Wanna take your space to the next level? Trying to round out the look? You don’t need us to tell you that you can’t just slap any old rug on a room and call it a day. (But sometimes a reminder is nice?)
When it comes to rugs, the right size and style can mean the difference between hopelessly haphazard and perfectly polished. But how exactly do you choose? Let’s jump in.
Where Rugs Go... and Where They Don't
It might seem like a silly question: Are rugs appropriate for every space? They can be—it's up to you! An area rug can provide warmth, coziness, and stylish interest (e.g., color, pattern, texture, etc.). The right sized rug can also provide a guide on where to place furniture and define spaces. Here are some considerations for rugs on different types of flooring:
Wood floors
Wood floors are a great asset in a home—typically easier to clean and care for, as well as timeless. Adding a rug over your hardwood floors helps to anchor a room with clear space definition. It also provides padding beneath your feet for greater comfort, as well as absorbs sound while reducing white noise.
Tile floors
Tile floors are practical and durable, but they can be so cold! Not to mention slippery. Unless you've got radiant heating beneath those tile floors, add a rug for warmth and extra padding over those hard surfaces. A rug will also help reduce slipping hazards. Make sure you have a rug pad underneath to keep your rug from sliding out of place.
Carpeted floors
It may seem redundant: a rug over a carpet? But it's not totally taboo to layer a rug over a carpet. As with other types of flooring, a rug helps to define a space. Try to avoid using a patterned rug over a patterned carpet to avoid clashing. Keep the textures varied as well.
5 Go-To Rug Rules for Your Space
Wondering how to pull it all together with the right rug? Keep these five rules in mind.
1. Size matters
Consider the space you're filling with the rug. Is it an entire room like your bedroom or living room? Your rug should always be at least 6"-8" wider than your sofa or sectional. Look for sizes in 8'x10' and 9'x12'. If you're looking for something to fill a hallway, opt for a narrow runner. For a bathroom or kitchen, you'll likely need something smaller, like a 2'x3'.
2. Play with contrasts
If your sofa has a more tailored look, choose a rug that's more modern and geometric. What about the textures in your room? Is there wallpaper? What type of fabric is your couch? Keep it varied in the style of rug to complement the rest of the room.
3. Consider space function
Low pile, power loomed rugs are perfect for busy, high traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. Textured hand-knotted rugs for living rooms provide a cozy atmosphere—soft, durable, and perfect for walking on during colder months.
4. Don't slip and slide
Don't forget a rug pad! It keeps your rug in place, extends the life of your rug, and protects your floors. A good rug pad also adds a layer of cushion and sound protection.
5. Keep it clean
The key to keeping your rug long lasting and beautiful? Vacuum regularly and spot clean anytime there's a mess or spill. Consider an indoor-outdoor rug for versatility and functionality. These work well in dining rooms where spills are more likely to occur. If you need to store a rug, make sure it's freshly cleaned, treat with moth and pest repellant, roll up tightly, and wrap completely. Store vertically in a dry space.
Bottom Line
Rugs are an essential item to anchor and warm a space, providing decorative interest and fabulous comfort. Adding a rug or changing your existing rug can transform a room. Brook Furniture Rental has an expansive collection of rugs that can be incorporated throughout your home. We boast a host of versatile rugs in many colors, patterns and sizes. Finding one to complete the look of your home will not be hard.
