Planning to install new carpeting or you want to put a fresh coat of paint on the walls, there are a lot of factors that you’ll want to take into consideration. One critical aspect to think about is the relationship between carpets colors and wall colors. A well-chosen color scheme can significantly impact the overall aesthetics of a room.
Should Carpet Color Be Lighter Or Darker Than Walls?
The carpet and wall color you choose should suit your taste and style preference and should reflect the way you intend to use the space. There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to coordinating carpet and wall colors.
To help you decide whether the carpet should be lighter or darker than the walls, below, we share some insightful tips.
How Carpet Colors Impact Wall Color
While it is true that there isn’t a specific rule of thumb to follow, the most visually pleasing color schemes include those that have some degree of contrast between the floors and walls. To illustrate, darker-colored carpets will work well with lighter-colored walls, while lighter-colored carpets will complement darker-colored walls.
Keep in mind, however, that you should consider the décor of the space, as a whole, and the impact that the colors you choose for the carpeting and walls will have on the overall look and feel of the room. Additionally, it’s worth noting that when professional interior designers select color schemes, they tend to use the flooring as the foundation.
Lighter Carpeting and Darker Walls
Light-colored carpets have distinct advantages when paired with darker walls. This combination can transform a room and make it more inviting.
To Create the Illusion of More Light and Space
When the room’s light level is low, when the space is short on square footage, or if you adore the idea of using deeper colored hues on the walls. Why? A light-colored carpet will help to spread light throughout the room, making it appear bigger, lighter, and airier.
For example, a light gray or beige carpet paired with dark-colored walls, such as royal blue, would help to prevent the space from feeling closed in. The same is true for smaller rooms and for spaces that lack natural light, as lighter carpeting will help to make the space appear larger and airier.
To Create Contrast
If you want to make a bold, contrasting statement, pairing light-colored carpeting with dark walls will certainly do the trick. Matching light floors with dark walls is almost unexpected, and makes an undeniable, eye-catching statement.
To find colors that will work together well, be sure to check out a color wheel and choose opposite colors because, after all, opposites do attract. As an example, a light yellow carpet with dark blue walls will be sure to grab attention and create a one-of-a-kind look.
Darker Carpeting and Lighter Walls
When should you choose dark carpeting and lighter walls? If any of the following apply to you, this combination would be a great choice.
To Create a Cozy Space
A dark carpet with light-colored walls will instantly make any space feel cozier. That’s because the darker colors draw the eyes down and ground the room, while lighter colors on the walls will help to balance the space. Dark beige or even brown carpets with brilliant white walls, for example, will make a room feel warm and cozy.
If you want to create an unexpected, unique look, consider choosing an unusual dark color for your carpets, such as navy blue or deep red, and paint the walls a lighter shade of the same hue. This color pairing will add a touch of intimacy and comfort to the space.
To Deal with Heavy Traffic Zones
In spaces that receive lots of foot traffic, such as an entryway or a family room, dark patterned carpet just makes sense for practical purposes. Darker colors will help to hide debris that will inevitably – no matter how much you try to avoid it – get tracked into the room. Lighter colored walls will help to balance the space. To conceal debris and footfalls, opt for a dark-colored carpet with a bold pattern or print.
Carpet Colors By Room
Choosing carpet colors for different rooms depends on various factors such as the room’s purpose, lighting, existing decor, and personal preference. Here’s a general guide:
-
Living Room/Family Room:
- Neutral carpet colors like beige, cream, or light gray are versatile and create a warm, inviting atmosphere for a living room.
- Earthy tones such as brown or taupe can add coziness and complement wooden furniture.
- For a bold statement, consider deep colors like navy blue or burgundy, but be mindful of the room’s size and lighting as dark colors can make a room feel smaller.
-
Bedroom:
- Soft, calming colors like light blue, lavender, or pale green can promote relaxation and better sleep.
- Neutral tones like light gray or ivory provide a serene backdrop for various decor styles.
- For a luxurious feel, opt for plush carpeting in rich hues such as deep purple or charcoal.
-
Home Office:
- Neutral tones like beige or light gray are conducive to productivity and create a professional ambiance.
- If you want to add warmth, consider warm neutrals like tan or taupe.
