Floored!

October 2006

As the night's start to draw in we automatically find ourselves retreating more into our homes and begin coveting all things comfortable. And although true home comforts can be found in every aspect of your home one of the places you find most comfort is in that world beneath your feet.

Contrary to popular belief comfortable flooring doesn't necessarily mean carpets. Of course carpets can be incredibly cosy but dependent on your preference woods and even tiles can be equally pleasant.

Twenty years ago the flooring of choice was definitely carpets, wooden floors were mainly left to grand houses or school halls! In the eighties carpets enjoyed their heyday and possibly in your average home the only other flooring option was questionable lino (which all of us had). Carpet designs were heavily patterned and in reality for the majority of us, choice was limited.

By the time the nineties arrived people's homes became more minimal and people wanted something much more sleek than a carpet containing a myriad of swirling brown tones. Laminate and wooden flooring returned to our homes, followed swiftly by slates tiles, stone and even in some more industrial style homes, steel (brrrr!).

However, the changes gave us the opportunity to experience a vast array of flooring in our homes and although trends have come and gone we are now left in a position of being able to choose just the thing for our homes whether that's carpets, wood or tiles and here at Fishpools our wide range of options should please carpet and wood connoisseurs alike.

As far as modern trends go we are definitely seeing a return to the more cosier side of flooring. After several years in the shadow of its wooden rival, carpets are enjoying a new lease of life. Colours, piles, patterns and quality have all improved over the last couple of years and sales have soared.

And, especially at this time of the year with temperatures dropping we do seem to want something a bit softer underfoot. And, these newer designs mean that even the most modern of homes can fit carpets into the interior scheme.

Wood however is still extremely popular but the wood of preference is changing. A couple of years ago the lighter tones made up the lion's share of wooden flooring sales but things have gotten a little darker!

The vintage look has made a huge impact on homes in general with people taking inspiration from a more 'homely' home. Floral fabrics, upholstered sofas and flea market finds are not uncommon in many people's homes and to match that more eclectic look people are opting for woods that are tonally richer such as oak and mahogany.

But just because you go for wood that doesn't mean you have to forego any cosiness.

Underfloor heating has become much more affordable and popular and if you do live in an older property that is prone to winter chills then it could be a wise investment.

And of course for portable cosiness underfoot there's also a huge array of rugs available at Fishpools. We have something for everyone here from Indian inspirations through to modern chunky twists in a variety of colours ranging from muted creams to vivid pinks. You do have to see the range to believe it - but beware with so much to choose from you may need at least an hour to peruse our rugs!

So, with all that in mind, have a look downwards when you get home tonight - is it time to give your feet an autumnal treat? New flooring is a great investment and come those dark, cold night's (sorry, but they are just around the corner!) returning home to a more comfortable base will really be worth it!

Date published: October 2006. Please ask in store for the latest prices and details.

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