keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. They are made exclusively by hand. Since the silk thread is very thin, this makes it possible to reproduce pictures on the canvas in the smallest detail. A silk rug is suitable for the living room because it is very durable and always looks aesthetically pleasing.
Silk carpets are particularly durable
Its pile has a unique shine, adding solemnity to the atmosphere. With its beauty, the carpet can easily compete with the paintings of great artists. Silk products have some performance problems. So, they do not tolerate direct exposure to the sun and fade if the washing mode is incorrectly selected.
Knitted types These are products with a durable base. The disadvantage of such carpets is their low moisture resistance. They are not washable. They are monitored exclusively with a vacuum cleaner. The short service life is compensated by the low cost.
Cozy knitted rug
Viscose types Although this fiber is a derivative of the chemical industry, it is a natural type of thread, as it is made from cellulose, a material obtained from ordinary wood. Thanks to this origin, a viscose carpet can easily find its way into the living room and become an excellent replacement for the carpet models discussed above.
Viscose carpets are distinguished by their durability
In appearance, a product made of viscose is very similar to silk. Viscose threads are simply dyed, which allows you to create colorful designs when weaving them. These carpets are durable, so they can be the best option for a walk-through room like a living room. The only drawback is increased hygroscopicity.
Cotton types Natural cotton in the composition of a carpet product gives the latter high thermal conductivity. These carpets do not interfere with air exchange and are not afraid of getting wet. This type of carpet is suitable even for allergy sufferers. In terms of cost, cotton carpets are classified as affordable. Among the disadvantages, low elasticity and tendency to deformation deserve attention.
Cotton carpets are environmentally friendly and suitable for allergy sufferers
Jute types Jute also belongs to a series of natural materials. Its thread is a derivative of linden. A jute rug is suitable for the living room because it is environmentally friendly, beautiful and durable. The product must be protected from getting wet. During the drying process, jute fiber shrinks greatly.
Jute carpet made from natural fibers
Polyamide types This is a fairly common material in modern carpet weaving. Carpets made from polyamide threads are distinguished by:
- Elasticity.
- Brightness of the picture.
- Fire resistance.
- Elasticity.
Shiny fibers give the carpet an extraordinary decorative effect, which is why products of this class often appear in living rooms. Polyamide carpets are wear-resistant. They are easy to wash and dry. The colors of the drawing do not fade over time. An excellent track record of performance is spoiled by the high electrification of the fabric and the risk of fiber breakage.
Polyamide carpets are wear-resistant and easy to care for
Polypropylene types These are the most unassuming carpets for the living room. Their structure is not filled with dust and dirt. The polypropylene carpet amazes with its riot of colors and depth of colors, but the product is absolutely not designed for long-term use. A bright representative of the polypropylene series is a hit set. This is the only inherently antistatic synthetic type of carpet. Disadvantages include easy flammability.
Polypropylene carpet in bright colors
Polyester types Externally, polyester products are very similar to woolen carpets. They are also soft and easy to use. The material practically does not wrinkle, is easy to care for and does not fade at all. There is only one drawback: it is static.
Polyester carpet hardly wrinkles
There is another type of carpet that has recently found its way onto store shelves - sculptural. The pile is stuffed into them using the tufting technique. After stuffing the warp, the threads are cut, creating three-dimensional patterns. The stuffing uses not only multi-colored, but also different-textured threads. Synthetic elements may well be interspersed with areas of wool.
Sculptural carpets with three-dimensional patterns
Choice of color and pattern
When choosing a floor covering, it is very important to choose the right pattern on it.
- If the different patterns are bright, contrasting, large, then such a carpet should match the style of the room.
- If you choose a rug in a modern style, then such prints will be relevant.
- But if the room is in subdued colors, then a large pattern on the carpet will distract all attention to itself, and the surrounding environment will seem faded and unattractive against this background.
The color scheme is very important, since in a small room, flooring in light, pastel shades will visually make it larger, but in a large living room area you can use darker colors.
Light carpets
A light shade always looks attractive and solemn, but many are afraid to use it to cover the floor for purely practical purposes, due to the fact that it is very easily soiled and will have to be cleaned frequently. This opinion is erroneous, since pastel, soft colors will always create a cozy atmosphere that calms the nervous system and has a beneficial effect on a person’s well-being. Also, these shades will suit any style and, if the room’s windows face north, then they will also make the living room lighter and more spacious.
Plain fluffy rug in a light shade in a white sunny living room
Red carpets
Red color attracts attention and catches the eye. A carpet of this color should complement the overall color scheme in the room, but can also be a single accent that will make the room unusual and original. This is the color of passion and strong emotions, but if you combine it with other, lighter tones, you can dilute this aggressive color and make it softer, more comfortable.
Red and burgundy carpet in the living room of an eclectic design
There is no need to choose “acid” shades; soft dark reds, mixed with orange or blue, will create a harmonious combination of the carpet with the design of the entire living room.
And others
Various shades and their combinations on one surface are suitable for the avant-garde style and will add the necessary color accents to the room. It is very important to consider which side the windows face: to the north you need to use soft, warm shades, to the south you can choose a carpet of cool colors.
