Are you sure your home looks as stylish as you think it does?
Most likely, there is one detail hidden in it that annoys guests, spoils the impression and makes the space cheaper.
Designers have been arguing about it for decades, but they remain silent so as not to offend clients. It's time to reveal the truth.
What is this detail?
We are talking about long-pile carpets in the living room. Yes, those same “fluffy ones” that seem cozy, but in fact turn the room into a dust collector and visually reduce the space.
A study by the Interior Design Institute found that 67% of respondents associated such rugs with sloppiness, even if they are clean.
Why guests can't stand them:
1. They look dirty even if you vacuum them every day. Short dust fibers get stuck in the pile and create a grayish effect.
2. They make the interior look older. Long-pile carpets are a relic of the 90s, associated with granny apartments.
3. They are dangerous for allergy sufferers. According to WHO, such carpets accumulate 5 times more allergens than smooth surfaces.
What to replace? 3 stylish options
1. Carpets with short pile or flat structure
Pros: easy to clean, do not accumulate dust, suit any style - from Scandinavian to loft.
Example: jute carpets, mats, models with geometric prints.
Tip: choose a size 20-30 cm smaller than the sofa. This will visually enlarge the room.
2. Carpet tiles
Pros: you can combine colors and patterns, replace a damaged section, and not the entire carpet.
Idea: Create an "island" under a coffee table or next to a chair.
According to ArchDaily research, this option is 40% more practical for families with children and animals.
3. Floor without carpet
Pros: laminate, parquet or tiles visually expand the space.
Tip: Add coziness with textiles – blankets, pillows or woolen chair covers.
Important! If you are afraid of a cold floor, use a "warm floor" system - it is cheaper than it seems.
What if you're not ready to part with your carpet?
1. Remove it from the spotlight. Move it to the bedroom or study - guests won't see it there.
2. Use as an accent only. A small fluffy rug by the bed is fine, but not in the center of the living room.
3. Buy a washable alternative. For example, silicone rugs from Ruggable are machine washable.
Why does this work?
1. Guests will stop silently judging your interior. According to a Houzz survey, 54% of people notice the carpet as soon as they enter the apartment.
2. You will save time on cleaning. Short pile requires 3 times less care.
3. The room will become brighter. Smooth surfaces reflect light better than “shaggy” textures.
Author: Dmitry Bobrov
