Carpet Colour Guide: Selecting the Right Shade for Your Space

Selecting a carpet colour is one of the most impactful décor decisions for your home. The floor acts as a canvas for your interior style – the right shade of carpet can make a space feel larger and brighter, cosier and more intimate, or seamlessly pulled together.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing a carpet colour that suits your space and lifestyle. We’ll answer common questions Australian homeowners and designers ask, from “What is the most popular carpet colour?” to “Which carpet goes best with white walls or dark furniture?” By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how to pick a hue that feels just right – all in the friendly, expert voice you expect from Choices Flooring.

What Is the Most Popular Colour for Carpet?

When it comes to carpet, neutrals are by far the most popular colour family. Year after year, shades of grey, beige, taupe and other natural tones top the charts in Australian homes. These understated colours have broad appeal because they create a versatile foundation for any décor style. Grey, in particular, has been a reigning favourite in recent years – interior experts noted in 2023 that “it’s still grey” leading carpet sales, especially in softer “stoney grey” hues. Warm naturals like sandy beige and taupe are close behind, reflecting a trend toward cosier, earthy interiors.

Why are neutral carpets so popular? For one, they go with everything. A neutral-coloured carpet won’t clash with your wall paint, furniture, or artwork, even if you change styles over time. Designers often call grey “a great safe bet” because it pairs with virtually any colour scheme. Neutral carpets also create an open, airy feel and let other design elements (like a gorgeous sofa or bold art) take centre stage. And practically speaking, mid-tone neutrals are forgiving – they tend to mask minor dirt or lint better than pure white carpets, and they don’t show every bit of dust.

That’s not to say you’re limited to bland tones. Popular carpet colours evolve with design trends. Lately, we’re seeing more adventurous choices making their way into Aussie homes. Deep charcoals and navy blues have gained favour as dramatic neutrals. Nature-inspired greens and teal blues are popping up in carpet catalogues, reflecting the broader trend of bringing the outdoors in. Even rich shades like terracotta and dusty pink are appearing as statement carpet colours in stylish homes. Still, the majority of homeowners stick to timeless neutrals for their big flooring investment, adding brighter colours in easily changeable accents like rugs or cushions.

Timeless doesn’t mean boring – a neutral carpet in quality wool or nylon can feature subtle texture or flecks of colour that add plenty of character while remaining classic.

How Do I Choose a Carpet Colour?

Choosing a carpet colour can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. The key is to balance style, practicality, and personal comfort. Here are some expert tips and factors to consider when selecting your carpet hue:

1. Start with What You Have: A smart first step is to look at the fixed elements of your room – things like your sofa, dining table, or cabinetry that won’t be changing. As one design rule of thumb suggests, begin with the most limited element (often your furniture upholstery) and choose a carpet colour that complements it, then do wall colours last, since paint has unlimited options. For example, if your living room couch is a bold navy blue, a carpet in a neutral grey or cream will harmonise nicely, allowing the sofa to stand out. On the other hand, if you have a patterned or colourful armchair you love, echo one of its subtle tones in your carpet for a pulled-together look.

2. Consider the Mood and Style: Think about the atmosphere you want to create. Colours strongly affect mood – do you want your space to feel calm and expansive, or warm and intimate? Light, cool colours (like pale greys, icy blues, soft greens) tend to make a room feel open and serene, while darker or warmer colours (like chocolate brown, burgundy or deep taupe) bring a cosy, inviting feel. For a family home where comfort is key, earthy neutrals or gentle blues/greens can create a soothing backdrop. In a luxury formal lounge, you might opt for a dramatic dark carpet to add elegance. Just be careful with extremely bold or bright carpet colours if you plan to live with them long-term – a neon turquoise carpet might thrill you now, but neutral backdrops generally have more staying power and flexibility as trends change.

3. Light and Space: Assess your room’s size and lighting when picking carpet colours. A general design principle is that lighter carpets can make a small room appear larger, as they reflect more light and create an airy continuous floor effect. So if you’re choosing carpet for a cosy bedroom or a low-light hallway, a soft beige, light grey or creamy off-white carpet could visually open it up. Conversely, darker carpets add intimacy – a rich charcoal or espresso brown carpet can make a large living room or open-plan space feel a bit more defined and snug (though too-dark floors in a tiny room might feel enclosing). Pay attention to natural light: north-facing rooms in Australia get cooler light, so a warmer carpet colour (with red or yellow undertones) can compensate, whereas sun-filled north-facing rooms might benefit from cooler colour tones that don’t overheat the look. Always test samples in your actual room at different times of day – the way a colour looks under the showroom fluorescents versus your home’s lighting can differ greatly.

