When designing or renovating your home or commercial space, flooring decisions carry significant weight, particularly in high-traffic areas. Whether it’s a busy kitchen, a bustling hallway, or an office lobby, choosing the right flooring for these areas is essential to ensure longevity, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Flooring in high-traffic zones must be durable enough to handle the wear and tear that comes with regular foot traffic while still offering comfort and style.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best flooring options for high-traffic areas and discuss important factors like durability, comfort, water resistance, and ease of cleaning. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of various flooring materials, you can make an informed decision that suits both your design preferences and practical needs.

What Qualifies as a High-Traffic Area?

Before diving into specific flooring types, it’s essential to define what we mean by “high-traffic areas.” These are spaces in your home or business where people frequently walk, stand, or move items. As a result, these areas experience more wear, dirt buildup, and the occasional scuff or spill. Common high-traffic areas include:

• Entryways and Foyers: The entrance to your home or office sees a lot of foot traffic and often bears the brunt of outdoor dirt and moisture.
• Hallways: Hallways are frequently used passageways, especially in homes with multiple rooms or in office buildings. Their narrow design can lead to concentrated wear in specific spots.
• Kitchens: The heart of many homes, kitchens are high-traffic due to meal preparation and family gatherings, not to mention the likelihood of spills.
• Living Rooms and Family Rooms: As spaces for relaxation and entertainment, living rooms see constant use, whether from family members or visitors.
• Commercial Spaces: In offices, retail stores, or restaurants, flooring must handle heavy daily traffic, as well as the movement of furniture or equipment.

These spaces demand flooring solutions that are not only attractive but can withstand the heavy wear and tear that comes with frequent use.

Key Considerations for High-Traffic Flooring

When choosing flooring for high-traffic areas, it’s not just about looks. You’ll need to consider various practical factors to ensure your choice can withstand the demands of the space. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

1. Durability: The flooring material needs to be tough enough to resist scratches, dents, and general wear. High-traffic areas are subject to more damage than low-traffic rooms, so it’s crucial to choose a material that can handle frequent use.
2. Ease of Cleaning: In areas where dirt, dust, and spills are common, easy maintenance is essential. Look for flooring that can be quickly swept, vacuumed, or mopped without special treatments.
3. Moisture and Stain Resistance: Spills, water, and mud are common in kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms. Choosing flooring materials that are moisture-resistant and less prone to staining will extend their lifespan.
4. Comfort: Some areas, such as kitchens and living rooms, are spaces where people stand or walk frequently. In these rooms, consider choosing flooring that offers comfort underfoot, whether through the material itself or by using a cushioned underlayment.
5. Style: High-traffic areas often serve as transition zones between rooms, so it’s important to select flooring that complements your overall interior design. The right flooring should enhance the aesthetic while maintaining practicality.
6. Cost: Durability and longevity often come at a price, but budget is always an important consideration. Some options like vinyl or laminate may offer a good balance of affordability, durability, and style, while other materials like hardwood may require a more significant investment.

The Best Flooring Options for High-Traffic Areas

With the basics covered, let’s dive into the best types of flooring for high-traffic zones. These materials have proven their resilience in busy households and commercial spaces.

1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Luxury vinyl is a standout option for high-traffic areas due to its impressive durability, affordability, and style flexibility. LVP and LVT come in plank and tile forms, respectively, and offer realistic designs that mimic natural materials like wood and stone.

• Durability: Made from multiple layers, luxury vinyl is built to resist wear and tear. It has a protective top layer that defends against scratches, scuffs, and dents, making it perfect for spaces like kitchens, hallways, and entryways.
• Water and Stain Resistance: LVP and LVT are waterproof, making them ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and mudrooms. Unlike natural wood, vinyl won’t warp or stain when exposed to water or spills.
• Maintenance: Luxury vinyl is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep. Regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional mopping are all it takes to keep it looking new.
• Aesthetics: Modern luxury vinyl comes in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of hardwood, stone, or tile without the cost or maintenance issues associated with natural materials.
• Cost: Compared to other durable options, luxury vinyl is a more budget-friendly choice, offering a great combination of resilience, style, and affordability.

2. Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are renowned for their hardness and durability, making them excellent choices for areas that experience heavy traffic, moisture, and frequent cleaning.

• Durability: Porcelain tile is known for being harder and denser than ceramic, which makes it more resistant to wear and moisture. Both tile options are tough enough to withstand high foot traffic without showing signs of wear, and they are highly resistant to scratching.
• Water Resistance: Tile is inherently water-resistant, making it ideal for entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens. Porcelain, in particular, has a very low water absorption rate, making it the best choice for areas that may see frequent spills or moisture.
• Maintenance: Tile flooring is very easy to maintain, as it can be swept, vacuumed, or mopped with minimal effort. Grout lines, however, may require periodic deep cleaning or sealing to prevent discoloration or mold buildup.
• Aesthetics: Tile comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns, giving you endless design options. You can create everything from classic to contemporary looks with tile, and it can even mimic natural materials like wood and stone.
• Cost: While the initial cost of porcelain or ceramic tile can be higher than some other flooring types, its durability and low maintenance make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

3. Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring brings timeless elegance and natural beauty to any space, making it a highly sought-after choice for homeowners. While it’s durable enough for high-traffic areas, it does require a bit more maintenance than some other options.

• Durability: Solid hardwood can handle heavy foot traffic if properly maintained. However, it is more susceptible to scratches and dents, particularly in homes with pets or children. Engineered hardwood, which consists of a solid wood veneer over a plywood base, offers a bit more durability and is less prone to moisture-related issues.
• Maintenance: Hardwood floors need regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a damp cloth. You may need to refinish hardwood floors every few years to restore their appearance and address surface damage like scratches or fading.
• Aesthetics: Hardwood floors are unmatched in terms of natural beauty and warmth. They come in a wide range of wood species, colors, and finishes, allowing for flexibility in design. Hardwood can elevate the look of both traditional and modern spaces.
• Cost: Hardwood is more expensive than other flooring options, both in terms of upfront costs and long-term maintenance. However, it adds significant value to a home, and its timeless appeal makes it a worthwhile investment.

4. Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood that still offers durability and style. Modern laminate flooring closely mimics the appearance of real wood or stone, giving homeowners the opportunity to achieve the look they want at a lower cost.

• Durability: Laminate flooring is constructed to withstand heavy use. It has a tough top layer that resists scratches, dents, and fading, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.
• Maintenance: Laminate floors are easy to maintain with regular sweeping or vacuuming. Spills should be cleaned up quickly to prevent damage, but overall, laminate requires less upkeep compared to hardwood.
• Aesthetics: Laminate flooring has come a long way in recent years. High-quality laminate closely resembles natural wood, stone, or tile, offering a stylish look without the high price or maintenance associated with those materials.
• Cost: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that still delivers durability and a polished look, making it an excellent choice for those seeking value.

Choosing the right flooring for high-traffic areas requires a careful balance of durability, style, and maintenance. Whether you opt for luxury vinyl, tile, hardwood, or laminate, each material has its strengths that make it well-suited for busy spaces. By assessing your specific needs, budget, and design preferences, you can find the perfect flooring option that not only holds up to heavy use but also enhances the overall look and feel of your home or business. With the right flooring, your high-traffic areas can remain functional, stylish, and easy to maintain for years to come.

Refresh Your Home This Fall with New Flooring: Get Ready for the Holidays

As the school year begins and the days grow shorter, there’s a natural shift in focus from outdoor adventures to indoor comfort. The transition from summer to fall is an ideal time to consider home upgrades, especially when it comes to your flooring. With the holidays on the horizon, installing new flooring now can help you create a beautiful, comfortable, and inviting home for the festive season.

