Is Commercial Carpet Poised for a Comeback?

Modern workplaces are evolving to “flex,” as Jessica Chevalier highlights in this month’s Floor Focus article “Trends in Corporate.” Flooring in today’s corporate spaces must do more than simply cover a surface; it needs to support acoustics, wayfinding, cleanability, and aesthetics while aligning with the broader strategy of the space.

Reflecting on the trend of concrete in corporate workplaces, interior designer Kate Cochrane shared a thought in the article that caught our attention: “Many companies are seeking softer materials that provide a warmer experience.” Softer? Warmer? It got us here at XL North thinking … could 2025 be the comeback year for carpet?

Comeback? More Like a Throwback.

Then again, does commercial carpet really need a comeback? For decades, it has held its ground as a popular choice, even amidst the rise of resilient and hard surface trends. Its unmatched blend of comfort, safety, and versatility ensures its continued relevance in commercial spaces.

1. Warmth and Comfort
   Carpet provides a soft, welcoming feel that hard surfaces can’t replicate. As hybrid work models take hold, companies are designing spaces that feel less formal and more like comfortable, productive hubs. Carpet plays a crucial role in setting that tone, creating environments that make employees feel at ease.
2. Safety First
   One of carpet’s biggest advantages is its contribution to workplace safety. Unlike hard flooring materials, carpet significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls and its cushioning effect also minimizes the impact of any accidents.
3. Noise Control
   Open-plan offices and collaborative spaces come with unique challenges, and noise is one of the biggest. Carpet excels at absorbing sound, creating quieter, more focused environments where teams can thrive—making it an invaluable choice in modern workplaces.
4. Design Versatility
   From subtle textures to bold patterns, carpet offers endless design possibilities. It’s a versatile tool for defining spaces, guiding movement through wayfinding, and enhancing the aesthetic impact of a workplace. Carpet allows designers to bring function and beauty together in ways that other materials cannot.
5. Sustainability
   The carpet industry has embraced sustainability with innovations like recycled materials, low-carbon manufacturing, and even carbon-negative products. These advances make carpet a practical and responsible choice, aligning with companies’ growing commitment to environmentally friendly solutions.
6. Durability and Maintenance
   Modern carpets are designed to withstand the demands of high-traffic environments without compromising their appearance or functionality. Advances in cleaning technology have made carpet easier to maintain, ensuring its long-term value in commercial spaces.

Carpet has never truly gone out of style. While trends have shifted over the years, carpet has remained a constant, quietly delivering value and versatility. Now, as companies prioritize comfort, safety, sustainability, and function in their evolving workspace strategies, carpet’s timeless appeal is more relevant than ever.

So, is 2025 the year of carpet’s comeback? Perhaps. But more importantly, it’s a reminder that carpet has always been the smart choice for commercial spaces. With its unmatched combination of comfort, safety, design versatility, and sustainability, carpet isn’t just keeping up with trends—it’s defining them.