4. Lifestyle Practicality: The best colour for your carpet also depends on how you use the space. Do you have kids, pets, or lots of foot traffic? If so, very light colours (like pure white or ivory) might not be the most maintenance-friendly choice, as they’ll show muddy footprints and spills more readily. On the flip side, very dark colours (think black or midnight blue) can hide stains but will reveal every bit of lint, dust, or pet hair and might require more vacuuming. Many busy families find that mid-tone colours and multi-tonal or patterned carpets are the sweet spot – a medium grey-taupe or a heathered brown carpet will camouflage everyday dirt and crumbs much better than a stark solid colour. In fact, carpets with subtle flecks or a textured pattern are amazingly good at hiding stains and wear. If stain-hiding is a priority, also consider fibre type: solution-dyed nylon and triexta carpets come in a range of colours and are engineered to resist staining (and even UV fading in sunlight) better than some natural fibres. You can enjoy a lighter-coloured carpet in a high-traffic area if you choose a fibre like triexta that lets you easily clean spills before they set.

5. Trends vs. Timeless: Ask yourself how often you plan to change your carpet. Carpeting is typically a long-term investment (people often keep the same carpet for 8-15 years or more), so it’s wise to pick a colour you’ll be comfortable living with for the long haul. Neutral and earth-toned carpets never really go out of style – a quality wool loop in a warm grey or a plush cut-pile in fawn beige will look just as elegant a decade from now, whereas that trendy bold pattern might feel dated when the fashion inevitably shifts. If you love following trends, a good compromise is to choose a classic neutral carpet and then layer on trendier colours with inexpensive accents. For instance, you could install a timeless sandy-coloured carpet and then add a bright patterned rug or colourful cushions that you swap out when styles change. This way, your carpet remains a flexible foundation. Of course, if your heart is set on a statement carpet colour (maybe a luxurious teal or a dramatic red), go for it! Life’s too short for boring floors – just make sure the quality and fibre are up to the task so that bold colour doesn’t fade or wear out quickly.

Style Tip - Still feeling unsure? Visit a showroom and grab sample swatches of a few carpet colours you’re considering. Lay them out in your room next to your sofa, walls and curtains. See how each shade looks in the morning sun and under evening lamplight. Often, you’ll find one colour suddenly “clicks” with your space. And if you need guidance, Choices Flooring’s experts are always happy to help you mix and match colours until you find the perfect hue.

What Colour Carpet Goes with White Walls?

White walls create a blank canvas, allowing you to pair them with almost any carpet colour – from warm neutrals to bold statement hues.

White (or light neutral) walls are extremely popular in modern Australian interiors, and for good reason. They make spaces feel bright and clean, and they go with every carpet colour imaginable. If you have white walls, you have the freedom to decide whether you want your carpet to quietly complement the airy look or to provide a striking contrast. Here are a few approaches:

• Tone-on-Tone Neutrals: For a serene, cohesive look, many designers and homeowners choose neutral carpets when the walls are white. A soft grey carpet with white walls creates a chic monochromatic palette that’s easy to decorate around. A light oatmeal beige carpet will add a touch of warmth against white walls, keeping the room feeling sunny but not sterile. The beauty of white walls + neutral carpet is that you can introduce any accent colour in furniture or art later. It’s an ideal base if you like to redecorate often, since grey, taupe or cream carpet won’t pigeonhole your style. As an example, grey has long been a safe choice with white walls or any neutral wall, precisely because it “goes with pretty much any colour scheme” without demanding attention.

• High Contrast Drama: If you want to showcase the floors or add depth, pairing white walls with a darker carpet can be stunning. The light-dark contrast will draw the eye downward to the floor, anchoring the space. Think elegant combinations like white walls with a charcoal grey or chocolate brown carpet – it can make a living room feel very upscale yet cosy. Deep colours on the floor also work well if you have expansive windows or ample light, as the contrast won’t overwhelm the space. A navy blue carpet against crisp white walls, for example, creates a classic, nautical-inspired look. Even black carpet can be ultra-chic in a white-walled room if used in a formal space (though black shows lint, so be prepared for upkeep). For a pop of personality, some adventurous decorators are even introducing rich colour carpets with white walls – imagine white walls with a luxurious red carpet in a hallway or media room. It’s bold, but as one expert notes, a vibrant red carpet paired with neutral walls can create a real “wow factor” and a statement welcome. The key with any strong carpet colour is to keep the walls and larger furnishings fairly neutral so the look remains balanced, which, if you have white walls, you’ve already nailed!

