Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Area Rug

Choosing the right area rug can feel like a big decision, but it doesn't have to be complicated. With over three decades of experience in both manufacturing and selling floor rugs, we've learned a thing or two about finding the perfect piece. This guide is designed to give you the insights you need to select a rug that is beautiful, functional, and fit for your purpose.

An area rug is one of the most powerful tools in interior design. If you can only add one item to transform a room, a well-chosen rug makes the biggest impact. It anchors your furniture, adds warmth, and ties your decor together.

Here are the key things to consider when buying a new area rug for your home.

5 Essential Tips for Selecting Your New Area Rug

1. Find the Right Rug Size

Getting the scale right is crucial. An oversized rug can overwhelm a room, while a rug that's too small can make the space feel disjointed. A good rule of thumb for a room-sized rug is to subtract about 3 feet from the length and width of the room. This leaves a border of bare floor, which can make the space appear larger.

2. Choose Your Colours Wisely

Your new rug should complement your existing decor. For a cohesive look, choose a rug that features at least two of your room's accent colors. This simple trick helps tie everything together seamlessly.

3. Don't Forget Comfort

You'll be living with your rug every day, so make sure it feels as good as it looks. Consider the texture and pile height. A soft, comfortable rug is especially important for living rooms and bedrooms where you might be sitting or walking barefoot.

4. Understand Rug Care and Maintenance

Before you fall in love with a rug, check its cleaning requirements. Different materials require different levels of care. Make sure you choose a rug that fits your lifestyle, whether you need something highly durable for a busy area or a more delicate piece for a low-traffic room.

5. Match Your Rug Style

The good news is that most rug styles are surprisingly versatile. While pattern is important, color often plays a bigger role in how the rug fits your space. Don't be afraid to mix styles—focus on finding a color palette that harmonizes with your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Rug

What Should I Buy First: The Rug or the Drapes?

We always recommend starting with the rug. Think of your area rug as the foundation or "soul" of your room. It's often the piece with the most pattern and color, so it's easier to find fabrics, drapes, and paint that match the rug than the other way around. Once you have the perfect rug, you can pull colors and design elements from it to guide the rest of your decor choices.

How Do I Use Rugs in an Open-Plan Living Area?

Rugs are excellent for defining different zones in a large, open-plan space. To create a harmonious look, use rugs that complement each other in style and color. However, avoid using two rugs of the exact same size, as this can visually divide the room in half. Using different sizes adds variety and interest while maintaining a connected feel.

Sizing Guidelines for Dining Rooms and Hallways

• Dining Room Rugs: When placing a rug under a dining table, ensure it's large enough for all chair legs to remain on the rug, even when the chairs are pulled out. A good guideline is to have at least 24 inches (60 cm) of rug extending beyond the edge of the table on all sides.
• Hallway Runners: A runner should be about 4 inches (10 cm) narrower than your hallway to create a balanced border. For length, aim for 18 to 24 inches (50 to 60 cm) shorter than the hall itself. Most importantly, ensure the runner is wide enough for you to walk on comfortably with both feet.