Area rugs are a great way to show off your style and personality in your space. They’re more affordable than wall-to-wall carpets and perfect for framing or defining particular areas. In this blog post, we will go over the do’s and don’ts of area rug decorating. We’ll also share tips on keeping your area rugs looking their best for years to come!
List of Contents
AREA RUG DOs and DON’Ts
DO Brainstorm In Your Space
You can think a rug is the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen, but it will be a flop if it doesn’t work in the context of the room. First and foremost, you should take a good look at the area or space in which you are placing the rug. Consider:
- Size of the room
- Furniture placement
- Overall aesthetic
- Room’s purpose
Once you have a better idea of what you’re working with, it’ll be easier to narrow down your options.
The rug you choose should play off the colors in your space, but it doesn’t have to match them exactly. You also want to ensure the rug size is appropriate for the room or area in which you’re using it. Too small, and it will look like an afterthought; too large, and it will overwhelm the space.
DO Pick a Mood
When you’re rug shopping, it’s essential to think about the mood you want to create in your space. Do you want it to feel cozy and inviting? Relaxing and serene? Energizing and exciting? Once you have a general idea of the feeling you’re going for, you can start narrowing down your options.
Some rugs are better suited for certain moods than others. For example, a hand-woven area rug with intricate patterns offers a bohemian or global vibe, while a sleek, low-pile rug has a more modern appeal. A plush, shaggy rug creates a cozy, homey feeling, and a light-colored area rug can make a room feel airy and spacious.
If you’re not sure what kind of mood you want to create, it’s helpful to browse through different area rug options and see which ones speak to you.
DO Identify a Color Scheme
In addition to thinking about the mood you want to create, it’s also important to consider the color scheme of your space. You don’t necessarily have to match the rug precisely to the other colors in your room, but it should complement them.
For example, if your walls are light blue, you might want to choose a rug with similar tones. Or, if you have a neutral-toned space, you could go for a rug with a pop of color to add some visual interest.
When it comes to choosing a color, there are no hard and fast rules. Ultimately, you should go with whatever speaks to your personal style and taste. However, if you’re having trouble narrowing down your options, it’s helpful to consider the following:
- If you want the area rug to be a focal point: Choose a color that contrasts with the other colors in your space.
- If you want the area rug to blend in: Choose a color similar to the other colors in your space.
- If you want to make a statement: Choose a bold or unique area rug that will really stand out.
If you’re not sure what colors will work well together, you can always consult a color wheel. This helpful tool shows you which colors are complementary and which ones should be avoided.
DO Select a Size
Area rugs come in all shapes and sizes. When selecting an area rug size, you should first consider the size of the room or area you’re using it in. You want to choose a rug just the right size for the space. Instead, you want to find something that is proportional and will help frame your livable area.
For example, if you’re using the area rug in a living room, you’ll want to ensure there is enough space around it for people to walk comfortably. In a dining room setting, the area rug should be large enough to fit under all four legs of the dining table and chairs. And in a bedroom, you’ll want to leave at least 24 inches of space around the bed.
DON’T Be Afraid to Layer
Area rugs are a great way to play with color and texture. Layering area rugs creates a uniquely dynamic look and can help define different areas within a larger room.
For example, if you have a large living room, you could use an area rug to delineate the seating area from the rest of the space. Or, in a bedroom, you could layer two different area rugs—one at the bedside and one at the foot of the bed. Not only does this look stylish, but it also makes the space feel cozier and more inviting.
If you’re going to layer area rugs, it’s important to select pieces that complement each other in terms of color, style, and texture. You don’t want the area rugs to clash or compete. Instead, they should work together to create a cohesive look.
DON’T Forget about Rug Pads
If you want your area rugs to stay in place and remain in good condition, then you need to invest in rug pads. Rug pads provide traction and grip, which prevents slipping, bunching, and wrinkling. They protect your area rug from furniture legs, dirt, and other debris. Not to mention, rug pads help prolong the life of your area rug by preventing premature wear and tear.
There are different types of rug pads available, so it’s essential to choose one that is suited for your specific area rug and flooring type. For example, if you have hardwood floors, you’ll want to select a rug pad that won’t damage the surface.
Similarly, if you have a delicate rug, you’ll want to choose a rug pad that is soft and won’t scratch or damage the fibers.
DON’T Neglect Regular Maintenance
You should vacuum rugs regularly to remove dirt, dust, and other debris. You should also have them professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months to remove deep-seated dirt and grime. When spills happen, cleaning them up quickly is important to prevent staining. For best results, blot the area with a clean, white cloth and use a mild detergent to remove the stain. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area, as this can damage the fibers.
DON’T Ignore Your Furniture
When decorating with area rugs, it’s important to consider your furniture. You want to ensure that the rug complements your existing pieces and doesn’t make the space feel cluttered or cramped. In general, you should leave about 12 inches of bare floor around the perimeter of the rug. This will help create a sense of balance and ensure that your area rug is the star of the show.
Area rugs are a great way to add color, texture, and style to your home. When selecting a rug, be sure to keep these dos and don’ts in mind. With a little bit of planning, you can find the perfect rug for your space.
Related Reading: Stain-Resistant Area Rugs: What’s the Best Material?
If you are in the market for an area rug. We have a wide variety of colors, styles, and materials to choose from. And, if you need help selecting the right area rug for your space, our team of experts at Dublin Carpet is always happy to assist.
