Choosing the right rug is harder than you may think. They’re more than just floor coverings; they’re a statement of style, comfort and functionality in your living space. They help to provide a visual focal point to any room design. The right rug can transform a space, adding texture, warmth, comfort and personality. And there are so many different options, sizes, styles and colours on offer.
If you want to dramatically change the look and feel of a room without spending too much – a rug can be the perfect solution!
To create a well-balanced space it’s important to figure out the right size and shape for your rug as it can differ with each space in your home. You also have to consider what style, colour and texture suits your home, needs and personality.
Our blog this week explores some key factors you should consider when shopping for your rug.
Scale & Size
A rug needs to be scaled to complement the rooms dimensions, furniture layout and overall aesthetic.
Start by assessing the size of the room. A large room can accommodate a larger rug, while a smaller room may require a more compact option.
When deciding on size you have to work with principles of proportion. The area should be a minimum of 15 cm and no more than 60 cm from the wall.
Entrances & Hallways
For entryways and hallways runners are often a good choice.
An entry space rug width should either match the door space or be a few cm either way (not too long, not too short). If you use a round area rug in a foyer, centre it under the light fixture.
In a hallway, stretch the rug length to fill the space, leaving even space on both ends for balance. And if you plan to place any furniture in the hallway, keep it off the rug.
Living Spaces
In a living room a rug should be used as the anchor point in a room. It should be large enough for at least all the front legs of your furniture to rest on it. This will anchor the seating area and create a cohesive look.
If you have the space, I suggest investing in a rug that will provide space enough for the furniture to sit on top. In general, a 1.6m x 2.3m rug is the same width and length as an average three-seater sofa.
In dining rooms, rugs really need to be large enough to accommodate a dining chair in the pulled-out position – the chair legs should not ‘fall off’ the rug.
Zones
In a large room, one rug may not be enough to define separate areas. You can layer rugs to create distinct zones within one room, both inside and out.
For example, in a large open-plan living space you could use a rug to differentiate the living from dining areas. The furniture in each space could be placed on its own large rug.
Colours & Patterns
The Colour and pattern of a rug plays a significant role in defining a rooms ambiance and style, and is usually swayed by personal choice.
Adding a colourful rug to a scheme will make a statement, but you need to ensure it compliments all the other elements you are considering for the room. It has to balance against fabric and paint colours, as well as furniture and lighting shapes and sizes.
Neutral-coloured rugs, such as beige, grey or whites are versatile and timeless. They can easily blend into any décor style and serve as a backdrop for other vibrant design elements. Neutrals are ideal spaces with frequently changing décor.
With so many beautifully designed rugs available make sure you choose what fits in right with the décor of your home whether it be traditional, modern or retro etc.
If your room is looking a little bland and needs that “wow” factor I suggest a patterned or graphic rug. Whether geometric, floral or abstract, patterned rugs can add visual interest and depth to a room. These rugs are also a great way to add a layer of texture to a space where existing furniture is feeling lost. Make sure, however, that your chosen pattern complements the room’s existing décor and doesn’t clash with any other patterns present.
Materials
Rugs come in a variety of different materials, each with its own look, feel and maintenance requirements. The choice of material you select will largely depend on your lifestyle, budget and the room’s purpose. Will the rug be used just for a decoration in an unused space or will kids or pets be running on it daily?
High traffic areas will obviously require a hardwearing and more durable material that’s easily washable. Most people tend to lean towards a natural material for rugs such as wool or hemp. Wool rugs are known for their softness, durability and natural resistance to stains. They’re an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
Other natural fibers like jute, seagrass or sisal offer a more relaxed and organic look to a space. They’re great for adding warmth and texture, and are well suited to bohemian or coastal style homes. Underfoot, they tend not to be as soft or comfortable as wool or synthetic options.
Synthetic rugs, such as polypropylene or nylon, are more affordable than natural fibers such as wool. They’re also easy to clean and maintain which make them suitable for households with children and pets. The down side is that they lack the same level of luxury and longevity as wool rugs.
Silk rugs are the epitome of luxury. While they are visually stunning, they are also delicate and require careful maintenance. Not really a good choice for a busy family home.
Other Things You May Want To Consider
Your budget will be a vital factor in your rug selection process. Obviously, rugs come in a wide range of price points, from affordable to luxury.
Set a realistic budget based on your needs and preferences, and then add a little extra to accommodate the cost of a rug pad to protect your floors and enhance the rug’s comfort. Incorporating one of these is often overlooked. But having a rug pad can make a significant different in the longevity of your rug and also the feel of it under your feet.
Key Factors
Selecting the right rug for your space involves careful consideration of size, material, colour, pattern, style and budget. Using these key factors will enable you to find a rug that not only enhances the visual appeal of your space but also adds comfort and functionality.
Remember placing an interesting rug within a furniture setting has an instant impact and refreshes a space immediately.
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