Experience the Warmth of New Carpet

As the weather cools, carpet becomes an increasingly attractive option for homeowners looking to add warmth and comfort to their spaces. The soft, plush feel of new carpet provides a cozy retreat from the chill of fall and winter, making it the perfect choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas where comfort is key.

Carpet offers several benefits beyond its warmth and comfort. It acts as an insulator, helping to retain heat within a room and potentially lowering energy costs. This is particularly important during the colder months when heating bills can be a concern. Additionally, carpet provides a soft, cushioned surface that is gentle on the feet and can reduce the strain of standing for long periods.

For families with children, carpeting offers added safety benefits. The soft surface of carpet can cushion falls and reduce the risk of injury, making it a great choice for playrooms, nurseries, and other areas where children are likely to spend a lot of time. Additionally, carpet is less likely to cause slips and falls compared to harder flooring surfaces, making it a safer option overall.

When it comes to aesthetics, carpet offers endless possibilities. With a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures available, you can choose a carpet that perfectly complements your home’s décor. Whether you prefer the look of a luxurious, deep-pile carpet or a more practical, low-pile option, there is a style to suit every taste.

Another important consideration when choosing carpet is its sound-dampening qualities. Carpet can significantly reduce noise levels within a home, making it an excellent choice for busy households where noise can be an issue. This is particularly useful in multi-story homes, where carpet can help to muffle the sound of footsteps and other activities from above.

As the holiday season approaches, new carpeting can provide the perfect backdrop for your festive décor. Imagine a plush, soft carpet in a rich, warm color that complements your holiday decorations and creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, new carpet can make your space feel more comfortable and welcoming.

Create a Sleek Look with Tile Flooring

Tile flooring is another excellent choice, particularly if you’re aiming for a modern and sophisticated look in your home. Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, tile can be used to create everything from classic designs to bold, contemporary statements.

Tile is particularly well-suited for areas that need to handle moisture and heavy foot traffic, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. It’s easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for the holiday season when your home sees more activity. Additionally, tile’s durability ensures that it will continue to look great year after year, even in the busiest areas of your home.

One of the standout features of tile flooring is its ability to mimic the look of other materials, such as wood, stone, or even concrete. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of natural materials without the associated maintenance or cost. For example, wood-look tile offers the warmth and beauty of hardwood with the added benefits of water resistance and durability, making it a great choice for bathrooms or kitchens.

During the holiday season, tile flooring provides a practical and stylish foundation for your décor. Its easy-to-clean surface means that spills, messes, and muddy footprints can be quickly wiped away, leaving your floors looking pristine. Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, tile flooring offers the durability and elegance needed to create a welcoming environment.

Enjoy the Versatility of Luxury Vinyl Plank

For homeowners who love the look of hardwood but need something more resilient, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) offers the perfect solution. LVP replicates the appearance of natural wood, but it’s more durable and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

One of the biggest advantages of LVP is its durability. Unlike hardwood, which can be prone to scratches and dents, LVP is designed to withstand heavy use without showing signs of wear. This makes it an ideal choice for households with children, pets, or frequent guests. Additionally, LVP is water-resistant, making it a great option for areas that are prone to spills or moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

LVP is also softer underfoot compared to hardwood, providing added comfort in areas where you spend a lot of time standing. This makes it a popular choice for kitchens, where homeowners often spend long periods cooking and preparing meals. The cushioned surface of LVP can help reduce fatigue and make standing for long periods more comfortable.

In terms of aesthetics, LVP offers a wide variety of styles and finishes that can mimic the look of natural wood, stone, or tile. This allows homeowners to achieve the look they desire without sacrificing durability or ease of maintenance. Whether you prefer the classic look of oak or the sleek, modern appearance of gray-washed wood, there is an LVP option to suit your style.

