Is carpet ‘out’?   – realestate.com.au

Once a staple in many Aussie homes, the popular flooring choice is losing its charm according to recent data.  

Whether building a new home or embarking on a big reno,  a new floor is an important design choice that impacts style and practicality.  

From budget-friendly vinyl and laminate to the elegance and durability of hardwood and tiles, there are a wealth of options for homeowners.  

According to new data from flooring retailer Beaumont Tiles, flooring decisions have recently topped the list of design priorities for homeowners, surpassing kitchens, bathrooms and décor.  

The brand’s “Great Flooring Debate” survey polled more than 350 Australians in April 2025 to determine which flooring they preferred.  

According to the brand, the data revealed that carpet is “out” for home builders and renovators, with a noticeable shift towards hard flooring options like hybrid, engineered timber, laminate, and luxury vinyl. The bedroom is now the only space where carpet remains the most popular choice.  

Verde features engineered European oak timber flooring across its apartments. Picture: realestate.com.au

---

Beaumont Tiles design specialist Darren Brittan said carpet now ranked as one of the least popular choices for most areas of the home.  

“On the flip side, we’re seeing new-generation hard flooring products, which combine the look of timber with water resistance and easy upkeep, become increasingly popular, along with tiles, across most living spaces,” he said. 

“It’s no longer just about looks – homeowners want surfaces that can withstand life’s messiness without sacrificing style.”  

Elsewhere, the data found hard flooring is the most popular choice for the dining room, with 84% nominating it as one of two they would most likely consider.  

It was also the most popular choice for hallways and living rooms – with 78% of preferences – and kitchens, which came in at 76%.  

This new generation of hard flooring is a popular choice in new developments, where carpet is becoming increasingly scarce. In fact, both high-quality engineered and hybrid options are increasingly being called out as an important facet of new home designs. 

For example, Virgate Property Group’s Verde development in Southbank Melbourne, uses Merlot engineered European oak timber flooring across its apartments. The warm hue of this choice matches well with the construction’s attempt to create a sense of living in a green oasis for residents. 

On the Gold Coast in Queensland, Morris Property Group’s Crest development features hybrid timber flooring, which is a more cost-effective choice in terms of installation. A lighter shade, it complements the property’s beachside design style. 

Crest features hybrid timber flooring, which complements the property’s beachside design style. Picture: realestate.com.au

---

Tiles still remain the top choice for bathrooms with 94% choosing it as the go-to option.  

“Tiles continue to reign supreme in bathrooms thanks to their longevity, water resistance and ever-expanding range of styles that let people personalise their space,” Mr Brittan said.  

“As technology continues to evolve and aesthetic expectations rise, it’s evident that Australians are becoming increasingly discerning about what lies beneath their feet.”  

Are you interested in discovering design trends being popularised by Australia’s latest builds? Check out our New Homes section.