Rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are essential elements of home decor that can transform a room’s aesthetic, add warmth, and define spaces. Whether you are decorating a new home or refreshing your current space, here are five ultimate styling tips to help you make the most of in-house rugs.
Choose the Right Size
Selecting the appropriate size for your rug is crucial. A rug that is too small can make a room feel disjointed, while an oversized rug might overwhelm the space.
- Living Room: The rug should be large enough to fit under the front legs of your furniture. Ideally, all furniture should sit on the rug, but if that’s not possible, aim for at least the front legs of your sofa and chairs.
- Dining Room: The rug should extend beyond the table and chairs. Ensure that the rug is large enough so that when the chairs are pulled out, they remain on the rug.
- Bedroom: Place the rug under the bed, extending it out on all sides. For a more cost-effective option, use smaller rugs on each side of the bed.
Consider the Room’s Color Scheme
A rug can either complement or contrast with your room’s color scheme, depending on the effect you want to achieve.
- Complementary Colors: Choose a rug that matches the dominant colors in your room for a harmonious look. This works well in rooms where you want a calm and cohesive atmosphere.
- Contrasting Colors: For a bolder statement, select a rug in a contrasting color. This can add visual interest and become a focal point in the room.
Play with Patterns and Textures
Patterns and textures can add depth and personality to your space.
- Patterns: Use patterned rugs to add interest to a room with neutral or plain walls and furniture. Stripes, geometric patterns, and floral designs can all bring different vibes to a space.
- Textures: A textured rug can add a tactile dimension to a room. For instance, a shaggy rug can make a living room feel cozy, while a flat-weave rug might be better for a high-traffic area like a hallway.
Layering Rugs
Layering rugs is a trendy technique that can add an extra layer of style and comfort to your home.
- Base Layer: Start with a large, neutral rug as the base. This rug should be large enough to anchor the room.
- Top Layer: Add a smaller, patterned or textured rug on top. This allows you to introduce different styles and colors without overwhelming the space.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different shapes and textures. For example, layering a cowhide rug over a jute rug can create a stylish, eclectic look.
Define Spaces with Rugs
Rugs are perfect for defining different areas within a room, especially in open-concept living spaces.
- Living Room: Use a rug to define the seating area. This helps create a cozy, intimate space within a larger room.
- Dining Area: A rug under the dining table can delineate the dining area from the rest of the living space.
- Home Office: Place a rug under your desk to define your workspace and add a touch of comfort.
In-house rugs are versatile decor elements that can significantly enhance the look and feel of your home. By choosing the right size, considering the color scheme, playing with patterns and textures, layering rugs, and using rugs to define spaces, you can create stylish, comfortable, and cohesive interiors. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a more eclectic style, these ultimate styling tips will help you make the most of your in-house rugs.
Layering Rugs: Adding Texture, Style, and Definition to Your Space
Layering rugs can add a tactile dimension to a room that a single tapestry can’t achieve. Plus, it’s often a more budget-friendly way to create a styled carpet look. Although you might hesitate to flex your design muscles with this trend, the possibilities and results are endless. Look to these beautiful interiors and our curated combinations for endless inspiration that embrace the “more is better” concept.
Visual Interest and Contrast
Layering rugs introduces visual intrigue and contrast to a room. A common approach is to pair a large jute rug with a smaller, patterned mat. However, you don’t have to stick to natural seagrass as your base. Try using a delicate flokati or layering patterns upon patterns, like in the room from Amber Interiors, for an eclectic mix. Choose a variety of rugs in similar textures, shades, or patterns to unify your space.
Budget-Friendly Option
Layering can be more budget-friendly than purchasing an oversized rug. Room-sized handmade rugs (like a 9’x12′ or larger) can be expensive, but by choosing a smaller version of your dream rug, you can easily layer it on a more affordable natural woven or shag rug for a cost-effective option that achieves a similar look. For instance, if you love a Moroccan wedding rug, layering it over a larger, more affordable rug can create the desired effect without breaking the bank.
Defining Open Floor Plans
If you have an open floor plan or live in a studio apartment, layering rugs can help define different areas. By layering a smaller, more styled rug over a larger one, you can create distinct, cohesive spaces. The room by Cloth and Kind demonstrates how layering rugs can anchor floating furniture in a spacious living room with multiple rugs.
Repurposing Smaller Rugs
A small decorative rug from years (and homes) past that doesn’t quite fit your new space can still work thanks to the layering trick. Simply highlight and frame it on a larger neutral rug; now the too-small rug becomes a perfect, cozy addition to your living room.
Endless Combinations
The combinations and styling possibilities with layered rugs are endless. From mixing and matching different patterns, textures, and colors to strategically placing rugs to define spaces and add depth, layering rugs can transform your interior design. Embrace the layering trend to add a unique, personalized touch to your home.
By following these tips, you can create a dynamic and visually appealing space that reflects your style and meets your functional needs. Whether you’re looking to add texture, define areas, or work within a budget, layering rugs is a versatile and stylish solution.