During the holiday season, LVP’s low-maintenance qualities can be a lifesaver. With all the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, the last thing you want to worry about is maintaining your floors. LVP’s easy-to-clean surface means that spills, messes, and even pet accidents can be quickly wiped away, leaving your floors looking clean and fresh. This makes LVP a practical choice for busy households that want to enjoy the holidays without the added stress of floor maintenance.

Add Timeless Beauty with Hardwood Floors

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your home, hardwood floors are a classic choice that never goes out of style. Hardwood brings a natural beauty to any space and can be a stunning focal point, especially during the holiday season. Whether you prefer a rich, dark finish or a lighter, more contemporary look, hardwood floors can be customized to suit your personal taste.

Hardwood flooring is known for its durability and long-lasting appeal. With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, making them a wise investment in your home’s value. Unlike carpet, which may need to be replaced every few years, hardwood floors can withstand the test of time, developing a patina that adds to their charm and character.

One of the standout features of hardwood flooring is its ability to enhance the overall aesthetic of a room. The natural grain and variation in wood add depth and character to a space, making hardwood a focal point in any room. Whether you choose a classic oak or a more exotic species like Brazilian cherry, hardwood floors bring a sense of luxury and sophistication to your home.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, hardwood is also easy to clean and maintain—an important consideration during the busy holiday season. Spills and messes can be quickly wiped away, leaving your floors looking pristine. This makes hardwood a practical choice for high-traffic areas where holiday gatherings may take place.

Another advantage of hardwood flooring is its ability to improve indoor air quality. Unlike carpet, which can trap dust, allergens, and other particles, hardwood floors are hypoallergenic and easy to keep clean. This makes them an ideal choice for households with allergy sufferers or anyone looking to create a healthier living environment.

When it comes to the holiday season, hardwood floors provide a stunning canvas for your décor. Whether you’re decorating with traditional holiday colors or opting for a more modern, minimalist approach, hardwood floors will enhance the beauty of your space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Imagine the glow of holiday lights reflecting off the rich tones of your hardwood floors, creating a festive ambiance that is both elegant and welcoming.

Set the Stage for the Holidays with New Flooring

There’s no better time to upgrade your floors than the fall, just before the holiday season begins. New flooring can dramatically improve the look and feel of your home, creating a welcoming environment for guests and a cozy retreat for your family. Whether you choose carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, or tile, each option offers unique benefits that will enhance your home’s beauty and functionality.

With the hustle and bustle of summer behind you and the kids back in school, now is the perfect time to focus on your home. Upgrading your floors before the holidays ensures that your home is ready for all the celebrations to come, providing a beautiful backdrop for making memories with family and friends.

Replacing the flooring in your home is a significant investment, one that can transform the look and feel of your living space while also increasing your home’s value. Whether you’re updating a single room or planning a whole-house renovation, choosing the right flooring and understanding the installation process are crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to consider before replacing your flooring, with a special recommendation to use Carpets N More for your flooring needs.

1. Assess Your Needs and Lifestyle

Before diving into the various flooring options, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs and lifestyle. Ask yourself:

• Do you have kids or pets?
• Is the area prone to high traffic or moisture?
• What are your aesthetic preferences?

For instance, families with young children or pets might prioritize durability and stain resistance, whereas a single professional might focus more on style and luxury. Carpets N More offers a wide range of flooring options that cater to different lifestyles, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your home.

2. Understand Different Flooring Types

Each type of flooring comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a brief overview:

• Hardwood: Timeless and elegant, hardwood floors can add warmth and character to any room. They are durable but can be susceptible to scratches and water damage. Carpets N More provides high-quality hardwood options and expert advice on maintenance.
• Laminate: A budget-friendly alternative to hardwood, laminate flooring is easy to install and maintain. It mimics the look of wood or stone but is more resistant to wear and tear. Carpets N More offers a variety of laminate styles that can suit any decor.
• Vinyl: Known for its durability and water resistance, vinyl flooring is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. It’s available in many designs, including those that imitate wood or tile. Carpets N More has an extensive selection of vinyl flooring to choose from.
• Carpet: Offering comfort and insulation, carpet is perfect for bedrooms and living areas. It’s available in numerous textures and colors, providing endless design possibilities. Carpets N More specializes in high-quality carpets that combine style with functionality.
• Tile: Ideal for areas exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, tile flooring is durable and easy to clean. Carpets N More carries a wide range of ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles.

