Friday, May 12, 2023

Tips for Choosing the Best Area Rug for your Room

I recently purchased a home that was in need of some interior updates. The bones and layout of the house are great; the inside needed some love! I have been working through elements and rooms of the house.

We installed all new flooring (post coming soon about that) and now we are in need of some area rugs. There are so many choices out there for area rugs! It was a bit overwhelming at first, but I learned a few things along the way and wanted to share my tips on how to select the best area rug for your room. 

Choosing an area rug is more than just picking out the color or pattern; an area rug is a great way to enhance the beauty and warmth of a room. It can add texture, color, and style to any space.



Determine the purpose of the rug.

Before you start shopping for an area rug, you need to determine its purpose. Will it be used to define a seating area or to add color and texture to a room? Will it be used to protect a high-traffic area or to add warmth and comfort to a cold, hard floor? Once you know the purpose of the rug, it will be easier to narrow down and select the right size, material, and design.

 

 

Choose the right size.

The size of the rug is an important factor to consider. A rug that is too small can make a room feel disjointed, while a rug that is too large can overwhelm the space. As a general rule (and personal experience), the rug should be large enough to fit all of the furniture in the seating area, with at least 6-12 inches of space between the rug and the walls.

 


Consider the shape.

Area rugs come in a variety of shapes, including square, rectangle, round, and oval. The shape of the rug you choose will depend on the shape of the room and the furniture arrangement. A rectangular rug works well in a long, narrow room, while a round rug can soften the angles of a square or rectangular room.

 

 

Choose the right material.

Area rugs come in a variety of materials, each with its own unique texture, durability, and maintenance requirements. Some popular materials include wool, cotton, silk, jute, sisal, and synthetic fibers. Wool is a popular choice for its durability, natural stain resistance, and soft texture. Cotton rugs are easy to clean and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Jute and sisal rugs are durable and have a natural, earthy texture, but they can be difficult to clean. Silk rugs are luxurious and have a soft, silky texture, but they are expensive and require special care. I personally went with a wool / jute blend for my area rugs. They have some softness because of the wool, but living on the coast, still provides that coastal vibe I was looking for. 

 

Consider the color and pattern.

The color and pattern of the rug can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of the room. If you have a neutral color scheme, a bold, colorful rug can add a pop of color and interest to the space. If you have a colorful room, a neutral rug can provide a calming balance. When selecting a patterned rug, it's important to consider the scale of the pattern. A large, bold pattern can overwhelm a small room, while a small, intricate pattern can get lost in a large room.

 


Think about the texture.

The texture of the rug can add depth and interest to a room. A shaggy rug can add warmth and softness, while a flatweave rug can add texture without being too overwhelming. When selecting a textured rug, it's important to consider the maintenance requirements. For example, a shaggy rug can be difficult to clean and may not be suitable for high-traffic areas.


Set a budget.

Area rugs can vary widely in price, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Before you start shopping, it's important to set a budget and stick to it. Remember to factor in the cost of a rug pad, which can help extend the life of the rug and prevent slipping.

 

Don't forget about the rug pad!

A rug pad is an essential accessory for any area rug. It helps to prevent slipping, extend the life of the rug, and provide additional cushioning.
P.S. I do not receive a commission on these links, I just really like the products and companies! 



Tips for Choosing the Best Area Rug for your Room

I recently purchased a home that was in need of some interior updates. The bones and layout of the house are great; the inside needed some l...