Roll Out your Carpet in Style

Not only do they add colour and character to bare flooring and blank walls, but also reflect the homemaker's taste. Make the right choice. Devayani Medhekar tells you how

The easiest way to lend warmth to any room is to spread out a carpet . And it does not have to be one of those heirloom types - monstrously expensive that weighs heavy on the mind, and the floor. Modern carpets made of durable man-made fibres(Just Rugs) are giving the traditional variety a run for its money.

The Switchover The traditional and classical handwoven variety made from natural fibre (Persian, Kashmiri, Afghani, Turkish, Azerbaijani, Jaipuri, Agra rugs and so on) are not the most sought after anymore. Says Heena Handa, Delhibased interior designer: 'Homemakers are now sloughing off the clutter and fuss associated with traditional objects they grew up with.The modern carpet is value for money, low maintenance and here's the clincher - people now like things they can change frequently, so heavy investment makes little sense.

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Getting Carpet-wise Carpet selection is best done keeping in mind the room type (formal or casual) and the "traffic" (low, medium or heavy - more details below). Other elements to consider: Colour scheme, flooring type and budget. Each room defines its own carpet requirement Heavy traffic areas are the living room, the stairs and landing, and the hallway. To make a décor statement with minimum effort in these areas, go for the *shag carpet or rug. A textured carpet such as the saxony (saxonies have a smooth and soft finish and show subtle dark and light shades when brushed) works well in the formal living room. An easy-to-wash cotton rug works best in the children's room. In the less traffic areas such as the guest room, dining room and master bedroom, you may roll out the precious handwoven variety. Tip: Use tile carpeting if you have small children or pets - it is cheaper to replace single tiles. Also, for a busy family room, you may opt for a stain-resistant carpet even though more expensive - compensate in the low traffic areas such as the guest room. Carpets in the dining area are best avoided - in most Indian homes, they get in the way of the passage spaces - not to forget the food particles sticking to the fibres. Luxuriant yet cheaper shag rugs are a joy to step onto as you get out of bed, as are kilims*. Corridor spaces are perfect for runners - choose a vibrant traditional one.

Decor, flooring and budget influence carpet choice 'Mostly carpets are used as a contrast element, for instance an earthy/beige carpet offsets a bright coloured upholstered sofa. Whether you opt for a modern or classic depends on individual liking. A carpet of the same colour family, as the rest of the decor, works well to achieve an ultra sophisticated look with ease,' says Vandana Gurwara of a Delhi-based home store. Rashmi Sharma, Kolkata-based housewife says: 'The traditional carpets - Kashmiri and Persian - go well with my period furniture. I picked a colour from the carpet and draped my single lounge chair with it. In another room I have hung an artwork similar to that of the carpet colour.' Says Shobna Mullick, Delhi-based interior designer, 'What's on the floor - white marble or patterned tiles or wood - influences carpet choice.' Shobhna adds that some patterns complement certain décor styles. For instance, geometric patterns are often used in the art deco style while clean lines suit rooms with modern furniture. A classic, decorative pattern as found in Oriental rugs will give the finishing touch to a traditional room.

Tips On Buying A Carpet Carpets can be a lifetime buy - like art. A bit of homework goes a long way in getting a piece of your choice that is also within your budget. l Determine the type of carpet you want and the room you want it for. Do a thorough survey on the market variety and compare prices. l Get good deals during off-season. l Remember the effect of lighting in the shop and home always differs - be sure of the colour shade before you pay up. l For carpets, the warranties extend generally from 5 - 10 years for spills and wear and tear but always read between the fine lines. l Replacement terms and maintenance cost should be clearly understood. l Never reveal your keenness nor display your ignorance - be a savvy and alert negotiator. l Handwoven carpets have a life span of 20-30 years; the new age machinepunched yarns last 5-7 years.

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