Workshop
Choosing the right rug for your space – and how to style it
Of all the design elements you can use to style your home, rugs are one of the most powerful – and the most versatile. The right rug can inject some luxury and personality into a space, create texture and warmth, help to reduce noise, define various zones within an open-plan space and even tie a decor scheme into a cohesive whole.
A good rug is a major purchase so we suggest you take some time to understand exactly what you need before hitting the shops. Think carefully about colour, size and texture in relation to your space so you can invest in a rug you’ll adore for years to come.
texture
Never underestimate the importance of texture when choosing a rug. A room decorated with the right combination of textures can feel so much more inviting and one perfect rug can be the final touch that brings it all together. When selecting a rug for your home, consider the finishes of your existing furniture. If you have a leather sofa, a hand-woven or hand-tufted rug will soften the masculine aesthetic. If you have velvet lounge furniture, consider adding even more glamour to the room by using a soft cotton rug with a velour finish. If you have a neutral room and sofa, add a textured, loop-pile rug in a similar hue to add subtle interest.
layering
Rugs aren’t just for covering up bare floors – they can be a design feature, too. If you have white or wooden floorboards, layering two jute or sisal rugs can look amazing. Different shapes work best, such as a rectangle and a circle, or a circle and an oval; have a play and see what works in your space. Another way to layer rugs is by placing them on top of carpet to add depth and dimension. If you have a low, cut-pile carpet, a textured or heavily woven rug can really enhance the room’s look.
home zone
Rugs are ideal for zoning a room into distinct areas, especially in open-plan homes where living and dining spaces often blend into one another. To ensure the space is balanced it is important to choose rugs that complement, rather than compete with, each other.
statement style
A rug can be a great focal point for a room and a good starting point for its decor. If you fall in love with a rug in a bold colour or pattern it is a good idea to repeat that colour in other places around the room so your rug becomes part of a cohesive design. Cushions in the same colour or pattern will help tie the space together, as will a piece of artwork or furniture featuring one or two hues from the rug.