• Pattern and Texture: White walls also allow you to play with patterned or textured carpets. A subtly patterned carpet (like a faint geometric or stripe) in neutral colours can add interest so the room doesn’t feel too plain, while still maintaining an overall light vibe. For instance, a wide check pattern carpet in shades of grey and white could visually expand the room (a wider design can create an illusion of more space). On the other hand, a narrow striped or busy pattern carpet will make a large white-walled room feel cosier by adding visual “activity” on the floor. Patterns in soft tones won’t clash with white walls but will hide dirt and add character. Textured carpets – such as a looped wool with natural flecks or a cut-pile with a sculpted design – also stand out nicely against white walls, giving a room that designer touch without needing bold colour.

Pro Insight: When matching carpet to white walls, pay attention to the undertone of your whites. Is your wall paint a cool, blue-tinged white or a warm creamy white? Try to pick a carpet colour that complements that undertone. For example, a warm off-white wall looks beautiful with a carpet in a warm grey or beige (with yellow or red undertones), whereas a cool, stark white wall might pair better with a cooler-toned carpet like a silvery grey or a blue-tinted beige. This way, the colours will harmonise subtly. And don’t forget the lighting – white walls reflect coloured light, so if your carpet is bright red, it may cast a slight glow on the walls. Test the combo in natural light to be sure you love it.

What Carpet Colours Complement Darker Furniture?

A light neutral carpet provides an elegant contrast to dark wood furniture in this home office, preventing the space from feeling too heavy.

If you have a lot of dark furniture – such as a mahogany dining set, a chocolate-brown leather sofa, or a collection of black wood accent pieces – choosing the right carpet colour is essential to balance the room. Dark furniture can make a space feel rich and grounded, but if you also choose a very dark carpet and dark walls, the room might end up feeling like a cave. Here are tips for carpet colours that work well with darker furnishings:

• Light and Neutral for Contrast: One foolproof approach is to go lighter on the floor when your furniture is dark. A light carpet in a neutral shade (cream, ivory, soft beige, light grey) will contrast with dark couches or tables, letting those pieces stand out without competing. The lighter floor also lifts the overall brightness of the room, so your beautiful espresso-brown sofa doesn’t get lost against a dark floor. In the image above, for instance, a pale beige carpet offsets the dark wood desk and chair, creating visual balance. Likewise, a taupe or greige carpet can tone down the heaviness of, say, a deep walnut bedroom suite, making the room feel more open and inviting. Neutral carpets are versatile next to dark wood or upholstery – they bridge all the other colours in the space. Beige on the floor with chocolate sofas and perhaps white walls can create a very warm, classic look. Light grey carpet with black furniture gives a modern, contrasting style. These combos ensure your furniture remains the focal point, framed by a lighter backdrop underfoot.

• Medium Tones and Colour Harmony: Another option is to pick up a mid-tone colour that ties together your dark furniture with other elements. For example, if your dining chairs are navy blue velvet, a carpet with a tweedy mix of blues and neutrals could echo that without being as dark as the chairs. If you have dark green armchairs, a caramel-toned carpet can be a perfect companion – designers note that “dark green armchairs on a caramel rug” is actually one of the most fashionable combinations right now, as it blends deep colour with warm contrast. You can also consider patterned carpets that incorporate a bit of the furniture colour on a lighter background. A rug with subtle black geometric lines on a beige field, for instance, can connect to black furniture pieces in the room. The idea is to find a carpet shade that neither merges completely with the furniture (avoiding the all-dark-everywhere issue) nor clashes. Often, a mix of tones or a moderate hue works well, like a rusty tan carpet that complements a dark leather couch, or a slate blue carpet that pairs with white walls and dark wood coffee tables, pulling in a hint of the furniture tone.

