Discover the secrets to decorating with rugs in your home.
Learn how to choose the perfect rug size, color, and material for each room.
Find out how to balance bold patterns with calm elements.
Get tips on creative rug placements and experimenting with different shapes.
Start reading now to transform your space with the perfect rug!
Pick a Rug That Fits Your Space
Go big rather than small.
- A rug that’s too small for the room can make the space feel disjointed.
- Aim for a rug that’s large enough to extend under the key furniture pieces.
- In the dining room, your rug should be big enough.
So that the chairs remain on the rug even when they’re pulled out.
No one wants to be stuck with the back legs of their chair hanging off the rug during dinner!
Use a rug pad underneath for added cushion.
- It protects your floors.
- And it keeps the rug securely in place.
Choose Colors and Patterns You Love
Consider what role you want the rug to play in your decor.
Do you want it to be a bold focal point?
Subtly coordinate with your existing decor?
Or fall somewhere in between?
Use the colors in your rug as inspiration for the rest of the room’s color scheme.
- An easy trick is to pick out accent colors from your artwork and throw pillows.
- Then incorporate those colors into the rug.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, patterns and shapes.
- Keep looking until you find something that speaks to you.
- The rug should complement your space and style.
The right rug can really bring your vision for the room to life.
Select the Right Material for the Room
Think carefully about which rug material makes the most sense for each space.
- Wool, silk, and natural fibers like sisal or jute are versatile options.
They work in many rooms. - I recommend avoiding synthetic materials like viscose blends in rugs.
They are difficult to clean. - For bathrooms or other damp areas, check out indoor/outdoor rugs.
Look for ones made of quick-drying materials.
In general, look for a rug material that fits your lifestyle and the room’s purpose.
Low-pile rugs are easier to keep clean in high-traffic areas.
While a plusher rug works well in cozy spaces like bedrooms.
Balance Bold Rugs with Calmer Decor
If you fall in love with a rug that has a very bold, energetic pattern, have a plan.
You’ll need to balance it with more muted, calming elements in the rest of the room.
This way the space doesn’t feel too visually overwhelming.
- In bedrooms especially, I suggest avoiding extremely loud, high-contrast rugs.
The bedroom is a space where you want to feel relaxed. - You can still use color and pattern.
Just aim for a softer overall effect. - On the flip side, if your larger furniture pieces are quite plain, that’s an opportunity.
You can use a rug with a busier, more colorful design.
This adds interest and liveliness to the room.
Get Creative with Your Rug Placement
Rugs aren’t just for the floor!
- Try draping a pretty rug over the back of a couch or daybed.
- This adds softness and a decorative touch.
- You can even hang rugs on the wall as unique artwork.
Feel free to layer rugs over existing carpet.
- This defines different zones in a room or adds coziness.
- Just make sure the rugs are secured properly.
- You don’t want any slipping hazards.
Don’t limit rugs to “traditional” spaces like living rooms and bedrooms.
- An antique runner can add charm to a kitchen.
- While a flat-weave rug can lend warmth and cushion underfoot in a home office.
- Let your creativity run wild!
Experiment with Different Rug Shapes
Don’t feel limited to just rectangular rugs!
- Depending on your space and furniture layout, other shapes may work better.
- A round, oval or square rug could be the ideal fit.
An oddly shaped room can benefit from a non-rectangular rug.
- Look for one that echoes the room’s contours.
- For example, try a circular rug under a round dining table.
- Or place one in a cozy reading nook.
Balance Bold Rugs with Calmer Elements
If you choose a rug with a very busy, eye-catching pattern, balance is key.
- You’ll want to balance it out with more subtle, solid-colored furnishings.
This avoids visual overload.
The inverse works too.
If you have a lot of solid-colored furniture, a boldly patterned rug is a great addition.
- It can add liveliness and character to the space.
It’s all about finding that perfect equilibrium.
Strike a balance between statement-making and serenity in your design.
Layer Rugs Over Carpet
Do you have wall-to-wall carpeting but still want to incorporate rugs?
Go for it!
- Layering rugs over carpet can add visual interest.
And it helps delineate different areas in an open-concept space. - For a foolproof layered look, try a neutral, natural-fiber rug.
Sisal or jute work well over a low-pile carpet.
The texture of the rug will add depth to the room.
Without clashing with the carpet. - Just be sure to use a non-slip rug pad between the carpet and rug.
This keeps everything securely in place.
The key takeaway is that a great rug is an integral part of your decor.
- It’s not just an afterthought.
It’s worth investing the time to find that perfect rug. - Look for the right size, color, pattern and material to pull your space together.
A rug is more than just a functional floor covering.
- The right rug can take your room to the next level.
It serves as a beautiful foundation for the rest of your design. - So have fun exploring the wide world of rugs.
Your dream rug is out there waiting to come home with you!