In the zone

Delineated interior zones have seen a rise in importance following Covid-19’s impact on residential and social spaces. Lucy Upward looks at the role of rugs

One thing that those who work with rugs are well aware of is that to create an intimate space within a larger interior you just need to put a rug on the floor, and the formation of a social ‘bubble’ is instigated. A rug can create a world all of its own. Place a number of different rugs in a large room and you have created a series of zones that can be quite different in nature.

We are all now well aware of social distancing and the possibility of the concept remaining with us in the longer term. As designers look to changes in architectural and interior planning with Covid-19 in mind, the ‘personal bubble’ becomes an important focus. In the future it looks as though public spaces will need to feature cues to encourage social distancing without being too obvious and intrusive. In commercial interiors perhaps rugs and floorcoverings could be an increasingly important way of delineating space with design and comfort in mind.

In terms of residential interiors, the focus is now on flexible homes. Your living space is no longer just somewhere to relax with your family. For many it is now a place to work, educate your children, work out, and then switch off at the end of the day. Homes are taking on new important roles and having to wear multiple hats so instead of rueing the day you knocked down your internal walls to create an open space, the way forward is to focus on creating zones of activity with rugs leading the way.

The texture and design of premium rugs have the power to create new zones and environments for our new ways of living.