5 min read

How to Choose the Perfect Rug for Your Home

When it comes to transforming a house into a home, the right rug can make all the difference. Not only do rugs add warmth and texture to a room, but they also serve as a piece of art for your floor, setting the tone for the entire space. The perfect rug can complement your interior décor, anchor your furniture, and even make a bold statement all on its own.

With an extensive array of available options, choosing the right rug can feel overwhelming and we’re here to help. Providing practical advice and simple tips, we’ve mapped out a complete guide to help you find the perfect rug for your home.

Rug Types

Choosing the right rug starts with understanding the various types available and how they can complement your living space. Rugs come in various shapes, sizes, materials and designs, each offering unique benefits and aesthetics to fit a range of interior styles and practical needs.

Area rugs

These are the most popular type of rugs and are available in standard sizes, such as 5x8 ft, 8x10 ft, and 9x12 ft, making them versatile for any room; from living rooms to bedrooms. They can define seating areas, add colour and texture, and create a feel of cohesion in open-plan spaces.

Runner rugs

Runner rugs are perfect for hallways, kitchens and other narrow areas, where they provide style and comfort. They can also help to protect your flooring in high-traffic zones and make tapered spaces feel more welcoming.

Round rugs

Perfect for creating the illusion of more space, round rugs draw the eye in an arc through the room, making smaller areas appear more spacious. In addition, round rugs are ideal for placement under round dining tables or in entryways.

Materials matter

The fibre of a rug plays a crucial role in its feel, durability and maintenance. Wool rugs are renowned for their softness and longevity, making them a popular choice for high-traffic areas.

Cotton rugs offer a more casual look and are easy to clean, making them ideal for kitchens and children's rooms. Synthetic fibres, such as polypropylene are often stain-resistant and budget-friendly.

Assessing Your Space

Before selecting your rug, it’s essential to take a step back and assess the space where the rug will live. The right rug can enhance your room's overall aesthetic and bring harmony to your living area, but size, scale and layout play pivotal roles in making the right choice.

Measuring up

Start by determining the size of the rug needed. This often depends on the room's dimensions and the furniture arrangement. In a living room, for example, a larger rug can anchor the seating area, with all furniture legs resting on the rug. Alternatively, a smaller rug placed in the centre of the room or under a coffee table can provide a focal point of interest.

Room layout

The layout of your room influences the shape and placement of your rug. For a dining area, ensure the rug is large enough for chairs to remain on the rug when pulled out. In a bedroom, a rug should extend beyond the sides and foot of the bed, creating a warm and inviting space when you step out of bed.

Functionality

Consider the rug's purpose in the room. Is it to define a space, add warmth and comfort, or create a sense of cohesion in an area? The function will guide your choice in terms of material, thickness and durability.

For instance, a plush, shaggy rug might be perfect for a bedroom, while a flatweave, low-maintenance rug is better suited for the dining room.

Aesthetics vs. practicality

While the look of the rug is important, practical aspects should not be overlooked. Light-coloured rugs can make small rooms appear larger but may require more maintenance. Darker rugs hide wear and tear better but can make a room feel smaller and more contained.

Consider the balance between aesthetics and practicality to ensure your rug complements your lifestyle as well as your décor.

Style and Colour Considerations

Selecting the right style and colour for your rug is a significant decision that can influence the overall mood and atmosphere of your room. This choice should reflect your personal style while harmonising with your existing décor.

Complement your décor

Look at the colours and styles in your current space. A rug doesn't need to match everything in the room, but it should complement the existing tones, patterns and textures. A vibrant or patterned rug can add a splash of colour and interest to an area whereas a plain, neutral rug can create a sense of calm and balance.

Set the tone

Consider what mood you want to create. Warm colours like red, orange and yellow can make large, sparse rooms feel cosier and more intimate. Cool colours such as blue, green and purple have a calming effect and often make small rooms appear more spacious. Neutral colours offer flexibility and versatility, easily adapting to future trend changes in décor.

Patterns and texture

The pattern of your rug can significantly affect the room's appearance. Bold, expansive patterns can make a statement and become the focal point of the room, while small, intricate designs can add texture and depth without overwhelming the space.

Consider the lighting

Remember that colours can look different depending on the room's lighting. Natural daylight shows the truest colour, while incandescent lighting brings out warm tones and yellows. If possible, check rug samples in the room where they will be placed and at different times of the day to ensure the colours align with your expectations.

Practical Aspects

While the aesthetic appeal of a rug is essential, practical considerations are equally important to ensure that your rug not only looks good but also suits your lifestyle and the functionality of the space.

Durability and traffic

The amount of footfall in the area where your rug will be placed is a critical factor in choosing the right type. High-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms and kitchens are better suited to rugs that are durable and easy to clean.

Materials like wool, cotton and polypropylene are known for their resilience and ability to withstand wear. Consider the rug's pile as well; low-pile or flatweave rugs tend to be easier to maintain and clean, than shaggy, high-pile rugs

Maintenance and cleaning

Think about the maintenance requirements of the rug. Natural fibres like wool are durable and easy to clean. Synthetic fibres are also easy to clean and maintain making them great choices for areas prone to spills.

Delicate materials such as silk and viscose provide a luxurious feeling underfoot but are difficult to clean and are therefore better suited for low-traffic areas such as bedrooms.

By thoughtfully assessing your space, understanding the importance of material and design, and considering the practicalities of everyday use, you'll be well-equipped to select a rug that aligns with your lifestyle and décor.