3. Budget Considerations

Budget is a critical factor in any home improvement project. Flooring costs can vary widely depending on the material and the size of the area. Here are some costs to consider:

• Material Costs: Prices for flooring materials can range from affordable options like laminate and vinyl to more expensive choices like hardwood and tile. Carpets N More offers competitive pricing and often has promotions to help you stay within your budget.
• Installation Costs: Professional installation ensures that your flooring is installed correctly and lasts longer. While it’s an added expense, the expertise of Carpets N More’s installers can save you money on potential repairs down the line.
• Maintenance and Durability: Consider the long-term maintenance costs. For instance, while carpet might require regular cleaning, hardwood might need refinishing over time. Carpets N More can guide you on the expected maintenance for each type of flooring.

4. Evaluate the Subfloor

The condition of your subfloor can impact the type of flooring you choose and the installation process. Before replacing your flooring, it’s essential to allow us to:

• Inspect for any damage or unevenness.
• Ensure it’s clean and dry.
• Repair or replace the subfloor if necessary.

Our professional team can assess your subfloor’s condition and recommend the best course of action, ensuring a smooth installation process.

5. Consider the Room’s Function

Different rooms in your home have different flooring needs. Here are some considerations for each space:

• Living Room and Bedrooms: Comfort and aesthetics are key. Carpet or hardwood might be ideal choices. Carpets N More offers luxurious options that enhance the coziness of these spaces.
• Kitchen and Bathroom: These areas require water-resistant and easy-to-clean flooring. Vinyl or tile are excellent options. Carpets N More has a variety of durable and stylish choices for these high-moisture areas.

6. Aesthetic and Style Preferences

Your flooring choice significantly impacts your home’s overall aesthetic. Here are some tips:

• Color and Finish: Lighter floors can make a room feel larger and airier, while darker floors add warmth and sophistication. We haves a broad range of colors and finishes to match your style.
• Pattern and Texture: Consider the visual interest that patterns and textures can add. From the smooth finish of hardwood to the plush feel of carpet, We offer options that can enhance your decor.
• Consistency: For a cohesive look, you might want to use the same flooring throughout your home. Alternatively, different flooring can define different areas. Our experts can help you plan a layout that complements your home’s design.

7. Environmental Impact

If sustainability is a priority for you, consider eco-friendly flooring options. Carpets N More offers a variety of environmentally friendly products, including:

• Recycled Materials: Flooring made from recycled content, such as carpet tiles.
• Low-VOC Products: Options with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to improve indoor air quality.

8. Warranty and Quality Assurance

Ensure that your new flooring comes with a good warranty. This protects you against defects and guarantees the longevity of your investment. We offer robust warranties on products and services, giving you peace of mind.

9. Professional Installation

While DIY flooring installation might seem like a cost-saving measure, professional installation ensures the best results. Carpets N More employs experienced installers who:

• Have the right tools and expertise.
• Can handle unexpected challenges.
• Ensure that the flooring is installed correctly and efficiently.

10. Post-Installation Care

After your new flooring is installed, proper care and maintenance are crucial for longevity. Carpets N More provides detailed care instructions and maintenance tips tailored to each type of flooring. This includes:

• Regular cleaning routines.
• Tips for avoiding damage.
• Advice on handling spills and stains.

Replacing the flooring in your home is a substantial undertaking that requires careful consideration of various factors. From assessing your lifestyle needs and budget to choosing the right materials and ensuring professional installation, every step is crucial to achieving the desired outcome.

