How Designers Choose & Use Wall-to-Wall Carpet: 10 Tips
Is wall-to-wall carpet outdated? Is there a world in which carpet can look chic and sophisticated? While many have been replacing their carpet with hardwoods this past decade, I’m here to tell you there is still a time & place for wall-to-wall carpet… and yes, it can look beautiful and classic. Not only does carpet help with acoustics, insulation, and instantly makes a room feel cozy, but it feels luxe underfoot. It adds texture, warmth, character, and can help give you that coveted Nancy Meyers aesthetic (if that’s what you’re after)… think coastal beach cottage or layered colonial. Click through for 10 of my best tips on how designers choose and use wall-to-wall carpet!
Two years ago, we found ourselves replacing our upstairs carpet throughout the bedrooms. The existing carpet was dull, drab, and gray, but many were surprised to learn we weren’t planning to replace it with hardwoods- like the rest of our home. Instead, I found a basic wool carpet that fit the budget, was durable, and had a timeless aesthetic. I actually love wall-to-wall carpet in a bedroom, and I’m even a fan of layering rugs over broadloom carpet. Here are some design rules I adhere to when making carpet selections for a cozy and classic look:
1. Opt for a Low Pile
Low pile carpet is durable, makes layering rugs easier, and has better longevity- in terms of style. Always choose a low pile and avoid larger loops or shag.
2. Stick to a Natural Material
I always look for timeless materials like wool, jute, sisal, or even a blend… often times you’ll find a wool blend that includes performance materials that further the durability and longevity. Many synthetic carpets and rugs are made of harmful fibers that contain polypropylene and formaldehyde- so it’s best to avoid those.
3. Choose a Classic Texture or Pattern
Keep the pattern or texture simple… herringbone, a classic waffle weave, plaid, or a subtle stripe all have a timeless aesthetic. In my experience, carpet isn’t the best place to get creative. Instead, have more fun with color, pattern, and texture when layering a rug over your carpet (since it’s a less permanent solution). When choosing carpet, we’re thinking longterm.
4. Select a Neutral Color
Along those same lines, choose a neutral carpet swatch. These were the top two choices for our upstairs carpet. I landed on the lower swatch, but it’s one of those chameleon colors that changes depending on the light and time of day. I like a little warmth!
5. Plan Tight and Tailored Thresholds or Transitions
Poorly installed carpet shows… and it’s not a good look. Be sure to plan seams, tight & tailored edges, and clean thresholds. Where our hardwood flooring meets the carpet, feels very seamless and flush. Those transitions make a big difference in the overall aesthetic. Finding a good carpet installer is key! It really is an art.
6. Consider Edge Binding or a Room Border
You can also order broadloom carpet with a finished edge… essentially, a giant rug perfectly fitted to your room and its architectural quirks (winding around columns, millwork, etc). In our above laundry room, you can see I did just that. I ordered a custom size carpet with a bound edge. While more expensive, this is a great option if you’re worried about committing longterm and don’t require a carpet pad.
7. Layer a Rug
Don’t be afraid to layer rugs over your wall-to-wall carpet. This creates a beautiful and timeless aesthetic, just be sure to use a rug pad to keep your rug in place, and your carpet protected beneath it. Check out this post for more tips on why you shouldn’t skip the rug pad! It’s an important one.
8. Keep it Clean
After replacing the carpet throughout our upper bedrooms, we vowed to keep it looking new. How? The best way is to regularly vacuum and clean it. We also have our carpets professionally cleaned once a year. Carpet is one of those materials that can easily look tired and worn, so it’s best to stay on top of it with regular maintenance… no different than sealing your marble countertops. It’s a material that is prone to collecting dust and dirt, so regular housekeeping is a must.
9. Repeat the Color or Texture Elsewhere in the Room
You don’t want your wall-to-wall carpet to feel like an afterthought or budget cut… to make it feel cohesive in a room, be sure to repeat the same color, texture, or warmth elsewhere in the space. In the above example, you’ll see I installed a woven wall mirror that brings in the same natural material. Those curated layers are very intentional for creating a well-designed room.
10. Install Carpet in Appropriate Rooms
Am I recommending an entire house filled of carpet? Of course not. Gone are the 1990s where carpet was even installed throughout kitchens and baths. No thank you! So, which rooms are best suited for wall-to-wall carpet? Bedrooms, kids rooms & nurseries, walk-in closets, family rooms, etc. Think of spaces that are inherently cozy.
Favorite Classic Swatches
Click directly on each swatch below to be redirected.
I wanted to share some of my top picks with you! These swatches are all designer-approved by yours truly. I’d love to hear what type of broadloom carpets you gravitate toward. Are there certain patterns, colors, or materials?
FAQ
Yes- from my shop, Tuesday Made. We sell natural fiber area rugs in any size you’d like. They’re all beautiful! Check out this post for all the details on my runner, along with the installation process: How to Install a Stair Runner with an Easy Staircase Landing.
Depending on the material and type of carpet you purchase, you may have options for the carpet pad. I’d ask the retailer or manufacturer what the possibilities are…certain carpets require certain pads. They also make stain resistant and waterproof pads that are helpful for homes with pets or kids.
Related
Looking for more posts on carpet, flooring, or interior design & renovating dilemmas that require designer advice? I’m going to drop some favorites for you below…
- Replacing Our Upstairs Carpet
- The Best Natural Fiber Area Rugs
- How to Remove Furniture Indentations from Carpet
- How to Install Herringbone Hardwood
- Our Entryway Tile + Alternative Options
- How to Install Hardwood Flooring In a Basement
- Keywords to Use When Searching for Large Vintage Rugs
- 20 Things Every Bedroom Should Have (According to A Designer)
- How to Refinish Hardwood Floors Like a Pro
- Why You Shouldn’t Skip the Rug Pad
I hope this post was helpful if you’re in the market for carpet! Don’t worry… it’s not out of style, it’s not going to feel dated, and it’s certainly going to feel cozy underfoot. You heard it here! Let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below. I’m happy to help! Here’s to a great week ahead.