Rugs

The size of your rug is perhaps the most critical factor. An incorrectly sized rug can make a room feel unbalanced or cramped. Here’s how to get it right for different areas:

• • Living Room: For a cohesive look, all front legs of your main furniture (sofa, armchairs) should sit on the rug. Alternatively, for a smaller space, just the front legs should rest on the rug, or a rug can simply sit in the center, leaving all furniture off for a conversational grouping. Common sizes include 8x10 ft or 9x12 ft for larger rooms, or 5x7 ft for smaller layouts.

• • Dining Room: The rug should be large enough so that when dining chairs are pulled out, they still remain entirely on the rug. This prevents chairs from catching on the rug's edge. Measure your table and add at least 24 inches on all sides.

• • Bedroom: A large rug (8x10 ft or 9x12 ft) can sit beneath the bed, extending on either side and past the foot of the bed. Another option is to place two smaller runners on either side of the bed. Ensure your feet land on comfort when you wake up.

• • Hallways & Entryways: Runners are ideal for these spaces, providing a warm welcome and protecting floors. Measure the length and width of the area, leaving a few inches of floor visible on all sides.

• • Shape: While rectangular rugs are common, consider round, oval, or irregular shapes to add visual interest or soften angular furniture arrangements.

The material of your rug dictates its look, feel, durability, and care requirements. Consider the room’s function and traffic levels:

• • Wool: Natural, durable, soft, naturally stain-resistant, and excellent for high-traffic areas. Can be more expensive.

• • Cotton: Soft, lightweight, and often washable, making it great for casual spaces, kitchens, or bathrooms. Less durable than wool.

• • Jute/Sisal: Natural, textured, and eco-friendly. Perfect for adding organic warmth. Best for low to medium traffic areas as they can shed.

• • Synthetics (Polypropylene, Nylon, Polyester): Incredibly durable, stain-resistant, fade-resistant, and affordable. Ideal for high-traffic areas, homes with pets and kids, or outdoor use.

• • Viscose/Rayon: Mimics the look and feel of silk, offering a luxurious sheen. Best for low-traffic, decorative areas as it’s less durable and sensitive to moisture.

• • Silk: The epitome of luxury, incredibly soft and lustrous. Expensive and typically used for decorative pieces in very low-traffic zones.

Your rug is a significant design statement. It can introduce color, patterns, or textures that tie a room together. Think about your existing décor:

• • Color: Do you want the rug to be a bold focal point, or a subtle complement? Consider your wall colors, furniture upholstery, and existing accents. A rug can introduce a new color or unify existing ones.

• • Pattern: Geometric, abstract, floral, traditional, or solid? Patterns add visual interest and can hide minor stains. Solids bring a sense of calm and allow other elements to shine.

• • Texture: Plush shags add ultimate coziness, while flatweaves offer a sleek, low-profile look. High-low piles create depth. Texture contributes significantly to the sensory experience of a room.

• • Consider the "Vibe": Is your room modern, traditional, rustic, bohemian, or eclectic? Choose a rug that supports that aesthetic. A contemporary abstract rug in a traditional room can create an exciting contrast, if done intentionally.

Where your rug will live dictates many of your choices:

• • High-Traffic Areas (Entryways, Living Rooms, Hallways): Opt for durable materials like wool or synthetics (polypropylene/nylon) and patterns or darker colors that can disguise wear and tear. Low pile rugs are often easier to clean.

• • Low-Traffic Areas (Bedrooms, Formal Dining Rooms): You have more freedom here. Indulge in softer, more luxurious materials like viscose, silk, or shag rugs for ultimate comfort.

• • Kids' Rooms/Pet-Friendly Homes: Stain-resistant, easy-to-clean synthetics are often the practical choice. Look for machine-washable options for ultimate convenience.

• • Outdoor Spaces: Only choose rugs specifically labeled "outdoor rugs." These are typically made from UV-resistant polypropylene designed to withstand the elements.

A good quality rug pad is an essential investment. It prolongs the life of your rug, prevents slipping, provides extra cushioning, and protects your floors. Choose a pad that is slightly smaller than your rug (about an inch shorter on all sides).