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“Choosing a rug is one of the most difficult tasks when furnishing a home. A rug of the right size defines different areas, the perfect colour shapes the entire atmosphere of the room, while its texture can bring warmth to the interior.

The perfect colour

By looking around the room, you can easily identify its dominant colours, patterns and surfaces. When the interior already feels highly colourful, choose a plain or neutral rug. Alternatively, select a complementary colour that creates the perfect foundation for the overall atmosphere of the space.

If you are set on a patterned rug, it is worth starting the furnishing process by choosing the rug first, then designing everything else around it. As it will be the largest furnishing item in the room, its base tones should reflect the surrounding interior. Consider the colour of the walls, fitted furniture and even your favourite sofa. Be bold and choose a rug with a large-scale pattern or a striking colour, as it can easily elevate the atmosphere of the entire room.

The right texture

Texture is often treated as a secondary consideration when buying a rug, even though it deserves far more attention. Introducing different textures into a living room can create richness and depth, while a single rug may define the atmosphere of the entire space. Take a careful look around your home and consider the materials of your existing furniture and decorative objects. A leather sofa can pair beautifully with a soft, long-pile rug, just as smooth velvet upholstery can work perfectly with a sisal rug.

When choosing a texture, also consider how easy or difficult the rug will be to clean. A long-pile shaggy rug, for example, can require a great deal of care.

The ideal size

As a general rule, the rug should be large enough to extend beneath the seating area of the sofa without overwhelming the room. Ideally, the sofa, coffee table and even the armchairs should all sit on the rug. As a practical compromise, however, it is enough for only the front legs of the sofa to rest on it.

In a small living room, where the furniture is naturally placed closer together, it is better to choose a smaller rug that helps define a more intimate area. By contrast, in a large living room where the furniture can appear to float within the space, a large rug provides a stronger visual foundation and brings the entire arrangement together.

For a medium-sized room where the sofa sits directly against the wall, the previously mentioned medium-sized rug is the best choice. Only the front legs of the sofa, the coffee table and possibly the front legs of the armchairs should rest on it.

The shape of the rug

A square rug naturally works well in a square room, although a round rug can also be an excellent choice. In a long, narrow room, however, it is best to choose a rectangular rug. When positioning it, follow the orientation of the room. Avoid trying to create a playful effect by placing the rug sideways or, even worse, diagonally. The result is more likely to look untidy than creative.

Where will the rug be placed?

It is very important to consider the function of the space where the rug will be used. In a high-traffic area, avoid choosing a long-pile shaggy rug, as its fibres will wear out quickly. Securing the rug is also important, preferably with a non-slip underlay.

Too many rugs can make a room feel cluttered, so avoid overdoing it. There is no need to place rugs everywhere or cover the floor continuously.”

Source and owner: Homeinfo, Author: Brigitta Nagy
With contributions from Jamal Abdul Naser
Owner of Kabiri Carpet
Budapest, 12 July 2019.