Area rugs are a tricky business: the right one can finish a space to perfection, while the wrong one can make a room feel awkward or unfinished. Taking into consideration just how expensive they can be, selecting a rug is something you may want to put a little extra thought into. There are three main elements to keep in mind when choosing the right rug for your space, so read on for tips on conquering the “rug shopping triad”.
Color: If you already have a lot of color and pattern in your space, you might want to stick with a single color rug, either a neutral or a shade that complements your existing furnishings. If you love pattern then consider a tone-on-tone design that will feel like a single-color rug but be visually simpler in the space. If you want a patterned rug with many shades, it’s generally easier to choose it first, and add in furniture and accessories that coordinate afterward. But if that’s your goal, consider seeking the help of a professional who can guide you in how to combine pattern and texture!
A rug will read as one of the largest pieces of “furniture” in the space, so be sure to take into account the tones in your flooring, walls and other fixed finishes when selecting. But don’t play it too safe: a boldly patterned or brightly colored rug can be just the ticket to lift a room to the next level.
Texture: This is probably the most overlooked aspect when choosing a rug, but it shouldn’t be. A room with a mix of different textures feels rich and layered, and an easy way to set this tone is by paying attention to the texture of your rug. There’s so much more out there than cut and looped wool!
Let the finishes of your existing furniture guide you, and aim for contrast. With seating in a soft fabric like velvet, something smooth and hard like a sisal might be the answer, while a sleek leather sofa looks great on something with a longer, fluffier pile.
Continue reading at bailiwickdesign.com/ learn more about other considerations when picking the perfect area rug:
- Pile Height
- Size
- Layering
- Fiber Options
- Safety
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