Selecting an area rug is a big decision (and often a major purchase). So naturally, you want to find just the right one.
But what does that mean? What kind of area rug will work best in your space, creating the sort of visual aesthetic that resonates with you? If you’re feeling a bit lost, you’re not alone.
Fortunately, using a few simple secrets from interior design pros for choosing area rugs can make the process easier and fun.
Ready to learn more? Let’s dive right in so you can choose the perfect area rug for any room.
Take a Close Look at Your Furniture and Decor
While you’re selecting an area rug for any type of room, the first thing you’ll want to do is look closely at your furniture and decor.
Ask yourself a few questions like these: how would you describe the style (or blended styles)? What are the most prevalent color schemes and textures? Which pieces of furniture would you most like to complement or accent?
By taking time to notice the existing details in a room, you can get a better feel for what type of rug will best suit the space.
Determine the Right Size
The size and shape of your rug can alter how large a room feels or separate open floor plans into designated spaces, so it’s essential to get it right.
No matter what size you select, be sure that the margins between the edge of the rug and the walls are even all around.
Additionally, you’ll want to choose a rug that allows at least the front legs of all your seating and side tables to rest on the rug to draw the whole room together visually.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Every individual, couple, and family has different needs for home furnishings, including rugs. So before you commit to a rug, consider your lifestyle.
For example, if you anticipate frequent stains from pets, children, or entertaining guests, opt for materials that can be easily spot cleaned. Aiming for a chic look that serves as the ideal backdrop for your art and decor? Consider options that have more dramatic colors or rich textures.
Explore Options Within Your Budget
When you start looking for inspiration for an area rug, it can be tempting to look at every option on the market and get excited about your upcoming purchase. But don’t get carried away without knowing your budget.
Fortunately, many independent and local rug specialists can work with you to find quality products that fit your budget and give your space the visual boost you’re looking for. Just know what you’re able to spend before you start shopping to avoid disappointment during the process.
Select the Perfect Color
The right rug can transform the energy in a room, and selecting the perfect color is essential to achieving your design goals.
But don’t think that means selecting a neutral rug to mingle with neutrally-toned furniture or that the color needs to match perfectly with your furnishings at all. In fact, the opposite is true.
Try boosting your mood with a brightly colored rug if your furniture is subtle or a neutral tone that allows bold, eclectic furniture to take center stage.
Be Adventurous with Patterns
Don’t be afraid of traditional rugs with intricate, beautiful patterns or vintage-inspired designs that don’t perfectly match the style of your furniture.
You may be surprised at how blending traditional rug patterns and styles with more modern furniture or antiques from a different time period can create a truly stunning visual worthy of a design magazine editorial!
Get a Second Opinion
When in doubt, ask a friend for their honest opinion.
You might bring them along to rug showrooms to help you shop or ask for their input on what they think will work well in your space.
Sometimes, asking someone who doesn’t live in your home for decorating advice can yield creative ideas you never would have considered before.
Keep an Open Mind
Don’t limit yourself to standard rug selections and placement if you’re at a loss for ideas!
In recent years modern interior designers are loving the look of layered rugs that add visual dimension and texture to any space. Whether you use rectangles of different sizes in a perfectly symmetrical stack or mix and match rugs of various styles and shapes in a unique arrangement, you can’t go wrong when you let your creativity guide you.
Conclusion
Choosing the right rug to bring out the best in your home can be a challenge, but it doesn’t need to add stress if you know what to look for.
Using these tips can help you find the perfect area rug for any space, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone to transform and improve the look of your home.