A new area rug is one of the easiest ways to spruce up the look of a bedroom or hallway, and we’ve got some expert tips to help you choose the right area rugs for your home.

Area rugs provide a practical layer of cushioning and comfort over a wood or tile floor while functioning as a design element that can complete the look of the space. Using an area rug to create a balanced, harmonious space is simple if you  keep a few basic guidelines in mind.

Choosing the Right Area Rug Size

One of the easiest ways to make sure you’ve chosen the right area rug is to pick one that is large enough for the space. In general, you should stick to area rugs that will reach to within at least two feet of a wall and can fit under all of the main pieces of furniture in the space. 

You should, however, keep other design considerations in mind. For example, in a large living space, you may want to use two area rugs in order to create two conversation areas. Or, in a bedroom, an area rug might look great extending from under the foot of the bed, even if it doesn’t reach other pieces of furniture in the room. 

Choosing the Right Area Rug Colour

Once you know what size area rug you need, it’s time to think about the colour. You should try to find a rug that will harmonize well with the design of the room–or one that will provide a nice contrast instead. Well-chosen area rugs can tie a room together, creating a harmonious and visually appealing colour palette. 

Area rugs in shades of red and blue are among the most popular. Blue rugs can make a room feel more airy and refreshing without upstaging any of your other design elements. Red rugs, on the other hand, are ideal for making a space feel warmer and cosier. While they do draw more attention, red rugs can fit with almost any colour scheme. Pink rugs should not be overlooked either. In both fashion and home design, pink works in a variety of colour combinations and adds a dash of liveliness to any look.

If you’re worried about colour matching or about an area rug taking the focus away from your favourite pieces of furniture, then you should consider a rug in a more natural hue, such as ivory, brown, or beige. Natural colour rugs are highly versatile and can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and even in outdoor spaces. They’ll harmonize well with most design schemes. 

Patterns: Yes or No?

One of the best things about area rugs is that you don’t have to limit yourself to one solid colour. Area rugs come in numerous patterns, such as geometric patterns, traditionally inspired patterns, diamond patterns, and zigzags, that can be used to liven up the feel of any room

You can use a patterned area rug to make a strong style statement or as a complement to other patterns and designs in the room. If you want your rug to really stand out, then go with brighter colours and bolder designs. If you’d prefer your area rug to blend in but still add a touch of visual intrigue, then choose more neutral colours and softer designs.

At the end of the day, when choosing an area rug for your home, you should stay true to your unique style. Keep the above tips in mind, but remember to have fun along the way.