• Dark on Dark – Bold and Cosy: Can you use a dark carpet with dark furniture? Absolutely – it can create a dramatic, cosy enclave, but it takes a bit more care. If you go this route, try to introduce contrast in other ways. For instance, in a study with dark timber bookshelves and a deep burgundy carpet, keep the walls light or add a light-colored rug under the coffee table to break up the expanse of darkness. Use metallic or light accents (like brass lamps, a white throw blanket on a dark sofa, etc.) to lift the scheme. Also, be aware that dark-on-dark will visually shrink the space, so it works best in larger rooms or those with ample natural light. One benefit of a dark carpet is it hides stains and dirt well, which busy households appreciate – just remember you might see lint or pet hair more, especially if it contrasts (e.g., white cat on a black carpet!). If you love the idea of an intimate lounge with moody colours, you could choose a deep tone from your furniture itself – for example, a burgundy carpet to match wine-red curtains and a dark sofa – for a rich, layered look. Just be sure you love the colour enough to live with so much of it, and consider the long-term (neutrals are easier to resell or redecorate around if your style changes).

Style Tip: With darker furniture, a rug or carpet that has multiple shades (like a subtle pattern or variegated colour) can be very forgiving and designer-friendly. For instance, a Persian-style area rug in navy, burgundy and cream placed over a plain carpet can tie together a dark leather couch and light walls by incorporating both light and dark in the pattern. Don’t hesitate to layer rugs on broadloom carpet for added texture and to introduce more colours – it’s a trick designers use to integrate furniture and flooring palettes seamlessly.

How Does Carpet Colour Affect the Perception of Room Size?

It’s amazing how much colour can influence our sense of space. Carpet, being a large surface area, plays a big role in how big (or small) a room feels. The general guideline is that lighter carpet colours make a room feel more spacious, while darker or heavily patterned carpets can make a room feel a bit more enclosed. Light colours (like whites, creams, soft greys) reflect more light, so they visually expand the floor area and create an unbroken plane that can trick the eye into seeing a room as larger and more open.

If you have a compact bedroom or a narrow hallway, installing a pale or neutral carpet can brighten it up and give an airy impression – the light floor seems to push the walls further apart. Designers often use this trick in model homes: pale carpet + light walls = a sense of a bigger room than the dimensions actually are.

On the other hand, dark carpet colours absorb light and create contrast edges at the walls, which can make a room feel cosy but sometimes smaller. A rich cocoa-brown or charcoal carpet in a small room will definitely up the snug factor, which might be desirable for a media room or den, but you might not want that effect in a tiny spare bedroom you’re trying to make look larger.

Likewise, patterned carpets with lots of variation can visually break up the floor and draw the eye downward, sometimes making the room feel busier and thus a bit more enclosed. However, the effect of pattern also depends on scale: a broad, large-scale pattern (like a big check or wide stripe) can actually stretch a room’s perceived width or length, whereas a small, tight pattern might make a space feel a bit cluttered or smaller. It’s all about visual continuity – the more the floor can read as one continuous surface, the bigger the room looks.

If your goal is to maximise the sense of space, lean toward carpets in light neutral tones, perhaps with minimal texture. You can even consider a colour similar to your wall colour (like a soft grey carpet with light grey walls) so the boundary between wall and floor blurs – this monochromatic approach is very effective in making a room feel expansive.

Conversely, if you have a very large space that feels too open and cold, a darker or warmer coloured carpet can cosy it up and make it more intimate. For example, a sprawling open-plan living area might feel more inviting with a mid-tone earthy carpet that creates distinct zones, as opposed to an expanse of white flooring. And remember, area rugs can also be used to manipulate space perception: a contrasting rug on a carpet can delineate an area and make a big room feel more human-scaled, or a light-colored rug on a dark carpet can brighten a corner.

In summary, use light carpet colours to visually enlarge space, and dark or bold carpets to add warmth and intimacy. There’s no strict rule – if you have your heart set on a dark coloured carpet in a small room, you can offset it with lighter walls and lots of lighting to avoid a cramped feel. It’s all about the balance.

What Carpet Colours Hide Dirt and Stains Best?

Life happens on our floors – from the pitter-patter of kids and pets to the occasional wine spill. Choosing a carpet colour that helps mask dirt and stains can be a smart move, especially for high-traffic areas like hallways or family rooms. So, which colours are the most forgiving?