By partnering with Carpets N More, you gain access to a wide range of high-quality flooring options and the expertise of seasoned professionals. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and quality assurance makes them the ideal choice for your flooring replacement project. Whether you’re looking for the timeless elegance of hardwood, the durability of vinyl, or the comfort of carpet, Carpets N More has the perfect solution for your home.

So, before you embark on your flooring replacement journey, reach out to us. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions and achieve the beautiful, functional flooring you’ve always dreamed of. Did you know? We also can provide you with countertops, cabinets, window coverings and more!

Summer is an ideal time to embark on interior renovation projects. With longer daylight hours and a more relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect season to update and refresh your home’s interior. Whether you’re looking to enhance your living space’s functionality, modernize your decor, or simply make your home more comfortable, there are numerous summer renovation projects to consider. Here are some exciting ideas to inspire your interior summer renovations.

1. Revamp Your Living Room

Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to transform your living room is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. If you love the feeling of summer in your home year round, choose light, airy colors to brighten the space and make it feel more open. Summer hues like soft blues, greens, or warm neutrals can bring a refreshing change to your living room.

Update Furniture

Consider updating your furniture to give your living room a new look. Invest in a new sofa, add a stylish coffee table, or incorporate comfortable chairs. Opt for furniture pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the room’s overall appeal.

Add New Lighting

Lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of a room. Replace outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options. Consider adding floor lamps, table lamps, or even installing dimmer switches to control the mood of the room. Natural light is also a great asset, so make sure your windows are clean and unobstructed.

2. Modernize Your Kitchen

Cabinet Update

If your kitchen cabinets are looking tired, consider replacing them. Cabinetry is a very important decision in the building or remodeling process. If you haven’t shopped for cabinets lately it can be very overwhelming with all of the design and finish options available since you typically don’t plan to replace your cabinets! We have taken the guesswork out of giving you the basics you need to know before shopping. Cabinets are so important because they keep you organized and they are a major design element in a room. With today’s technology, there are endless finish options and organizational options giving you the opportunity to get a product that fits your style and personality exactly- budget permitting, of course.

Upgrade Appliances

Summer is a great time to upgrade your kitchen appliances. Energy-efficient appliances not only look sleek and modern but can also help reduce your energy bills. Stainless steel appliances are a popular choice for a contemporary look.

Install a New Backsplash

A new backsplash can add a pop of color and texture to your kitchen. Choose tiles or stone that match your kitchen’s decor and are easy to clean. A stylish backsplash can become a focal point and enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Browse our tile catalog for inspiration.

3. Refresh Your Bathroom

Replace Fixtures

Upgrading your bathroom fixtures can have a big impact. Consider replacing old faucets, showerheads, and towel bars with modern, water-efficient options. This not only improves the look of your bathroom but also enhances its functionality.

New Flooring

If your bathroom floor is outdated or showing signs of wear, summer is a great time to replace it. Choose durable, water-resistant materials like tile, stone or luxury vinyl. These options are available in various styles and can transform the look of your bathroom. Get started by checking out our flooring products on our website.

Add Storage Solutions

Clutter can make even the nicest bathroom feel cramped. Add storage solutions like shelves, cabinets, or vanity upgrades to keep everything organized. Stylish storage options can also serve as decor elements, enhancing the overall look of the room.

4. Transform Your Bedroom

Update Bedding and Curtains

Refreshing your bedding and curtains can instantly transform your bedroom. Choose light, breathable fabrics for summer and opt for colors and patterns that bring a sense of calm and relaxation. New curtains can also help control the amount of natural light entering the room.

Create a Feature Wall

A feature wall can add a focal point to your bedroom. Use wallpaper, paint, or even wood paneling to create a unique and stylish accent wall. This simple change can make a big impact on the overall design of the room.

Improve Closet Organization

A well-organized closet can make your bedroom feel more spacious and functional. Invest in closet organizers, shelves, and storage bins to keep everything in its place. A tidy closet can also make your daily routine more efficient. Your laundry room is another great place to organize as well.

