Roll out the carpet to step up your style

We want to update our bedroom but prefer wall-to-wall carpet to hardwood. What do you suggest for carpeting that would look good with a metal bed? Shauna

Wall-to-wall carpeting is back in fashion with fabulous textured designs that suit contemporary style. “We are seeing carpet innovations using multicolour fibres to create rich patterns such as the granite look,” says Kerri McKeen, carpet product manager at Shnier, a major floor coverings solutions company.

“The emphasis is on soft . . . the new manufacturing processes have perfected the production of fibres that are sweet and soft underfoot as well as long-wearing and stylish. Grey is the big colour story, with other shades such as taupe, blue and green all having grey undertones.”

The variety of designs offer solutions for transitional and updated styles as well. We have lived in our house for 30 years and want to modernize it. There is a brick wall at one end of the living room where there was originally a wood-burning stove. We have replaced it with a gas fireplace and traditional white mantel. Would you suggest covering the brick? Judie

Traditional, country and modern styles accommodate exposed brick walls. You can cover the brick, or partially cover it so that it is not so imposing.

Drywall is adhered to the brick with drywall joint compound and nails to hold it firm while drying. Your choice of light grey walls is a good one with or without the brick. Look for a contemporary wall-to-wall carpet design.

This will set up your fresh style immediately. A sleek new sofa in grey or camel tones and accent seating in colourful or patterned upholstery will transform this space. Debbie Travis’s House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. You can follow Debbie on Twitter @debbie_travis and visit Debbie’s new website, debbietravis.com.