Fitted carpets have long been a quintessential feature of British homes, tracing back to the 1970s, where they provided warmth and insulation in soothing shades of beige and grey. However, an interiors expert has now revealed that rather than being charmingly retro, a sea of wall-to-wall fabric is making houses feel 'dated' and stuffy. The elevated, 'posh' choice, according to design professionals, is now rugs.
The Shift Away from Traditional Carpets
Jordana Ashkenazi, Design Director and Founder of Element One House, shared her insights with the Daily Mail, noting a significant trend in recent projects. 'In my experience, across the last four projects I have completed, not one client has opted for carpet, even in bedrooms, which I found surprising,' she said. 'Instead, they have all chosen wood flooring or tiles, which really reflects a wider shift in how people want their homes to feel and function.'
Ashkenazi explained that carpets, particularly in lighter tones like beige or cream, can quickly make a property feel scruffy and old as stains show over time. 'Nothing dates a home quite like a worn carpet,' she emphasised. 'Once that happens, a carpet can very quickly make a property feel scruffy and old, which is the opposite of what people want.'
Embracing Timeless and Flexible Flooring
The expert highlighted a move towards more timeless and flexible flooring options. 'Wood remains a classic, whether laid in chevron, herringbone or planks, and there are now so many high quality alternatives available,' she advised. For instance, she recently installed a herringbone tile floor that mimics wood but offers superior durability and ease of maintenance. Natural stones and wood-effect tiles also provide visual warmth, especially when paired with underfloor heating.
Meanwhile, rugs have become the more elevated choice in many homes. 'They feel more design led and intentional,' Ashkenazi noted. While layered rugs are often discussed, she observed that multiple rugs are being used in a considered way, with different shapes, sizes, or colours creating a cohesive look. 'Rugs also give you far more flexibility. They add warmth, texture and personality, but crucially, they can be changed as trends evolve or as wear and tear sets in.'
The Role of Underfloor Heating
A key factor driving this shift is the increasing popularity of underfloor heating. Ashkenazi pointed out that it is becoming more common and affordable, transforming how hard flooring feels. 'Wood and tiles are no longer seen as cold, they can feel just as comfortable as carpet,' she shared. This technology allows for the removal of bulky radiators, freeing up valuable wall space in smaller homes for storage or furniture.
Additionally, underfloor heating aligns with a lifestyle-driven shift. 'Underfloor heating is now seen as a more elevated and considered way to heat a home,' Ashkenazi added. Modern systems offer sophisticated controls via apps or wall panels, enabling zoning to heat specific areas efficiently, unlike traditional radiators that require maintenance and are tied to boilers.
Navigating Trends and Personal Preferences
Ashkenazi cautioned against getting caught up in fast-moving interior trends, which she compared to fast fashion. 'Interiors are almost having a fast fashion moment now. Trends are moving quicker than ever, whereas before they would last for years,' she said. For those who enjoy updating their spaces, she recommends a timeless base with interchangeable layers like rugs, cushions, and throws. 'Being able to switch out rugs, soft furnishings and accessories means your home can evolve with trends, without the cost and commitment of replacing something like carpet throughout.'
Ultimately, she advocates for a classic floor paired with rugs as the best of both worlds. 'It keeps the base of the home timeless and practical, while allowing you to refresh the look over time,' Ashkenazi concluded. 'With carpets, once they start to stain or wear, you are often stuck with them, and that is when a home can start to feel dated very quickly.'
