Rugs help define the atmosphere of a room, acting as an anchor to tie all the elements together. By carefully considering your style, requirements, and the unique characteristics of your space, you can choose the ideal rug that will elevate your decor. Explore our comprehensive rug style guide for valuable tips on finding the perfect rug for your needs.
Selecting a Rug Size
Rugs come in all shapes and sizes, but your rug should be proportional to its room. To create a balanced look, carefully measure the space to ensure the perfect fit, or try these tips based on the type of room.
Living Room
In the living room, try a low-pile rug that extends underneath the front legs of your furniture—but leave a foot of visible flooring around the room’s perimeter. Large rugs help tie your furniture together while providing a cozy, plush cushion underfoot.
Dining Room
Choose a high-pile rug that matches your dining room table’s shape to maintain balance. The rug should extend 24-30 inches on all sides of the table so your dining room chairs fit when pushed out.
Bedroom
Aim for a rug that fits centered beneath the entire bed with at least a foot of extra room on each side of the frame, minus the headboard. Alternatively, opting for floor runners on one or both sides of the bed can accomplish a soft, balanced look.
Kitchen
Layered rugs provide unique flexibility and are easy to shift and rearrange. Mix and match different runner sizes and leave about six inches of open space between the rug’s corners and your cabinets and walls.
Choosing a Rug Color
Your rug color sets the tone and ties your aesthetic together. The color should complement the primary and secondary colors of your existing elements, like the floor, ceiling, walls, and furniture. Always bring some color swatches of your relevant shades when you go shopping for rugs.
Light, Neutral Colors
Light shades open up small spaces that lack natural lighting. Warm and cool neutrals have a soothing quality and allow for versatility when changing future room elements.
Dark, Bold Colors
Dark, bold rugs complement elegant, modern rooms and help establish an intimate vibe in large, open rooms. Dark-colored rugs work well in high-traffic spaces, as they easily hide dirt and spills.
Patterns
Patterned rugs can liven up your space. If your room has neutral walls or furniture, choose a multi-colored rug with a variety of complementary tones for a balanced, unique vibe.
Materials and Style
When choosing a rug material, consider how the space in question will be used.
Cotton
Cotton rugs are affordable and easy to clean, and they work in almost any space! However, they are known to deteriorate over time unless carefully taken care of.
Silk
Silk is a classic choice for a luxurious, soft look. They’re a higher-end rug and typically require professional cleaning, as stains and footprints are more apparent.
Wool
Wool is a reliable and multi-use material that is also durable. It’s stain-resistant and water-repellent, as well as a top choice to make rooms feel cozy and welcoming.
Sisal, Jute, or Sea Grass
These durable, natural materials create ideal rugs for niche spaces, and their strong, rich textures provide visual interest.
Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic material rugs are affordable, family-friendly, and can handle heavy use. If you’re looking for a simple, easy-to-clean rug for a hallway or entryway, a synthetic rug is a solid choice.
Choosing Rug Pile
“Pile” refers to a rug material’s density or thickness and helps determine its performance.
Low-Pile Rugs
Low-pile rugs have short fibers and thin loops. They’re easy to clean, so they fit well in busy spaces like kitchens and walkways.
High-Pile Rugs
High-pile rugs have tall, loose fibers. These soft, plush rugs offer a more luxurious feel than low-pile and work well in cozy spaces like bedrooms and living rooms.
Layering Rugs
Layering rugs establishes a smooth flow for spaces with open floor plans. Layer multiple small, medium, and large rugs throughout your space to maximize coverage and complement existing elements. For neutral rooms, mix and match multiple patterns and textures with complementary solid-colored rugs to add warmth and definition to your design.
Find the Perfect Rug for Your Space
Congratulations! You’ve nailed down the logistics of how to select a rug for your space. Need a second opinion? With our home styling services, Minnesota Home Interiors can help put the finishing touches on your perfect space! Get started by contacting us today.
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