Each of the following styles has a unique look, as well as distinct advantages and drawbacks. Some styles are better suited to certain types of décor than others, based on their appearance. Here is more detailed information on carpets, including characteristics of each style, durability, and performance expectations. Because Saxony is available in different looks, it can work for almost any type of décor. Straight Saxonies work best for formal settings, because of their high-end velvet finish. However, this is the style that will show footprints across the surface of the carpet fibers, so it is a less popular choice for busy households. Textured Saxonies represent a large portion of the residential carpet market because they truly are versatile enough to use in almost any type of décor. Textured Saxonies are designed to minimize the appearance of footprints and vacuum marks on the carpet, so they work well in high-traffic areas. They have a less formal appearance than straight Saxonies, so they are suitable for more casual settings such as family rooms and dens. As Berbers first started to become popular in residential carpet, they were chosen mainly for areas of the home not used for entertaining such as home offices and basement rec rooms. This may be because they resembled commercial carpet styles, and were almost always multi-colored. Today, Berbers have moved away from the commercial look and can work well throughout the home. The solid-color Berber styles in the new soft fiber carpets (such as the Mohawk SmartStrand collection) look a bit more sophisticated than the older multi-colored styles but still add a nice relaxed feel to the room. Friezes have a laid-back feel to them (perhaps because the fibers literally lay back as opposed to standing up straight). They can have somewhat of a messy appearance because the fibers lay in every direction, but this is part of their charm. They tend to feel cozy and inviting. Based on this, friezes obviously don’t work for formal settings. They are great in family rooms and in basements, and they often look great on stairs, as the longer fibers can help to camouflage seams around railing posts. Cut and loop styles offer a wide variety of designs and textures, which work with various types of décor. The pattern made from combining the cut fibers and loops can range from a pin-dot style to a geometric design. Currently, linear patterns which give a striated look are very popular. Depending on the pattern of the cut and loop, this style can work in various areas of the home. It is often well suited to modern or industrial-style décor.
