How to Choose the Perfect Area Rug
An area rug can completely transform a room. It can add warmth, softness, color, and that cozy, finished feeling we all love. But choosing the right one can feel a little overwhelming. How big should it be? What color? And why are there approximately one million options?!
Don’t worry I’ll be breaking it down.
Start With the Size
When in doubt, go bigger!
One of the most common rug mistakes is choosing a rug that’s too small for the space. In a living room, your rug should ideally be large enough for at least the front legs of your furniture to sit on it. If your room allows, having all of the furniture comfortably on the rug creates an even more cohesive look.
For a dining room, make sure the rug extends far enough beyond the table that chairs can still sit on the rug when pulled out.
And in a bedroom? A rug placed underneath the bed can make the entire space feel softer and more intentional.
Think About Your Lifestyle
A gorgeous white, high-pile rug might look dreamy…but if you have kids, pets, or a tendency to spill your coffee, you may want to rethink it.
Look for washable, low-pile, or patterned rugs in high-traffic areas. A little bit of pattern can actually be your best friend because it helps disguise everyday life.
Let Your Rug Add Personality
Your rug doesn’t have to match everything in the room. In fact, it shouldn’t!
Use it as an opportunity to bring in a color, pattern, or texture that complements the rest of your home. If your furniture is fairly neutral, a patterned rug can add some fun. If you already have lots of pattern, a simple textured rug might be just the thing.
One Last Tip
Before ordering, use painter’s tape to outline the rug dimensions on your floor. It’s a simple little trick that can save you from realizing your “perfect” rug looks more like a postage stamp once it arrives.
The perfect area rug isn’t necessarily the trendiest one; it’s the one that fits your space, works for your everyday life, and makes you smile when you walk into the room.
