Las Vegas has a reputation as the city that never sleeps, where gamblers are encouraged to spend money endlessly. Barcroft Media’s series of photos reveal the special role rugs play in casino operations.
Chris Maluszynski has spent years photographing kaleidoscope designs since he noticed them on his travels.
The carpet is located in the hallway of a casino. (Photo: Barcoft Media).
Chris said: “Las Vegas is the most surreal place in the world. In the middle of the giant desert appears a bustling, neon-lit urban area, which is strange enough in itself. But more strange is when I sat in the middle of that mess, trying to rest by looking at the floor, but there was no space left for my eyes to relax.”
Chris notices that even the rugs are as “noisy” as their surroundings, and only Las Vegas chooses such patterns.
The reason the carpets have impressive patterns with strong contrasting colors is to keep guests awake. This factor combined with the windowless design in the casino, guests will not know whether it is day or night outside, so they are diligently playing cards, spending money and staying awake.
Professor David Schwartz, from the Center for Game Research in Nevada (USA), said: “Casino rugs are known as furniture born to serve evil purposes, as they indirectly encourage people gamble”.
Multi-colored carpets will create an ideal “camouflage” place if guests drop things. (Photo: Barcroft Media).
Mr. David revealed that many places also use carpets with wheel motifs – a famous symbol of the ancient Romans, only property is something that fluctuates up and down.
“Is it a reminder to gamblers that life or luck is only fleeting, they should take advantage of eating and enjoying before everything turns 180 degrees?” , David posed the question.
“It seems that every interior in the casino is designed to keep visitors awake and stimulate all the senses, because they only spend money while they are awake,” said Chris.