The best ‘neutrals’ in flooring for the season ahead

Neutral know how

When the first chill creeps into the air, interiors take on a whole new significance as we look to cosy up rooms. With floors and walls the two largest surface areas of the home, consider how you can pair timeless neutrals with a new wave of neutral shades, which are anything but dull, suggests writer and stylist Kylie Jackes.

The latest paint trends are soft and easy on the eye. Think walls in beautiful blush pinks with warm undertones, cool sliver accents for a hint of sheen and pale bluey greys which sit well alongside copper tones and moody charcoals. While paint is relatively easy to update and change, it’s hard to beat classic neutral flooring which will complement a range of wall colours and seasonal interior embellishments.

Another decorating tip, if you’re using floorboards in the living area and carpet in the bedroom, is to closely colour match the two, as this will help areas flow seamlessly from one another and create a more spacious feel throughout your home.

Working with cream

If you’ve fallen in love with soft blush for your walls, continue the creamy, slightly golden tinge through to floors with luxurious wool carpet and warm timber tones.

Great combinations include Hycraft Valley Gorge wool carpet in a loop pile for a lovely textural look and feel, paired with Quick-Step Variano Painted White Oak.

Shades of Grey

One of the most popular neutrals both inside and out, the beauty of grey is it complements virtually any other shade, from serene sage through to brash, burnt orange. For a sophisticated tonal look play with the graduating spectrum of greys embellished with silver accents and moody charcoals.

If you prefer lighter greys eco+ Hinterland II Triexta Twist in Cloud Grey teamed with the fine grain structure of Plantino Engineered Oak in Corsican Grey will add depth throughout. 

Darker tones also create wonderful ambience and sophistication in adjoining bedrooms and bathrooms.  For a chic en-suite, consider large format Eclipse Lunar porcelain floor tiles, paired with stunning Wool Loop Temuka – Murchison carpet in River Rock in the bedroom.

If you’re worried a cooler grey palette may seem a little too cold, introduce textural elements which will add layers of personality and warmth. Dress your sofa and bed with chunky throws and oversized cushions, soften floorboards with generous rugs, scatter books across coffee tables and introduce living greenery with a hardy plant in a bold pot.

Warm Coco

Earthy browns and taupes pair well with pale blues and greens to create an organic look inspired by the natural landscape. Chocolate tones also have a wonderful cocooning effect, which is ideal for cosying up a space.

For rustic appeal try Quick-step variano Champagne Brut Oak with its aged edges and cracked knots adding natural character, alongside a durable carpet just a shade lighter. Try eco+ Hinterland II in Falcon. The soft twist pile Triexta is ideal for the whole family, including pets who may want to snuggle up inside.