Rugs can be used in so many different ways - to accessorise a room, define different living spaces within a room, or to add that warmth and softness. Floor rugs work equally well in all environments - it's all about choosing the right rug for the room and your style.

Babies, children and pets can give your floors a serious work-out! Highchairs, toddlers dragging furniture, muddy paws and ride-on toys can leave your floor looking, well, less than fabulous. And because your heart melts for your babies (including your fur babies) we know you’re looking for a hardwearing but easy-to-clean flooring option, especially in those high-traffic areas of the house. You want to get it right for those family members who spend a lot of time close to the ground!

Hybrid flooring can withstand the harshest of New Zealand’s climatic changes

Although the products used for a commercial flooring application may be different to those in many residential uses, one thing remains the same: it must be fit for purpose. That’s the message from Harrisons Carpet Hastings franchise owner, Jeff Burson, who says it’s still vital to quiz building and business owners on their key requirements before helping them choose the right flooring.

The simple equation to choosing the right type of flooring for your home involves weighing up and balancing three factors: lifestyle, look and practicalities. Carpet, laminate and vinyl options all tick certain boxes for different households. Considerations can include budget, comfort level, sunlight exposure, high-use areas, existing interior design, children and pets. So, it’s important to understand the benefits of each style of flooring before making your decision.

After 15 years in the business, New Plymouth-based Harrisons Carpet franchise owner Peter Brisco says the latest trend is for kitchen renovations – possibly because renovation shows are about as popular as cooking shows. However, there’s still plenty of interest in bathrooms, living spaces and bedrooms and adding value to these rooms as well.

Fashion and design trends come and go, but Harrisons Carpet expert Christina Gardner, who owns and operates her business in central Christchurch, says it’s still vital to ensure that your carpet and flooring have the longevity and quality to withstand seasons, trends and work well in a Kiwi environment.

Carpet is a very popular choice for bedrooms due its soft texture and insulating properties. Carpet is perfect on those chilly winter mornings to stop cold-feet-syndrome and adds an element of cosiness as well as luxury.

When it comes to choosing hard flooring, there are a number of things to consider. Where in your home will the new flooring reside – kitchen, bathroom, living room? Is it an area prone to a lot of sunlight or water? And there is always budget to consider as well.