Finding the perfect area rug is sort of like discovering the perfect pair of shoes to go with an outfit. It completes the look and just seems to tie everything together. The type of rug you choose is really up to you; but our team at Rooms With Style will guide you as you select a rug that is “just right” for your space. One that will stand the test of time in terms of both quality and style.
Size It
First, you will need to determine the size of rug that is right for your space. Ideally, the legs of your furniture should be on the rug and you should leave about 18 inches of open floor space between the rug and the wall. Most rooms with conversation areas will benefit from a rug that is at least 8’x10’ in size. A larger room may need a bigger rug. If you have an open concept space, we recommend using several different large area rugs that can help define each space separately.
An area rug should be a major component to the design of a room. A 4’x6’ or 5’x7’ rug may be perfect in an entryway, small office, small nursery or bathroom. Too small rugs in large spaces will look lonely or like they are floating in the room. Your rug should ground your space. For a dining room rug, the table and chairs should be centered and placed directly on the rug. You can use runners to brighten up a hallway, bathroom or kitchen.
Finding the perfect rug for a room can take some time. Sometimes as stagers, we have the perfect rug in mind for a space, but then can have trouble finding the rug that we envision in the stores. In this case, don’t fear. Sometimes being patient and checking back at the same stores over a period of time will prove successful. We will share some of our favorite destinations for rugs at the end of this blog!
Style It
If you can’t envision the perfect rug for your space, here are some guidelines for what to look for in an area rug that will stand the test of time and style. If you have neutral or solid fabrics or upholstery in your space, choose a rug that that has a pattern to give your space a pop of color and interest. Choose a rug with one or two dominant colors only, especially if you are choosing a rug with pattern on it. Rugs with lots of texture in the weave (such as sisal, jute or seagrass) can actually stand in for pattern in a rug.
Our favorite rugs for staging homes are often neutral in color, with lots of texture or with a larger pattern in a single color. These rugs bring visual interest without overwhelming a space. This is also a smart choice if you don’t plan on switching out your rug often. A neutral colored rug with texture will look great no matter what color your fabrics and upholstery are, or what decor you bring into the room. These other elements are often easier and more affordable to change.
Make your rug work for you and your space. Use rugs to brighten a space, or tone them down. If you find a particularly beautiful rug that you just adore, you can also style your room around this statement rug.
Our go-to materials for rugs have to be those with natural fibers and medium to thick pile. While we appreciate a thin washable rug in high traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens, in general it is ideal to invest in rugs that have a bit of substance to them. There are lots of natural fiber rugs to choose from these days, including wool, jute, seagrass, hemp, cotton and even silk and fur.
We are happy to share some of our favorite brands and stores for beautiful area rugs. In no particular order, we love RugsUSA, Target, World Market, TJMaxx, Homegoods, Marshalls, Ikea, Pottery Barn, West Elm, Safavieh, Home Depot, Lowes, WalMart, Birch Lane, Joss and Main, Wayfair, Ballard Designs, and NuLoom.
Area rugs are a great way to draw people into your space, and invite them to stay longer. They are “heavy hitters” in that they anchor a room and really define the space for you. We hope that these tips will help you as you discover a beautiful new rug for your home.
Author: Marla Carlson, Rooms With Style Blogger
