As the two largest areas in a room, the carpet and walls control the colour theme. In selecting a carpet colour, do not feel limited by the room as it is today. Aim for the right colour scheme, starting off with the carpet. Paint or wallpaper is relatively inexpensive. Draperies can easily be changed, and reupholstering or covers can change the entire "feel" of a room.

Carpet color and texture affect the character of our room. Rooms that lack sunlight can be "warmed" and lightened with sunny yellow, apricot, or soft warm beige. Cool colours, such as blues and greens, soften or "cool" a room with lots of windows or a sunny exposure.

• Light colours generally show less footprints; dark colours show less soil and stains.
• A "dull" yarn will show less footprints; lustrous, while "shiny" yarns show more highlights and accents.
• To minimize maintenance, light colours are best restricted to areas of the house such as formal living rooms, dining rooms, and guest bedrooms.
• Multicoloured carpets are extremely effective in minimizing the effects of everyday dirt and soil.