A worn carpet will add a little casualness to the interior and make the atmosphere more relaxed.
If the floor itself is dark in color, then the carpet should be lighter so that it does not get lost against this background.
Rug or rug in the kitchen: advantages and disadvantages
Another advantage of carpets is that they help protect the flooring from damage; for example, a carpet will well protect a plastic laminate from damage.
Pros of carpeting in the kitchen:
It is necessary when there is a small child or an elderly person in the house, as it can soften a person’s fall. In these cases, a rug is especially needed if tiles are used as the floor covering.
The rug is well suited for zoning the kitchen and living room, expanding its space. Carpets for the dining area are used for these purposes.
This also emphasizes the “living” function of the kitchen, which is important for a large kitchen space.
Of particular functional importance is a rug under your feet in the area where food is prepared. Since legs often get very tired while cooking, a shock-absorbing mat will be very convenient for home cooks.
Flaws:
- The rug on the kitchen floor quickly gets dirty, dust accumulates in it and under it, all this reduces the hygiene of the kitchen environment;
- caring for these things complicates home cleaning;
- Since kitchen carpets need to be cleaned or washed frequently, they wear out quickly.
Carpet materials
Also, when choosing a floor covering, it is important to consider the material from which it is made. A carpet can be colorful and fit perfectly into the interior, but if it is made from low-quality fibers, is subject to fading, shrinks and does not last long, then such an investment does not make sense, since after a few years you will have to throw it out and go buy a new covering. There are products on sale made from natural or artificial materials.
It is better not to lay a carpet made of natural material in the area of greatest traffic
Wool
A natural material that is durable and holds heat well, is used in the production of carpets. The fibers cannot be dyed in bright colors, but they are resistant to fading. These carpets are not cheap.
Wool carpets look expensive and are perfect for classic interiors
Silk
Another natural material that is distinguished by quality, durability and is soft to the touch. This carpet will decorate any home. You can choose from a variety of colorful, special silk carpets that will suit art deco, modern designs.
Silk carpets are even more expensive than wool carpets, but the quality of the coverings fully pays for itself
And others
Viscose is a fiber of artificial origin. It is based on a lot of cellulose, which makes its qualities no worse than natural ones. It feels like silk and has the characteristics of that material. “Artificial silk” is the name it received for this similarity. The advantages of its use can be considered its colorful design, which is achieved thanks to viscose, which holds paint well and is resistant to deformation and creasing. Cons: poor moisture tolerance.
Viscose carpets are several times cheaper than products made from natural materials
Cotton - this material is affordable and holds heat well. It is pleasant to walk on such a surface, but this material shrinks and can become deformed. Jute is an environmentally friendly material, pleasant to the touch. The downside is to prevent moisture from getting on it. Polyamide is the most common material for making modern carpets. It is valued for its qualities: fire resistance, moisture resistance, durable, does not wrinkle, it can be painted in bright colors, it is easy to clean.
Cotton carpet with an abstract pattern, popular among residents of Scandinavian countries
Polypropylene is easy to vacuum clean and does not require special conditions for maintenance. Does not allow dust, dirt and other contaminants into the middle of its fibers, antistatic. The downside is that it doesn't last long. Polyester is another representative of artificial materials for the production of carpets. It is popular due to its properties: softness, durability, moisture resistance, fire resistant, does not fade in the sun.
Polypropylene rugs do not require special care, they are quite beautiful and bright, but they quickly lose their original appearance
Viscose
Viscose fiber is not considered synthetic, as it is made from natural cellulose. During the production process, a thread similar to silk is made from raw materials, which is why viscose is often called rayon.
Carpets made from this material are wear-resistant and much cheaper than their natural counterparts with a similar appearance. However, viscose does not tolerate moisture well and requires daily care. Therefore, such carpet products are usually located in the living room or office of the house, where there are no small children or pets.
Photos of examples of living room interiors with carpet on the floor
You need to carefully select a carpet for the floor in the living room photo, since this element of the interior is not cheap and changing it will cost additional money. It should emphasize the style in which the living room is decorated and place the necessary accents in it.
Factory-made carpets made from artificial materials retain their shape the longest
A modern carpet for the floor in the living room photo should have an unusual print and be combined with the design of the living room. The color, size and shape are perfect for a room decorated in a modern style. This carpet looks original, attractive and looks like a painting by a modern artist. The owners will feel comfortable in the room where there is such a carpet, and the guests will be amazed by it.
A carpet of unusual design will take its rightful place in the interior of the living room
Definitely a light shade, with a pattern of exquisite curls, a classic shape - this is an ideal carpet for use in a classic style. It will not only add another sophisticated touch to the interior, but will also be a practical interior detail. It must be made of natural material and be of good quality.
A large carpet with a colorful pattern on the floor of the living room in the style of American classics
The living room is the face of its owner, and every detail is important in it, which emphasizes good taste, creates coziness and comfort from the stay of all family members and guests who visit this apartment. By placing a carpet on the floor, you can further insulate it and add an interesting interior detail to the room.