5. Upgrade Your Home Office

Ergonomic Furniture

If you work from home, upgrading your office with ergonomic furniture is essential. Invest in a comfortable chair, a spacious desk, and accessories like a monitor stand or keyboard tray. Ergonomic furniture can improve your productivity and overall well-being.

Decorate with Plants

Adding plants to your home office can create a more pleasant and productive environment. Plants improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your workspace. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or spider plants for easy care.

Enhance Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for a home office. Ensure you have a good mix of natural and artificial light. Task lighting, like a desk lamp, can help reduce eye strain and improve focus. Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light during the day.

Summer is the perfect time to focus on interior renovation projects that can transform your home. Whether you’re updating your living room, modernizing your kitchen, refreshing your bathroom, transforming your bedroom, or upgrading your home office, these projects can enhance the beauty, functionality, and comfort of your living space. By taking advantage of the longer days and warmer weather, you can make significant improvements that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Happy renovating!

We’re not talking the emotional blues when we say bedroom blues. Blue in the bedroom is a beautiful color that creates a soothing and relaxing space. Blue is typically used for boys’ rooms, but this doesn’t mean it has to be a masculine only color. The range of blue colors means that there is probably a blue out there that will work for your home decor.

This Mediterranean style bedroom uses blue accents to bring a pop of color to an otherwise neutral space. Neutral walls and link hardwood or luxury vinyl plank floor create a cool feeling in the room. Adding in rich blue accents in the throw on the bed and the curtains add a bit of energy to the room.  The energy isn’t the same as if the accents were red or orange. The cool tones of the blue color are typically thought to be more soothing than jarring.

Blue color on the walls would create bigger pops of color in this space, but it would take away from the soothing overall tone. Larger expanses of color, no matter what color, will have a bigger impact on the feeling and energy of a room. Keeping the blue accents in this room to two relatively small elements keeps the room feeling neutral.  Layering different shades of blues can also work to create a more sophisticated color palette. Pale blue on the walls combined with richer accessories could intensify the calming feeling of the color. Lots of white in the room keeps the space from feeling too blue.

You’ve read it here and on other design blogs. You’ve probably heard it on design shows on television and seen it in shelter magazines. ‘Pop of color’ is one of the favorite terms of the design world. A pop of color on a sofa or in a room adds interest for your eye. Like texture, color can change the look and feel of an object or room.

Many people buy the big ticket items like furniture and carpet in a neutral color. Builders use beige so much as a wall and carpet color that we now call it builder’s beige.  It is fine to keep these things neutral in color, but that doesn’t mean the entire room or home must be shades of builder beige.

Pops of color are great in accessories if you have a neutral room.  How much color and where you put it are up to you to decide.  Putting color on an accent wall is a bigger statement than colorful throw pillows.  A colorful area rug will make a bigger impact than a boldly colored vase or bowl on a table.

Be bold and go for combinations of colors that contrast: yellow and teal; lavender and orange; blue and rose.  Adding in groups of colorful accessories will have more impact than a single object. A pop of color can mean that the same color is carried throughout the room from the rug, to the curtains, to objects on a shelf. Pops of color can bring your attention to an architectural detail or piece of furniture.

Now that you’ve taken care of flooring and walls in our last post, it’s time to consider furniture. In an office, the right furniture makes a difference in your comfort, particularly when you spend hours in front of a computer. Basic tools of ergonomics, the science of making sure your workspace works well for you, can help provide some insights as you make your furnishing decisions.

The best place to start is your chair. Try many before deciding. The minimum goals include one that adjusts to allow you to keep your feet flat on the floor when you’re working. Also, make sure that the seat is not too deep.  If you sit back in the chair without having your knees touch the front edge of the seat, the chair seat is too big for you.

When you’re setting up your computer, make sure that both the keyboard and the mouse are the same height as your elbows. Consider a keyboard drawer if your desk is too high. Set your monitor so that the top edge is about eye level. Task lighting should be even, and shouldn’t end up creating a glare on your monitor. 

