Aussies’ love for carpeting most rooms in the home appears to be waning, according to results from the Great Flooring Debate survey.
The survey found that the development of flooring products, including hard flooring options such as hybrid, engineered timber, laminate and luxury vinyl, has changed the face of home décor, with the bedroom now the only space where carpet remains the most popular choice.
The online survey of more than 350 Australians was undertaken by Beaumont Tiles in April this year to settle the debate over which flooring Aussie householders prefer.
Design specialist, Darren Brittan, says that while houses once featured carpet in every room except the bathroom and kitchen, the results show it’s now among the least popular choices for most areas of the home.
“On the flip side, we’re seeing new-generation hard flooring products,” he says.
“Which combines the look of timber with water resistance and easy upkeep. It has become increasingly popular, along with tiles, across most living spaces.”
The research found that the new generation of hard flooring is the most popular type for the dining room, with 84% nominating it as one of the two they would likely consider using. New-generation hared flooring was also the most popular in hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. Tiles were the standout flooring for bathrooms, with 94% of Australians nominating them as the go-to option to use. Flooring was ranked as the most important design decision made by homeowners, outranking kitchens, bathrooms and décor.
“It’s no longer just about looks – homeowners want surfaces that can withstand life’s messiness without sacrificing style,” Darren says.
“Tiles continue to reign supreme in bathrooms thanks to their longevity, water resistance and ever-expanding range of styles that let people personalise their space.”
The research also found that more than 51% of the respondents have been deterred from buying a home due to the flooring, and flooring was the most important factor considered by home owners when making design decisions.
While personal taste will always play a role in home design, these findings signal a clear generational shift toward practicality, durability and design versatility.
“As technology continues to evolve and aesthetic expectations rise, it’s evident that Australians are becoming increasingly discerning about what lies beneath their feet,” Darren adds.
