As a nation, we are obsessed with home décor, and the right flooring can completely transform a space through its unique blend of artistry and functionality. In this feature, we discover that great flooring design often begins far beyond the world of interiors. Inspiration comes from a myriad of sources, whether it’s cherished vintage styles, a love of travel and discovering new places, or a true appreciation of nature.
Hugh Mackay’s Wilton Legacy collection is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: that great craftsmanship never goes out of style.
Drawing on the rich tradition of Wilton weaving, the collection reimagines these classic techniques for the modern home by using polyprop yarn. The range combines texture, pattern, and quiet elegance to interiors that demand something more for their floors.
This is carpet designed to live with, luxurious without being precious, sophisticated without feeling cold. Wilton Legacy strikes the balance that so many collections chase but rarely find.
At the range’s core are designs that bring movement and character to the room, some, demanding all the attention. Patterns like Savanna and Leopard introduce a sense of rhythm underfoot, adding depth and visual intrigue from every angle without ever tipping into excess.
Bold graphic designs sit alongside softer patterns like Houndstooth and Jura – adding more grounding aesthetics that gives Wilton Legacy its distinctive edge.
What makes this collection truly compelling is how naturally it fits within design-led interiors. Whether anchoring a room rich with layered textiles and statement furniture, or complementing architectural detail and curated bookshelves, each pattern functions as a solid foundation and an undeniable focal point. Heritage and contemporary living brought together, effortlessly.
Over the past year, interior design has embraced a more maximalist and expressive direction. Rich colours, bold patterns and layered textures have transformed interiors from pared-back, tonal schemes into spaces with depth, character and visual richness. In these richly curated environments, flooring plays an important role, often requiring a complimentary carpet or rug to anchor statement prints and vibrant colour palettes.
For more than 20 years, Elements Luxury Carpets & Rugs has been creating exceptional flooring for the luxury interiors market. One of its most enduring collections is Havana, part of the prestigious 100% Wools of New Zealand collections. Featuring a sophisticated two-tone loop pile construction, Havana is available in five colourways inspired by the vibrant spirit of Cuba’s capital city. We spoke to Melissa Budasz, creative director who takes up the story, “The intoxicating Cuban capital of Havana pulsates with life unlike any other place on earth. We drew inspiration from its sun-drenched cobbled streets, lush vegetation and sultry salsa rhythms, creating a warm and vibrant collection that captures the city’s unique character.”
Building on the collection’s continued success, Elements Luxury Carpets & Rugs will introduce new colourways from mid-summer, featuring a richer palette of warmer tones.
“The Havana Collection’s appeal lies in its refined two-tone construction, with a cream loop woven through every colourway to create depth and subtle contrast. Expanding the palette into warmer tones felt like a natural evolution.”
Beyond its visual appeal, the range combines luxury with performance, offering exceptional durability alongside an irresistibly soft touch. The Havana Collection reflects Wools of New Zealand’s grower-owned commitment to transforming natural fibres into some of the world’s most beautiful and enduring textiles.
For Clare Jenkinson and Calvin Pope, Residential Designers at Ulster Carpets – inspiration comes in many forms.
From the natural landscapes and the abstract masterpieces of JMW Turner found in the hugely popular Watercolours range to reimagining traditional Plaids by introducing modern colour palettes, the design duo is influenced by the styles and colours around them.
“Colour is such an important element of what we do as that sets the tone,” explained Clare. “Working on Blends and Textures in our Natural Choice Collection has been a very different challenge as the colours are created by blending different colours of wool together. We worked closely with our wool specialists at Ulster Yarns and it gave us a greater appreciation of the various hues and tones found in the natural world.”
Calvin added, “Our Tufted Loop ranges, Blends and Textures, have different loop structures and we utilise this to enhance our design. Looking at the weaving process has also inspired a new range that we are very excited about.
“We delved into the past and the history of weaving to create a fresh look for some classic weave structures. It again proves that, when it comes to design, you can look back to create something new.”
Karndean’s latest additions to the Van Gogh collection invite homeowners to rethink herringbone as more than a classic pattern, positioning it as a foundation for personal, design-led spaces. For Spring 2026, four new wood-look designs reflect a shift towards interiors that feel considered, expressive and deeply connected to how we live today.
Drawing on key lifestyle directions, each floor offers a distinct starting point. Nature-inspired schemes find their balance in Classic Oak, where authentic grain and warm undertones complement layered materials and botanical influences. French Oak speaks to a quieter sense of luxury, pairing soft, neutral hues with a refined matt finish that feels both timeless and contemporary.
For more dynamic homes, Natural Prime Oak captures the ease of everyday living, offering a versatile base that adapts beautifully to evolving spaces. Meanwhile, Country Oak reimagines modern rustic style, blending familiar textures with a lighter, more curated aesthetic.
What unites them is the enduring appeal of herringbone. Its structured, rhythmic layout brings depth and movement, elevating interiors with a sense of craftsmanship. Combined with the durability of LVT, it delivers a seamless balance between style and practicality, designed for homes that are both beautiful and lived in.