- Avoid overly vibrant colors that may distract from work, but subtle accents of color can add interest without being overwhelming.
-
Dining Room:
- Stain-resistant carpets in medium to dark tones are practical choices to conceal spills and stains.
- Consider patterns or textures that can disguise messes and add visual interest.
- Neutral colors like beige or light brown are versatile and can complement various dining furniture styles.
-
Children’s Room/Playroom:
- Stain-resistant and durable materials are essential to withstand spills and heavy foot traffic.
- Vibrant colors like primary hues or playful patterns can stimulate creativity and energy.
- Consider carpet tiles or rugs that can be easily replaced in case of spills or stains.
-
Hallways and Entryways:
- Durable and stain-resistant materials are crucial due to high-traffic areas.
- Neutral colors like gray or beige can hide dirt and complement surrounding rooms.
- Consider darker shades or patterns to camouflage dirt and footprints.
Light Carpet vs. Dark Carpet: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing the right carpet color in relation to your paint choice can significantly impact the aesthetics of your living room. When contemplating between lighter or darker shades, consider the prevailing paint color in your space.
If your walls boast a light paint color, opting for white carpets or other neutral carpet tones can create an airy and open feel. White carpets, especially when paired with light-hued walls, can make the room appear more spacious and harmonious.
On the other hand, if your walls feature deeper or colored paint, exploring neutral carpet or colored options from carpet samples may complement the paint color and add an element of contrast.
Staying informed about current carpet trends can also guide your decision, ensuring your living room maintains a contemporary and appealing look. Ultimately, the key lies in finding a balance and visual cohesion between your carpet and paint color for a cohesive and inviting living ambiance.
Practical Considerations
- Maintenance and cleanliness: Lighter carpets may hide stains and dirt less effectively than darker ones, requiring more frequent cleaning. However, darker carpets might show lint or pet hair more visibly.
- Longevity and trends: While it’s tempting to follow current design trends, opting for timeless colors that withstand shifting fashions ensures your decor remains relevant over time. Balance personal style with practicality to create a space that’s both aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain for years to come.
Expert Tips and Advice
Choosing the perfect carpets colors involves more than just personal preference. Several practical considerations and expert insights can help you make the right decision for your space.
Understand Undertones
Matching undertones between carpets and walls creates a cohesive look. Warm tones like beige or tan pair well with warm-colored walls, while cool tones such as gray or blue complement cooler wall shades. Paying attention to undertones ensures harmony in your design.
Test in Different Lighting Conditions
Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear. Test carpet samples under natural light, artificial light, and shadows to see how they interact with your walls and furniture. This helps avoid surprises once the carpet is installed.
Factor in Room Size and Functionality
Lighter carpets can make a small room feel more spacious, while darker options create a sense of coziness. High-traffic areas like hallways or family rooms benefit from darker, patterned carpets that effectively hide dirt and wear.
Stay Informed About Trends
Keeping an eye on current carpet trends can inspire fresh ideas, but timeless designs are a safer choice for long-term satisfaction. Neutral tones and classic patterns provide flexibility to adapt to changing décor styles.
Balance Aesthetics and Practicality
Consider the practical aspects of carpets colors, such as maintenance and durability. Lighter carpets may show stains more easily, requiring frequent cleaning, while darker carpets may highlight lint or pet hair. Choose materials and colors that suit your lifestyle and the room’s purpose.
Seek Professional Guidance
Interior design professionals or flooring specialists can offer tailored advice based on your home’s unique characteristics. Consulting experts ensures your carpets colors enhance the overall design while meeting your practical needs.
Carpet Land | Flooring Installation in Omaha, Lincoln & Sioux Falls | Best Prices on Carpets, Flooring & More
We make shopping for carpet & flooring in Omaha, Lincoln, and Sioux Falls easy! Take advantage of our FREE estimates and consultations today. Our incredible buying power at Carpet Land allows us to deliver the lowest flooring product prices in town, so shift your focus to finding the perfect flooring for your home. We look forward to working with you. Contact us for your FREE Estimate TODAY.
Click here for Carpet Land Omaha, Lincoln, & Sioux Falls Flooring Buying Guide.