Don’t forget the rug! Area rugs can take a room full of furniture and bring it together to create the warmth you didn’t even realize you were missing!

The final step is storage. Many offices and residential furniture stores have a good variety of file cabinets and bookshelves that work well from a professional perspective while still looking appealing. Take your time and select only the pieces you need right now. You can always buy more later, and it’s nice to have extra space in an office. All set? OK, now get to work!

Are you ready to convert a room to a home office but not sure where to start? Taking a minute to plan your space allows you to create an environment that combines the best of commercial space and a residential environment. Let’s talk flooring! LVP and laminate floors provide one of the best options for a home office. Top-quality LVP and laminates look much like traditional wood floors, but with the stamina to handle the depredations of wheeled office chairs. If you prefer carpet or hardwood, be sure to pick up a mat for under the chair. Plastic mats can be found at any office supply store or one of the new bamboo mats available in a number of places online. Home office walls give you the opportunity to bring in a color you love that wasn’t a fit with any other space in your home. Sky blue sets a tone of relaxation, or maybe a peach works for you to echo the orange of energy. Use this space on your walls to inspire you or motivate you. Do you need a bulletin board? How about spray painting one in a bright tone that coordinates with your walls? Most office furniture is pretty neutral, so take advantage of this chance to bring in color. Finish up with art that makes you happy. Do you have any photos that remind you of your dreams and goals? Would a landscape draw you in when you need to escape from your work for a moment? How about a reproduction of the work of an artist that you find inspiring? Touches such as these make your office a personal and inviting place to work. Show us your home office photos on our Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/carpetsnmorelv

Interior design is a coordinate plan with clear guidelines in place to help enhance a home’s aesthetics and functionality. Plus, there are hundreds of styles that we can use to help create our space. Many interior design styles have come and went while we see interior design evolve over time, just like fashion and beauty. Some styles have indeed survived the test of time where others come and go. Many bold and contemporary designs seem to be much shorter-lived than safe and neutral designs. Typically, this is because neutrals do not make such bold statements where other colors can be very influential. Yet, when new bold design themes do come about, they usually change the perspective entirely and can revamp the next generation of design.

During the 1980s, Italian designer Ettore Sottsass and his design team created a daring and novel design theme that would break all the rules of the current design times. This design was referred to as Memphis design, which was named due to the famous Bob Dylan song “Stuck in Memphis.”

What Is Memphis Design?

Memphis design is nothing short of abstract. It is probably the easiest design to recognize because of how whimsical and unique it is. During the 1940s, Mid-Century Modern took the forefront of many designs. It revolutionized architecture and home designs throughout the United States. However, having too much of a good thing can soon make it overused. Since Mid-Century Modern was a very minimalistic and neutral color palette, it had constructed rules which help create and make the atmosphere. During the 1980s, Sottsass and his team decided to make something untraditional or “radical, funny, and outrageous” as they put it. They created the rule-breaking, whimsical, pop art, and colorful Memphis design.

The Return of Memphis Design

Likewise, we have seen neutral color themes for the last several years. For instance, many rooms have been painted gray, beige, and white, and as children grew up with this color palette, they began to want more color. However, those children are adults and homeowners today, and we notice that generation X loves their colors. They are adding colors more than ever into their homes and apartments. So, we slowly see the return of rule-breaking colors and patterns to create an artsier and maximalism-styled home.

How to Master This Whimsical Style

The color palette is completely open but thrives off bold, neon, and pastel colors and a lot of them! Many rooms will have more than a dozen bold colors incorporated in their design. Plus, this style has unique and contemporary geometrical shapes to construct furniture and patterns. It also uses a ton of patterns where most designs stick to one or two.

What do you think of this crazy design? Is it refreshing to see colors back into homes, or is this design too much? We would love to get your opinion below in the comment section.

Make a statement in any space with 3D wall art.