Area rugs are a great way to add colour, comfort and warmth to your home décor. They not only give you a cozy feel underfoot but also define areas of your room and create focal points. However, choosing the perfect area rug can be a daunting task as it is a significant investment and can set the tone for your entire room décor. The right rug can enhance your living room, bedroom or dining room; while a wrong choice can make space look cluttered or out of sync. Here are some tips to help you find that perfect area rug:
1. Determine the Size of your Rug
Before you start shopping, it is essential to measure your room and determine where and how you want to place your rug. A large rug can make your living room seem grand while a small rug can accentuate your bedroom’s luxurious look. When selecting the right size of area rug, make sure that it is proportional to the size of your room and furniture. Generally, the rug should be large enough to fit under the front legs of your furniture with some space on the sides. However, if you have small rooms, choose a rug that will cover most of the floor of your room for a uniform look.
2. Consider the Purpose of your Rug
Before you choose the specific colours, textures, and patterns for your area rug, it is crucial to determine the purpose of your rug. Are you looking to enhance your room décor or add warmth and comfort underfoot? Is it for a high traffic area or a low volume space? This information is necessary to help you select the appropriate material, texture, and durability of a rug. For high traffic areas like hallways, consider using durable flatweave or low pile rugs, while a plush wool or synthetic fiber rug is great for a cozy living room.
3. Assess your Room Décor
Your area rug should blend well with your room décor and not clash with other furniture. If you have lots of patterns in your room, choose a solid rug that will stand out without overpowering. Conversely, if your space is made of solid furniture, you can choose a patterned rug to create a focal point in your room. When selecting colours, go for a hue that complements your furniture and other wall décor. If you are unsure which rug works best for your room décor, consider choosing a neutral rug like grey, beige, or white, which will blend seamlessly with almost any style.
4. Take Care of Your Allergies
If you have allergies or sensitivities, it’s advisable to choose an area rug that does not trap dust, allergens or mold. Wool and natural fiber rugs are hypoallergenic and do not release volatile organic compounds, which removes the risk of triggering an allergic reaction. Wool is also naturally flame resistant and lasts longer without causing allergies or respiratory issues. If you are prone to allergies, you might also want to avoid using rugs with shaggy or high-pile designs, which can hide dust and allergens.
5. Set a Budget
Area rugs come in different price tags, which means you can select one that suits your budget. However, it’s hard to get a good quality rug that ticks all the boxes without spending a reasonable amount of money. Determine your budget before starting your search and stick to it when purchasing a rug. It’s worth investing in a high-quality rug as it lasts longer and retains its beauty for years to come.
6. Shop Around
Once you’ve determined your sizing, purpose, budget and décor style, it’s time to shop around for that perfect area rug. There are plenty of designs and colours available in the market, including traditional, modern, Moroccan, Bohemian and more. Take your time to browse through different styles, textures, and materials to make sure the rug fits your style and needs. Also, be open to suggestions from salespeople or seek the assistance of an interior designer.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect area rug is a significant investment, and the right rug can bring warmth and comfort to your home décor. Stick to these tips and decide whether your rug is for underfoot comfort or to complement your room décor, and then determine size, texture, material, and colour according to your preferences and budget. If you follow these tips, you’re sure to find an area rug that will add that perfect touch to your home.
