Janine & Michael's Floor Talk Blog | Floor Decor CT Blog

Tips for Decorating with Rugs

Written by Janine & Michael | Wednesday, November 23, 2022

Rugs are amazingly versatile floor coverings when it comes to decorating. Have you tried adding them to your home decor?

If you haven't, yet are interested in doing so, here are our tips for decorating with rugs.

Before that, let's review why area rugs are so versatile.  

What Makes Rugs So Versatile?

Rugs have a long history in home decor.

From a basic perspective, having a woven or tufted fabric-based covering on the floor means softness, comfort, and warmth underfoot. It also absorbs sound, creating a sense of quiet intimacy for conversations. That means rugs are ideal for hardwood floors, LVT floors, tile floors, and any other hard surface.

A rug is portable; you can roll it up and easily use it in another space. Or, store it in a closet if you're in the mood for a different rug and a fresh look.

It protects your floors from high traffic abuse and makes a room easier to clean since rugs are amazingly effective at catching dust bunnies and reducing allergens in the air. All you need to do then is vacuum!

If you're looking to define a space - say an inviting conversation area with chairs and a table - look no further than a rug. This works for an open space as well as an enclosed one. The next time you're in a hotel lobby, check out how area rugs carve out distinct areas.

With a rug, you can have fun with color, pattern, and size.

  • Pull colors from one room to harmoniously tie them together with the elements of another room.
  • Use those elements as a visual pathway throughout your home including hallways and stairs with runners.
  • Add an unexpected touch of texture and color to draw attention to an area.
  • Let your personality shine!

You can even use your light-colored rugs to add a spark of lightness to dark spaces.

Imagine the fun you can have! 

3 Tips for Decorating with Rugs

When it comes to actually decorating with rugs, don't feel intimidated by the choices. Here are tips for thinking through your options and settling on rugs you'll enjoy in your space.

1. Selecting the Right Size Rug

As much as size matters when it comes to a rug, don't forget that you have flexibility. If you don't like it in one area, you can easily use it in another.  

In thinking about size, think bigger rather than smaller. For example, in a bedroom you'll want a rug that extends beyond the bed so you have something soft and snuggly to sink your toes into.

For a conversation area, larger means you can fit more of the furniture onto the rug.

If you aren't sure, measure out the sizes you're considering to help you visualize your options. Look at the size of the border you leave around the rug; do you want it to be bigger or smaller? 

Depending on what type rug you are considering, you may have set sizes to choose from, or you can create a custom sized rug from broadloom carpet selections.

>> See Custom Area Rugs

2. What Role Will the Rug Play in Your Decor?

It helps to understand what primary purpose you'd like your rug to play in your decor. Is it meant to coordinate with your existing decor? Do you want to create a strong focal point for your room?

A rug is like art. It can be inspiration for the rest of the room, it can accentuate your design style, or it can be subtle and private. You get to decide.

Depending on what role you'd like the rug to play, you may be looking for a strong pattern in the same or contrasting colors. You may prefer less obvious patterns and focus instead on a pop of color.

(You'll find beautiful selections in the Paradiso Area Rug Catalog.)

3. Design Considerations When Decorating With Rugs

Given how versatile and portable rugs are, you should feel free to experiment. Consider different shapes and sizes.

Don't be afraid of colors and patterns especially if they work with what you already have in your space. Colors can unify rooms so why not try to coordinate?

You may find it helpful to use accent colors from cushions, wall hangings and artwork to determine your rug's color scheme.

At the same time, you may have a room that warrants being totally different. A rug can reinforce those differences.

Resources for Decorating with Rugs

For visual inspiration, check out these articles about decorating with rugs:

>> What is an Area Rug and Why Use it in Interior Design?

>> Tips for Decorating with Rugs

>> 8 Area Rug Dos and Don'ts

>> The Importance of Rugs and How to Use Them

>> 7 Reasons Why Rugs are Essential Home Decor

>> Necessary Tips for Decorating Your Home with Area Rugs

Also check out How to Buy an Area Rug You'll Love. 

Ready to Decorate With Rugs In Your Home?

If you are, we would love to assist you.  

If you haven't already, be sure to explore the Paradiso Area Rug Collection catalog; it consists of 55 pages filled with beautiful area rug patterns, styles, and colors. You can also visit our showroom located in Orange, Connecticut.

Don't hesitate to let us know of any questions in the comments or contact us.

We look forward to helping you.

Thanks for reading,

Janine & Michael