How to Pick a Rug Like an Interior Designer
Posted On June 21, 2024Have you ever walked into a room and felt like something was missing? It may be too dull or a tad impersonal. The culprit is often the absence of a rug. Much like how a blank canvas yearns for a masterpiece, your floors crave the transformative power of a well-chosen rug.
Rugs aren’t just for living rooms anymore. From foyers and patios to bedrooms and bathrooms, these versatile floor coverings can add warmth, texture, and personality to any space. They truly are the unsung heroes of interior design.
However, learning how to choose area rugs can be overwhelming, especially considering the various styles, materials, and sizes.
This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to unlock the magic of rugs. We’ll delve into crucial factors to consider when choosing a rug for your space. You’ll be a master rug selector, able to choose pieces that complement your existing decor and elevate your space to a whole new level of style and comfort.
How to Choose a Rug Like an Interior Designer
Choose the Ideal Location and Purpose
When learning how to select a rug, you already know in what room it will be placed. Because of this, there are several factors about the space to consider before you begin your search. For instance, will it be placed in high-traffic areas? Can it endure moisture in the bathroom or kitchen? Is it going to be near an exterior entrance? Identifying these key points will help you pick an area rug most suitable for the space.
A rug in a frequented area must be extra durable to withstand constant wear and tear. Meanwhile, if the rug is placed in a room where moisture is a concern, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, you’ll want to consider materials that dry quickly and are resistant to mold and mildew.
For pieces placed near an exterior area, the rug should be easy to clean and able to handle dirt, debris, and occasional moisture. You may place a heavy-duty doormat outside the entrance to reduce dirt and moisture before they reach your rug.
Other factors to consider include pile height, color, and pattern. Low-pile rugs are easier to clean and better suited for high-traffic areas, while pieces with a high pile give a luxurious feel and can trap dirt but show wear more easily. Meanwhile, busy patterns can help hide dirt more effectively than plain designs. The same goes for darker colors, which are more forgiving than lighter tones.
Select the Right Material
Once you’ve understood how the rug will be used in your home, you can begin to narrow down the appropriate materials. After all, you want to select a rug that will hold up to your lifestyle, and selecting the right material is a key consideration in how to choose a quality area rug.
Are you looking for a family-friendly rug suitable for kids and seniors? Do you have pets in the household? Are you working on a tight budget? These questions can influence what type of material you’re looking for.
Wool rugs are durable, resilient, and soft, making them suitable for high-traffic areas due to their natural resistance to stain. Cotton rugs are lightweight and easy to clean, although they are less durable than wool, making them ideal for casual spaces or children’s rooms.
Silk rugs are known for their luxurious sheen and, due to their delicate nature, are best suited for low-traffic areas or as hanging wall decorations. Synthetic rugs, such as those made from polyester or nylon, offer affordability and durability, making them excellent for those looking to add comfort and beauty to their living spaces without breaking the bank. Natural fiber rugs made from jute, sisal, or bamboo add an earthy texture but are less soft and harder to clean.
Pick the Perfect Rug Dimensions
The size is crucial for achieving a balanced look when learning how to pick an area rug. In the living room, for instance, the rug should be large enough to fit under all major furniture pieces or at least accommodate the front legs of the sofa and chairs. Living rooms are commonly 8×10 feet or larger, so consider these dimensions when selecting your rug.
For pieces placed in during rooms, the rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond the table edges to ensure the chairs can be pulled out comfortably. A dining room is slightly larger than a living room, typically covering 9×12 feet of living space.
Meanwhile, in the bedroom, the rug underneath the bed should extend beyond the sides. Imagine stepping out of bed in the morning and sinking your feet into a plush surface. A common guideline is to leave at least two feet of floor space around the edges of your bed, creating a visually pleasing frame. Remember to consider the bed size, whether twin, full, queen, or king, and the room dimensions.
Balance Quality and Affordability
When exploring how to choose area rugs, budget is a crucial factor that influences both the quality and style of your purchase. Start by setting a realistic budget based on your finances and the specific needs of your home. High-quality rugs can be a significant investment as they offer better durability and longevity, helping you save money in the long run.
There is also a relationship between price and materials. For instance, wool rugs are more expensive but are a worthwhile investment because of their durability and natural stain resistance. On the other hand, synthetic rugs like those made of polyester or nylon are more affordable but still offer good durability and ease of cleaning, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
The price range for rugs can be broken down into three categories:
- Inexpensive ($200 to $500)
- Moderately Priced ($500 to $1,500)
- Expensive but Good Value (above $1,500)
While it may be tempting to choose inexpensive rugs, going around that price point may mean sacrificing quality and opting for a short lifespan. Meanwhile, moderately priced rugs expand your choices exponentially, offering a wide range of options, from luxury rugs to designer pieces. You can also opt for custom rug services to fit your specific needs.
Lastly, while splurging on expensive rugs can be absurd for most people, in the world of luxury rugs, it can be considered a bargain, especially when they can be passed down as heirlooms for generations to come.
Own Your Space: Choose a Rug Like a Pro
Learning how to choose a rug can dramatically transform your home, bringing warmth, style, and cohesion to your living spaces. By considering the location, material, size, budget, and specific needs of your household, you can select a rug that enhances your decor and meets your practical needs.
Remember, your living space is a blank canvas that reflects your personality and lifestyle. A well-chosen rug is your chance to express your style and create a space that truly feels like yours. Armed with these tips, you can confidently navigate the world of rugs and ensure you pick one you’ll love for years.
So, go out there, explore your options, and own your space. Choose your rug like a pro and watch how it transforms your home into a stylish and inviting haven.
Get more interior design tips by visiting the Cyrus Artisan Rugs blog.
