How to Select the Right Area Rug Every Time?
Buying an area rug can be a little bit like buying a car. It can be a daunting task, there is so much to consider and research that should be done prior to investing in an area rug. I know many of you are saying “but it’s just a rug” but is it really? Here are things that you need to consider: pile, durability, size, shape, patterns, textures, weight, cost, dye, practicality, manufacturing processes and, last but not least, beauty.
Start With A Floor Plan
What’s your arrangement? Choose a layout and measure for your rug based on the space you’d like to fill.
Here are some popular layouts that work for most spaces.
Legs on or off? That is probably the number one question we are asked when it comes to area rugs and furniture layouts. Whatever you choose be CONSISTENT!
Classic Layout
If your sofa and chairs are up against the wall, your rug should be large enough to fit under the front legs of all pieces.
Floating Layout
If your sofa and chairs float in the middle of the room, your rug should be large enough to fit under all four legs of each piece of furniture.
Bedroom Layout
In bedrooms, we like to extend a rug from the bottom 2/3 of the bed. Alternatively, you could also place two runners on each side or a single runner at the foot of the bed.
Dining Room Layout
For dining rooms, measure the length and width of your dining table and add 2 feet on each side. Most dining room tables require a rug that’s at least 8 feet wide.
Color
Color is the obvious next step here. If you already have a lot of color and pattern going on in your space, you might want to stick with a single-color rug, either a neutral or a shade which complements your existing furnishings. If you want a patterned rug with many shades, it’s generally easier to choose it first, and add in furniture and accessories that coordinate afterwards.
A rug will read as one of the largest pieces of “furniture” in the space, so be sure to take into account the tones in your flooring, walls and other fixed finishes when selecting. But don’t play it too safe: a boldly patterned or brightly colored rug can be just the ticket to lift a room to the next level.
Choose A Material That Works For You
How much traffic and use does the room get?
Hallways with high foot traffic need durable flooring, while bedrooms and dining room rugs are less susceptible to heavy wear.
The most important consideration in buying a rug is finding something that is going to please you every time you look at it.
Alright, happy shopping!
