The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Area Rugs: Tips for Creating a Stylish and Functional Space

When decorating a space, area rugs can be a great way to add style and personality. They can also help to define different areas of a room and add warmth and comfort underfoot. However, with so many different types of area rugs on the market, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right one for your needs.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an area rug:

• Size and shape: The size and shape of your rug should be proportionate to the size and shape of your room. A rug that is too small will look lost in a large room, while a rug that is too large will make a small room feel even smaller.
• Material: Area rugs are made from a variety of materials, including wool, nylon, polyester, and polypropylene. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Wool rugs are durable and luxurious, but they can be expensive. Nylon rugs are stain-resistant and easy to clean, but they can be less comfortable underfoot. Polyester rugs are affordable and durable, but they can be prone to fading. Polypropylene rugs are water-resistant and fade-resistant, but they can be less comfortable underfoot.
• Color and pattern: The color and pattern of your rug should complement the dcor of your room. A neutral rug will go with any dcor, while a patterned rug can add a pop of color and personality.
• Price: Area rugs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect area rug for your home.

1. Size

Size is an important consideration when choosing an area rug. The size of the rug should be proportionate to the size of the room. A rug that is too small will look lost in a large room, while a rug that is too large will make a small room feel even smaller.

In general, a rug should be large enough to define the space, but not so large that it overwhelms the room. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 12 inches of bare floor around the perimeter of the rug.

Here are some examples of how rug size can affect the look and feel of a room:

• A small rug in a large room can make the room feel larger and more spacious.
• A large rug in a small room can make the room feel more cozy and intimate.
• A rug that is too small for the space can make the furniture look disjointed and scattered.
• A rug that is too large for the space can make the room feel cluttered and cramped.

By choosing the right size rug, you can create a more balanced and harmonious space.

2. Shape

Shape is another important consideration when choosing an area rug. The shape of the rug can affect the overall look and feel of the space. A rectangular rug can create a more formal look, while a round rug can create a more casual look. Other shapes, such as oval and square rugs, can add a touch of uniqueness to a space.

• Rectangular rugs are the most popular shape for area rugs. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings. Rectangular rugs are also a good choice for defining a space, as they can help to create a focal point in a room.
• Round rugs are a great way to add a touch of softness to a space. They are also a good choice for small spaces, as they can help to make the space feel larger. Round rugs can be used in any room of the house, but they are especially well-suited for bedrooms and living rooms.
• Oval rugs are a less common shape for area rugs, but they can be a great way to add a touch of uniqueness to a space. Oval rugs are also a good choice for spaces that are not quite square or rectangular. They can help to create a more balanced and harmonious look.
• Square rugs are a good choice for spaces that are square or nearly square. They can help to create a more formal look, and they can also be used to define a space. Square rugs are a good choice for entryways, hallways, and kitchens.

By choosing the right shape rug, you can create a more balanced and harmonious space. Consider the overall style of your room, the size of the space, and the function of the space when choosing the shape of your rug.

3. Material

When choosing an area rug, the material is an important consideration. The material will affect the durability, comfort, and price of the rug. Here are four key factors to consider when choosing the material of an area rug:

• Durability: Some materials are more durable than others. If you have a high-traffic area, you will need a rug that is made from a durable material, such as wool or nylon.
• Comfort: Some materials are more comfortable underfoot than others. If you want a rug that is soft and plush, you should choose a material such as wool or shag.
• Price: The price of an area rug will vary depending on the material. Natural materials, such as wool and silk, are more expensive than synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester.
• Allergies: Some people are allergic to certain materials. If you have allergies, you should choose a rug that is made from a hypoallergenic material, such as cotton or jute.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right material for your area rug. Here are some additional tips for choosing the right material for your area rug:

• If you have pets, choose a rug that is made from a durable material, such as wool or nylon.
• If you have children, choose a rug that is made from a stain-resistant material, such as nylon or polyester.
• If you live in a humid climate, choose a rug that is made from a moisture-resistant material, such as wool or jute.

4. Color

Color is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an area rug. The color of the rug will affect the overall look and feel of the room, and it can also be used to create a specific mood or atmosphere.

• Complementary colors: Complementary colors are colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. When placed together, they create a high-contrast effect that can be very eye-catching. For example, a blue rug would look great in a room with orange walls.
• Analogous colors: Analogous colors are colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. When placed together, they create a harmonious and cohesive look. For example, a green rug would look great in a room with blue and yellow walls.
• Neutral colors: Neutral colors are colors that are not on the color wheel. They include black, white, gray, and brown. Neutral colors can be used to create a more subdued look, or they can be used to highlight other colors in the room. For example, a gray rug would look great in a room with brightly colored walls.
• Patterned rugs: Patterned rugs can add a touch of personality to a room. They can be used to create a focal point, or they can be used to tie together different elements in the room. For example, a rug with a geometric pattern would look great in a modern room.

By considering the color of the rug, you can choose a rug that will complement the overall dcor of the room and create the desired mood or atmosphere.

5. Pattern

Pattern is an important consideration when choosing an area rug. The pattern of the rug can affect the overall look and feel of the room, and it can also be used to create a specific mood or atmosphere. For example, a rug with a bold pattern can add a touch of drama to a room, while a rug with a more subtle pattern can create a more relaxed and inviting space.

When choosing a pattern for your area rug, it is important to consider the style of your room and the overall dcor. If you have a traditional room, you might choose a rug with a classic pattern, such as a Persian or Oriental rug. If you have a more modern room, you might choose a rug with a more contemporary pattern, such as a geometric or abstract rug. You should also consider the size of the rug and the space in which it will be placed. A large rug with a bold pattern can overwhelm a small space, while a small rug with a subtle pattern can get lost in a large space.

