Rugs are one of those accents in your home that when done right are so right, but when done wrong will make your space look not so hot. Rugs are more than just another floor covering. They are an instant way to create softness, warmth and texture, as well as define spaces by visually grounding them, add a layer or luxury underfoot, and add some personality in your space. Something I see all the time is wrongs that are the wrong size for the space, or placed incorrectly in a room. So here is your guide to solve those design flaws and make your rug make a statement (rather than a faux pas)!
The Importance of Rugs
First of all, why do rugs even matter? There are lots of reasons why you should invest in a good rug and what it can do for your home!
Visual Appeal: Rugs serve as eye-catching focal points, pulling together different design elements in a room. They can complement or contrast with existing color schemes and furniture, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Comfort and Warmth: Besides protecting you from walking on cold floors, rugs provide a comfortable surface to walk and sit on. They create a cozy vibe, making your space inviting and welcoming.
Defining Spaces: Rugs help define separate areas within an open-concept layout and give, for example, your dining area and the living room their own boundaries. When walls aren’t there to provide that visual break, rugs are the secret to bringing the scale down to a more comfortable feel. This helps with the overall organization or separation of your home.
Reducing Noise: Noise transferring from room-to-room or between shared walls can be annoying. Rugs actually help to absorb and reduce that noise, whether it’s vibrations, sound, or things being dropped on the floor.
Protecting Your Floors: Everyone loves a beautiful hardwood floor, right? But, they can be an expensive investment, so it’s worth protecting them! Rugs are a great way to reduce the wear-and-tear in high-traffic areas, like under your dining table where scratches from dining chairs will inevitably show up. It’s also great for protecting wood (or carpet) from things like spills, stains, and scuffs.
Choosing the Right Rug
“How do I pick the right rug? It feels so permanent and like a big decision!” This is something I see clients have struggled with on their own so many times. Selecting the perfect rug comes down to a few factors. Here are the top five things I consider when selecting a rug:
1. Purpose: Start by defining the purpose of your rug by asking yourself: Is it for adding warmth and comfort, defining a seating area, or purely for aesthetic purposes? Understanding the functionality will allow you to choose the right size and style. (More on sizing later!)
My Insider Tip: Rugs, especially large ones, can be very costly. One thing I’ve found to be helpful is layering rugs. Find a cost-effective neutral rug, like a sisal or a nice broadloom you can bind, and have it made to the right size for your room. Then layer a smaller size of the rug you adore on top. You’ll make a statement without the high price tag.
2. Material: Choosing the right rug material is essential for both style and practicality. Wool is a durable and stain-resistant choice, while cotton is budget-friendly and easy to clean but less robust. Synthetic fibers like polypropylene are affordable and great at repelling stains but may lack a natural look. Natural fibers like jute offer an organic, rustic texture but might not be as soft. Silk rugs are luxurious but delicate. Animal hides are easy to clean and bring a natural touch. When deciding on the rug material, consider your lifestyle, budget, and the room's purpose to find the best fit for your decor.
My Insider Tip: No matter the material, know the cleaning instructions! Every material comes with its own pros and cons. Knowing how to care for your rug is the first step to make sure your investment lasts.
3. Pattern: The pattern on a rug can set the tone for the entire room. Bold, intricate patterns can be a statement piece, while simpler designs can provide balance. Consider the existing patterns in your space when choosing a rug.
4. Color: Rug color can make a huge impact on the room's vibe. Lighter colors tend to make a space feel more open and airy, while darker colors add depth and warmth. The color of your rug will set the mood for your space, so make sure to coordinate your rug color with your existing decor.
My Insider Tip: If you’re trying to lighten up a dark space (whether the flooring is too dark, or there isn’t enough natural light in the room) add a large light colored rug. It will instantly brighten the space and help the little light that is available bounce off its bright surface.
5. Texture: How do you want your space to feel? A plush, soft rug can make a room feel luxurious, while a flat-woven rug may provide a more casual vibe. Think about how the rug's texture complements your furniture and other elements.
Placing Rugs in Your Space
This is honestly the hardest part! Selecting the right size and placement for your rugs is key to that “when done right are so right, but when done wrong will make your space look not so hot.” Here are some expert guidelines to help you place your rugs in your space:
Living Room
In a living room the ideal scene would be to have a custom rug made that outlines the room's perimeter with a 4-6” border between the walls and the edge of the rug. This allows all of your furniture to sit evenly on top of the rug and adds a layer of comfort and luxury.
Pro tip: Make sure to have any floor a/c vents cut around so you still get the air flow!
When custom isn’t an option, look for a rug that’s the largest standard size you can find (8x10, 9x12, 9x13, etc) that allows at least the front feet of all your furniture to sit on the rug. This makes your space feel larger and creates a more cohesive look.
Dining Room
When it comes to rugs, size matters. I see this all the time… the “too small” dining room rug. Your rug should be large enough to accommodate both the dining table and chairs, even when they are pulled out for seating. A good rule of thumb is to add 24 inches minimum to each side of the table so there is enough space for the chair legs to be on the rug when someone is sitting in the chair.
Bedroom
Rugs in bedrooms are key for adding a comfortable feeling when carpet isn’t on the floors. When deciding the size, know it’s going to be large. (And remember, if the design has a beautiful medallion in the middle… it’s going to be hidden under the bed.) The rug should be large enough that it extends to the outside edge of your nightstands and at least 18 inches past the foot of the bed. You can either choose a rug that fits entirely under the bed or opt for two smaller rugs on either side of the bed.
Are you ready to choose your next rug?
Rugs are a detail that you can’t afford to miss in your home. They offer so many benefits and usually are in it for the long haul with you. That’s why it’s so important to invest resources to find the right one. That’s where Amy Rebekah Interiors comes in! Drop us an email and let's find the rug you’ve always dreamed of together!
Comments