Mid-tone colours and mixed hues are your friends. A carpet that is neither very light nor very dark will typically show the least amount of dirt day-to-day. Why? Light carpets (think white, cream, very light beige) tend to highlight any dark dirt or spill – even a bit of dust or a coffee drip is glaringly obvious on a white plush carpet. On the other extreme, dark carpets (think solid black, deep navy, chocolate brown) may hide muddy footprints or dark stains well, but they will reveal lighter debris like dust, lint, and pet hair (if you have a golden retriever, their fur will be highly visible on a navy carpet!). The sweet spot is a medium shade: for instance, a heathered medium-grey or a taupe carpet can disguise a lot. These colours are naturally similar to dust or sand, so bits of dirt don’t jump out visually.

Even better can be a carpet with a flecked or textured pattern. Many carpet ranges offer a multi-tonal fibre mix – for example, a neutral beige carpet with tiny flecks of tan and grey through it. These subtle variations do wonders for camouflaging specks of dirt or stray crumbs because the eye isn’t drawn to any one spot. It’s the same principle as a salt-and-pepper fabric or tweed – it naturally hides imperfections. In fact, patterned carpets (like a low-contrast pattern) “can hide dirt, stains, and signs of wear better than solid-colored carpets”. So if you’re concerned about stains, you might consider a forgiving pattern such as a marled cut pile, a small lattice design, or even a Berber-style loop with multi-coloured yarns.

Colour-wise, earthy tones are champion at concealing dirt. Think shades like brown, tan, grey, or dull green – colours that naturally occur in soil and dust. A muddied shoe print will blend much easier into a brown mottled carpet than, say, a sky blue carpet. Likewise, multicoloured rugs with reds, blues, and browns (Persian rug styles) are famously good at hiding stains – that’s why they’ve been used in busy living rooms and halls for centuries.

If stain-hiding is top priority, also remember to choose a carpet fibre that resists stains. Solution-dyed nylon and triexta (SmartStrand) carpets, for example, are engineered to be stain-resistant on a molecular level – many spills can be cleaned up with just water, even on light colours. This means you could enjoy a lighter carpet without worrying that the first spill will ruin it. Still, from a purely visual standpoint, mid-tone neutrals are the easiest to keep looking clean between vacuuming and deep cleans. It’s quite liberating not to cringe every time someone enters with shoes on or the dog has a little accident, because your carpet’s colour and pattern are working to forgive those little messes until you can clean up.

Pro Insight: No carpet colour is magic – you’ll eventually see dirt if enough builds up. So regular maintenance is key. But you can stretch the time between deep cleans by choosing a carpet colour that aligns with the type of dirt you expect. For instance, in a rural Aussie home with red clay-like soil outside, a reddish-brown toned carpet will hide that type of dust better than a white carpet would. In a beachside home with light sand, a carpet in a sandy beige makes sense. Also, entrance mats and enforcing a no-shoes policy can help keep your carpet colour looking its best, no matter what shade you choose!

Can Carpet Colour Fade, and How Do You Prevent It?

After investing in the perfect carpet colour, the last thing you want is for it to lose its vibrancy. Unfortunately, carpet colour can fade over time, especially when exposed to strong sunlight. Many parts of Australia get abundant UV rays, and UV light is a major culprit in fading fabrics and carpets. You might notice over the years that the carpet by a sunny window or in your sunroom looks lighter or less vibrant than the carpet in a shaded corner – that’s fading at work.

The good news is, not all carpets fade equally, and there are steps to prevent or minimise fading. Here are some key points:

• Fibre and Dye Matter: The type of fibre and how the colour is applied play big roles in fade resistance. Solution-dyed carpets (common in nylon, triexta, and polypropylene) have colour infused throughout the fibre like a carrot, rather than just on the surface like a radish. These solution-dyed fibres are inherently more resistant to UV fading – the colour is part of their DNA. So if fading worries you, ask for solution-dyed products. In fact, industry professionals note that solution-dyed carpets, regardless of colour, offer superior fade resistance to sunlight. Wool carpets, on the other hand, have natural dyes that can fade over time with the sun, although wool tends to fade in a more subtle, even way (and wool is naturally opaque, which gives it decent UV resistance but not immunity). Also, darker and brighter colours tend to show fading more clearly than lighter ones. A midnight blue carpet might slowly lighten to a denim blue in very sunny spots, whereas a light beige carpet’s fading might be barely noticeable because it was light to begin with. As one flooring expert put it, “lighter-colored carpets generally show less noticeable fading than darker ones”. So, choosing a slightly lighter tone could be a strategic move if your room is sun-drenched all day.