Pattern can also be used to create a specific mood or atmosphere in a room. For example, a rug with a warm, inviting pattern can make a room feel more cozy and inviting, while a rug with a cool, geometric pattern can make a room feel more modern and sophisticated. By carefully considering the pattern of your area rug, you can choose a rug that will complement the overall dcor of your room and create the desired mood or atmosphere.

FAQs on How to Choose Area Rugs

When choosing an area rug, there are a number of factors to consider, including size, shape, material, color, and pattern. Here are some frequently asked questions about how to choose an area rug:

Question 1: What size rug should I choose?

The size of the rug you choose will depend on the size of the room and the furniture arrangement. A general rule of thumb is to leave about 12 inches of bare floor around the perimeter of the rug. However, you may want to choose a larger rug if you want to define a specific area in the room, such as a seating area or dining area.

Question 2: What shape rug should I choose?

The shape of the rug you choose will depend on the shape of the room and the furniture arrangement. Rectangular rugs are the most popular shape, but you may also want to consider a round, oval, or square rug. Round rugs are a good choice for small spaces, while oval and square rugs are a good choice for spaces that are not quite square or rectangular.

Question 3: What material should I choose for my rug?

The material you choose for your rug will depend on your lifestyle and budget. Wool rugs are durable and luxurious, but they can be expensive. Nylon rugs are stain-resistant and easy to clean, but they can be less comfortable underfoot. Polyester rugs are affordable and durable, but they can be prone to fading. Polypropylene rugs are water-resistant and fade-resistant, but they can be less comfortable underfoot.

Question 4: What color should I choose for my rug?

The color of the rug you choose will depend on the overall dcor of the room. Neutral colors, such as beige, gray, and white, can go with any dcor. Bold colors, such as red, blue, and green, can add a pop of color to a room. You may also want to consider the pattern of the rug when choosing a color.

Question 5: What pattern should I choose for my rug?

The pattern of the rug you choose will depend on the overall style of the room. Traditional rugs have classic patterns, such as Persian and Oriental rugs. Modern rugs have more contemporary patterns, such as geometric and abstract rugs. You may also want to consider the size of the rug and the space in which it will be placed when choosing a pattern.

Question 6: How do I care for my area rug?

The best way to care for your area rug is to vacuum it regularly. You should also spot clean any spills or stains as soon as they occur. Depending on the material of the rug, you may also need to have it professionally cleaned every few years.

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect area rug for your home. Area rugs can add style, warmth, and comfort to any room, and they can also be used to define a specific area or create a specific mood or atmosphere.

Summary of key takeaways:

• When choosing an area rug, consider the size, shape, material, color, and pattern.
• The size of the rug should be proportionate to the size of the room.
• The shape of the rug should complement the shape of the room.
• The material of the rug should be durable and easy to care for.
• The color of the rug should complement the overall dcor of the room.
• The pattern of the rug should complement the overall style of the room.

Transition to the next article section:

Now that you know how to choose an area rug, you can start shopping for the perfect rug for your home. Here are a few tips for shopping for area rugs:

Tips on How to Choose Area Rugs

Once you have considered the size, shape, material, color, and pattern of your area rug, you can start shopping for the perfect rug for your home. Here are five tips to help you find the perfect rug:

Tip 1: Set a budget

Before you start shopping, it is important to set a budget for your area rug. Area rugs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. By setting a budget, you can narrow down your search and avoid overspending.

Tip 2: Shop around

Once you have set a budget, it is time to start shopping around. There are many different places to buy area rugs, including department stores, furniture stores, and online retailers. By shopping around, you can compare prices and find the best deal on the rug you want.

Tip 3: Read reviews

Before you buy an area rug, it is important to read reviews from other customers. This can help you to learn more about the quality of the rug and whether or not it is a good fit for your home. You can find reviews on websites such as Amazon, Wayfair, and Houzz.

Tip 4: Consider the return policy

When you are buying an area rug, it is important to consider the return policy. This will give you peace of mind in case you are not happy with the rug when you receive it. Most stores have a return policy of 30-60 days. However, some stores may have a shorter return policy, so it is important to read the return policy before you buy.

Tip 5: Get professional help

If you are having trouble finding the perfect area rug for your home, you may want to consider getting professional help. An interior designer can help you to choose the right rug for your home and your budget.

Summary of key takeaways:

• Set a budget before you start shopping.
• Shop around to compare prices and find the best deal.
• Read reviews from other customers to learn more about the quality of the rug.
• Consider the return policy before you buy.
• Get professional help if you are having trouble finding the perfect area rug for your home.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

By following these tips, you can find the perfect area rug for your home. Area rugs can add style, warmth, and comfort to any room, and they can also be used to define a specific area or create a specific mood or atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Area Rugs

Choosing the right area rug for your home can be a daunting task, but it is important to take the time to consider all of the factors involved. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can find the perfect area rug for your home that will add style, warmth, and comfort.

Here are a few key points to remember when choosing an area rug:

• Consider the size, shape, material, color, and pattern of the rug.
• Set a budget before you start shopping.
• Shop around to compare prices and find the best deal.
• Read reviews from other customers to learn more about the quality of the rug.
• Consider the return policy before you buy.
• Get professional help if you are having trouble finding the perfect area rug for your home.

By following these tips, you can find the perfect area rug for your home that will add style, warmth, and comfort for years to come.