How to finish from the beginning: Artfully designing with area rugs

Last week while watching HGTV’s “House Hunters” I was perplexed when a future home owner refused to choose one of the proposed homes simply because it had tile and not carpeted floors. Talk about not seeing the forest for the trees.

Sure you could rip out the tile and add carpet. But if you hate waste as much as I do, then why not seek a simpler, less costly solution.

Area rugs.

Colorful and fun area rug by Angelo: HOME

The concept of adding an area rug is so easy, some people forget just how much it can do for your room. But designers know best.

“There’s good reason area rugs should carpet a room. They’re practical, providing cushion, comfort, and warmth over a concrete, tile, or wood floor. But they also provide artistic value to a room’s design. Considered artwork for the floor, which acts as the frame, size does matter — and it’s often a big concern for the homeowner unsure of how to create that well-balanced space.

So designers say start with the area rug first. From its design, you can choose colors to paint your walls and find throw pillows and paintings to complete the decor.”  – Jackie Dishner HGTV “Choosing the Best Area Rug for Your Space”

Here’s how to start:

1. Measure your room and the furniture. Traditionally, an area rug should fit your coffee table and at least the front two legs of your sofa or chair. But if you want to add the unexpected to your room, try an area rug in an angle.  If your room is large, you might want to consider two area rugs to define the space.

Add a little something unexpected by Angelo: HOME

2.. Look for quality. For high traffic areas, you’ll want invest in the highest quality you can afford. Wool area rugs wear the best. The daily wear of busy feet can quickly wear out an inexpensive cotton rug. Nylon or a synthetic blend are also great choices.

Malabar Area Rug (5’3″x7’7″) is made with 100% wool. By Kalora. Shown with the California Sectional by GuildCraft.

3. Look at color and pattern. Bold patterns on a small area rug can make a small room appear larger. If you are a little shy about the boldness, bathrooms are a great place to experiment with color.

Bold colors bring this room to life. Halton Area Rug (5’x7.5′) is shown here with the Brody Sectional by Jonathan Louis.

4.  Add texture. An area rug is a great way to add texture to your room. If you are inclined to natural elements, jute is a great choice for it’s neutral tone and casual look. But it is also tough on the feet, so you might want to consider layering a softer, smaller wool area rug over the jute for luxury and warmth.

Natural fibers of a jute area rug. Shown with the Summer Hill Collection by Universal.

5. Unify your room. Use your area rug to inspire the rest of your room. Tie in accent pillows, blankets, and drapery to complete your room. Your room will look thoughtful and planned all because you started with an area rug!

All the colors are grounded by this Bombay Area Rug (5’x7′) by Powell. Shown with the Selma collection by Jonathan Louis.

Watch the short video below to view more fun and exciting area rugs available.

Choosing the Best Area Rug for Your Space by Jackie Dishner
http://www.hgtv.com/walls-doors-and-floors/choosing-the-best-area-rug-for-your-space/index.html

About Terri Dux

Besides being a writer, passionate blogger, and photographer for HomeWorld Furniture, Terri is also co-owner of a local t-shirt craft company. When not watching her favorite TV channel, HGTV, Terri likes to sew, vermicompost, and thrift at neighborhood garage sale