MODA Guest Blogger: Claire Bowen, Shaw Flooring, http://www.shawfloors.com/
The family room. Chief gathering spot. Relaxation Central.
Since it’s the space where lots of your family’s life happens, it should be comfortable, cozy, and inviting. And all the furnishings should be durable and family-friendly—especially the sofa, the chairs … and the floor.
If it’s time for new family-room flooring, you’ll want to consider not only style preferences but foot-traffic and use. Here are some helpful tips:
Carpet. Like to stretch out on the floor and play board games with the kids? You may want carpet—it’s soft, warm, and sound-absorbing. You can go with lighter colors, thanks to modern stain-resistance technology. But darker colors, luxurious textures, and today’s cool patterns are also forgiving of daily life.
Hardwood and laminate. You may prefer the elegance of a hard surface floor. Wood and wood looks are extremely versatile—they can be rustic and outdoorsy or sleek, rich, and sophisticated. Plus, high-tech finishes make them more durable than ever.
Tile and stone. Tile and stone can withstand loads of wear and tear. Just use a big, lush area rug if children are running around. It’s great flooring for a room with a pool entry, but be sure to get something with texture to reduce slipperiness. Tile can be installed with decorative accents or in unusual patterns to add interest.
Area rugs. Placing a rug over tile, hardwood, laminate—or even carpet—works beautifully from the standpoint of both fashion and function. It adds softness, extra luxury, and an exciting touch of personal style.