• Sun-Smart Interior Design: You can significantly prevent fading by controlling sunlight on the carpet. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window films, especially during peak sun hours. Modern transparent window films are great – they let in light but filter out most UV rays that harm floors (some films block over 99% of UV). Also consider the placement of your furniture and rugs: moving furniture around every few months can avoid one patch of carpet taking all the sun day in, day out. Laying area rugs in front of big windows or in hallways can shield the carpet below from direct light (the rugs might fade instead, but they’re replaceable or can be rotated). Even something as simple as keeping sheer curtains drawn in the afternoon can protect your carpet and flooring investment from harsh UV exposure.

• Maintenance and Care: Regular vacuuming and proper cleaning can actually help with fading, indirectly. How so? Dust and soil can be abrasive and, when combined with sunlight and foot traffic, they might accelerate the breakdown of carpet fibres and dyes. Keeping your carpet clean might not stop UV from lightening the colour, but it ensures there isn’t extra damage that makes the fading look worse. Some professional carpet cleaning or protection services offer UV-protective coatings – these are like sunscreen for your carpet, applied after cleaning, which can give additional protection (these typically need reapplication every year or two). If you’re installing new carpet in a sun-exposed room, you can also ask about carpets that come with built-in UV stabilisers. And of course, fade is gradual – you often won’t notice it day to day. But do check under rugs or behind furniture occasionally; if you see a big difference, that’s a sign to amp up your sun protection measures.

In summary, carpet colour can fade from sun exposure, especially intense Aussie sun, but by choosing a fade-resistant fibre and taking some sun-smart precautions (like window films, curtains, and rotation), you can keep your carpet colour looking vibrant for many years. Don’t let fear of fading stop you from choosing the colour you love – just be mindful of protecting that colour once the carpet is in your home.

How Often Do Carpet Colour Trends Change, and What’s Popular Now?

Carpet colour trends tend to evolve more gradually than, say, paint colours or furniture styles. This is largely because carpet is a long-term fixture – people aren’t replacing their carpet with every season’s trend. Instead, broad trends in carpet colour emerge over the years and reflect bigger shifts in interior design preferences. For example, across the 2010s, we saw an explosion of cool grey and slate carpets as the neutral of choice, aligning with the trend of grey everything in home decor. By the early 2020s, that started to shift – design experts noted that the era of all-grey interiors is giving way to a warmer, more inviting palette. Now in 2025, we’re firmly in a transition where warm neutrals and nature-inspired colours are the stars.

Major carpet colour trends change roughly every 5–10 years, but subtle updates happen annually. Manufacturers and designers will introduce new collections in response to consumer tastes. However, unlike the fast-paced fashion industry, carpet trends prioritise longevity. Neutrals remain a constant backbone. As one flooring expert pointed out, neutral carpet colours (beige, grey, taupe, etc.) are “the most popular carpet colours” and are timeless, outlasting the fads. So even as trends change, those staples are always “in”.

That said, let’s talk about what’s popular right now – it’s an exciting mix of tried-and-true and fresh influences:

• Warm, Earthy Neutrals: The biggest shift in current trends is the rise of warm neutrals. Think shades like caramel, honey, amber, terracotta, and sandy brown. Designers predict that colours such as sienna and burnt umber will be popular in carpet in 2025. These hues bring a natural warmth and a bit of nostalgic retro vibe (hello 1970s palette), yet they feel new again when used in modern homes. They pair beautifully with the other trend of green houseplants and natural materials. A warm beige or caramel carpet instantly makes a room feel inviting. In fact, one trend watcher noted we’ll be seeing more “caramel, saffron, sienna, and terracotta” in carpets, often combined with light neutral furniture for a striking look (picture cream-colored sofas on a terracotta carpet – very chic). Australian homes, with our love of indoor-outdoor harmony, are embracing these desert and earth tones that echo our landscapes.

• Greys Evolving to “Greige” and Taupe: Don’t worry, grey isn’t gone – it’s just getting cosier. The cool blue-based greys are warming up a touch. The popular greys now have beige or brown undertones (the so-called “greige”) or lean into taupe territory. This reflects the idea of adding warmth. Stoney grey, as mentioned earlier, is still a top seller but now often with a hint of warmth. We’re also seeing two-tone yarn mixes like grey-beige flecks that create a lovely neutral that isn’t flat. These nuanced neutrals remain big sellers for those who want a contemporary look without going full beige.

