I've been sewing in a room with carpet for 11 years and have never stepped on a needle or pin. I use an office chair mat under my sewing center and it's never been a problem---not even over by my design wall where I keep and use lots of other pins.
If you keep a neat area I would suggest trying the carpet.You won't have a problem. If you're a sloppy sewer perhaps the flooring would be better.