The Tribune

By Jennifer Bethel Director, Seaglass Interiors Ltd Carpets and rugs are the final finish to any room, the piece that grounds you and everything in the space. Forget the plush pile carpets, and go thin. Here's why. The most bold and graphic patterns are showing up in rooms all over the world, why not do it here? Geometric patterns can bring style to any room. Whether an antique or contemporary style, the flat-weave carpets (without any soft pile) are chameleons; they are used to cover walls, tables and chairs in places like India, Turkey and Iran. Now, Western nations are starting their own trend, using these styles for rugs and carpets. Patterns like skinny stripes, thin weaves and geometric mod patterns are showing up all over. The less formal flat weave can work in any room, from the dining room all the way down the hall to a runner in your laundry room. The best flat weaves make you feel relaxed and welcome in a home, providing a 'come as you are' feel. Try mixing and matching colors like never before. A deep purple on the floor covering can make a sunflower-yellow pillow pop. Or a upholstered fuchsia chair can liven up the bold, navy diamond pattern it sits upon. Try the multicolor effect with a rug containing all colors of the rainbow, this will make a white room with casual slip-covered pieces be the star attraction. Think peacock blue walls and deep chocolate upholstery all floating above a zig zag patterned rug made up of the same colors.