• Nature-Inspired Greens and Blues: Globally, there’s a design movement towards biophilic and nature-inspired colours, and carpets are part of it. Green carpets (from soft sage to deep olive) are emerging as a trend for those wanting a statement that’s still somewhat neutral (green can act like a neutral in many cases). In the UK, experts noted an increase in sage greens in carpet as nature continues to inspire interiors. Darker forest greens or teal carpets add a luxurious, calming vibe – think of a plush mossy green carpet in a bedroom, very soothing. Blues are also trending, especially navy and denim blues, which work well with coastal and Hamptons-style decor that’s popular in Australia. We’ve seen moody blue carpets and rugs coming in – designers say deep blues and greens are on the rise and can make a room feel cosy yet stylish. These colours were once mostly seen in rugs, but now even wall-to-wall carpet is available in beautiful jewel tones for brave decorators.

• Bold Colours and Jewel Tones: Alongside the earthy trend, there’s a smaller but fun trend of bold, vibrant carpet colours used as statements. Think aubergine (deep purple), **ruby red, sapphire blue, even pops of sunny yellow or coral in certain contexts. While not mainstream for entire homes, these colours are being used in creative ways – a patterned carpet on a staircase in navy and white stripes, a luxurious red carpet for a Hollywood-glam home theatre, or a bright custom rug in a kid’s playroom. With maximalist decor making a comeback, some homeowners are ditching the rulebook and opting for carpets in unconventional colours to express personality. Still, these are often area rugs or confined to one feature room. The average Aussie lounge room is more likely to be in a nice subtle neutral than bright purple! But it’s interesting to note that globally, “vibrant on-trend colours” are being explored more as consumers become design-savvy – we’re not as afraid of colour as we used to be.

• Patterns and Textured Neutrals: In lieu of wild colours, many are turning to texture and pattern to spice up carpet while keeping colours neutral. Textured carpets in natural tones (like a looped wool in an undyed yarn, or a cut and loop pattern in the same colour) are very popular because they add visual interest without locking you into a strong colour. Think of a heathered grey berber, or a herringbone patterned carpet in two shades of beige – very classy and a bit more special than a plain cut pile. Patterns like plaids and stripes are also trending in carpets and rugs, often in toned-down colours. Interior magazines are showing plaid carpet in home offices or stairs for a tailored look, and striped carpets in hallways for a bit of fun. These patterns are often done in harmonious colours (like charcoal and grey, or navy and cream) so they remain elegant. Essentially, people are becoming braver with using the floor as a design feature – a patterned or coloured carpet can be the star of the room, with walls and furniture more subdued to let the floor shine. Carpet is having a bit of a style renaissance (no longer something to hide), with designers saying it’s “no longer an afterthought – the entire room can be styled working from the floor up.”

So, how often do these trends change? We’d say every year there are new colour trend reports, but core trends stick around for several years. The move to warm tones and natural looks has been building for a while and is likely to dominate the next decade, just as grey did in the last. However, because carpet is such a personal choice, the “in” colours don’t swing wildly year to year. What’s popular now will likely remain popular for a few years to come: you can confidently choose a warm neutral or a soft green knowing it won’t look passé next season. And always remember: your taste beats trends. The best carpet colour for your space is one that you love and that suits how you live. Trends are a great guide and inspiration, but at the end of the day, choose what makes you happy when you walk into the room.

Selecting the right carpet colour is a journey that combines practical considerations with creative expression. It’s about finding that sweet spot where your home’s personality and your everyday needs meet. Whether you opt for the enduring appeal of a neutral wool twist or take a leap with a trend-setting hue in a plush cut pile, your choice of carpet colour will set the tone in your space for years to come. Take your time, view samples in your own home, and imagine how each colour makes you feel when you step through the door.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer – the “best” carpet colour depends on your space’s lighting, your furniture, your lifestyle, and the mood you want to create. Hopefully, this guide has answered your burning questions and sparked some inspiration. And if you’re ever in doubt, the flooring specialists at Choices Flooring are here to help guide you. After all, we’ve been helping Australians find their perfect floors for years – we know a thing or two about colour and style! Here’s to finding the carpet colour that makes your home feel just right, from the ground up.