Tips for Decorating with Area Rugs
If you’re not sold on the idea of wall-to-wall carpeting but still love a soft weave under your feet when you get out of bed in the morning, there’s a perfect compromise—area rugs! These accent pieces come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and textures, making it easy to find a rug that fits your style and space.
Feeling a little overwhelmed by the choices? Not sure where to start? Let our Design Studio experts help guide the way. Below are some of their best tips for decorating with area rugs—and once you get into the groove, you may just get hooked.
Always Use a Rug Pad
This is the most important rule of all—don’t skip the rug pad. Many homeowners see it as an unnecessary expense, but rug pads are essential for safety and longevity. They keep rugs from slipping, improve stability underfoot, and help prevent accidents.
Rug pads also extend the life of your area rug. Rugs wear from the bottom up due to friction between the rug and the floor. The less movement underneath, the less wear on the fibers. Rug tape is not recommended, especially on hardwood floors, as it can damage the finish.
Size Really Does Matter
Measure first—always. Buying the wrong size rug is one of the most common decorating mistakes. A rug that’s too small can make a room feel cramped, while one that’s too large can overwhelm the space.
For larger rooms, allow eight to twelve inches of visible flooring around the edges of the rug. In seating areas, it’s common for the front legs of sofas and chairs to sit on the rug while the back legs remain on the floor.
If the rug is placed under a coffee table or end table, all four legs should sit on the rug to keep the surface level. For bedrooms, make sure at least two feet of rug extends beyond each side of the bed for comfort and balance.
In dining rooms, measure the table and add 24–30 inches on all sides so chairs remain fully on the rug when pulled out.
A helpful visualization trick: use 8.5” x 11” sheets of paper taped at the corners to outline the rug’s footprint on the floor. This makes it easier to picture how different sizes will look before buying.
Avoid Common Placement Mistakes
Buying a smaller rug to save money often backfires. Undersized rugs create the illusion of a smaller room and can make spaces feel awkward and unfinished.
Also, avoid placing rug corners at doorways or along main walkways. Corners in high-traffic areas create tripping hazards. Make sure people naturally walk across the rug, not just over the edges.
Use Rugs to Set the Mood
Rugs play a major role in defining a room’s atmosphere. Light colors and small patterns make spaces feel open and airy, while darker colors create warmth and coziness.
Geometric patterns lend a modern feel, while traditional or floral designs bring a classic or vintage touch. Choose patterns and colors that complement your walls, furniture, and lighting.
Get Creative With Shapes and Layers
Area rugs don’t have to be rectangular. Circular rugs work beautifully under round dining tables, while hexagonal or custom-cut rugs can add personality and visual interest.
Layering rugs of different sizes or textures is another way to create depth—especially in rooms with neutral color palettes.
Choose the Right Material
Material matters. Natural fibers like wool are durable, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly. Wool rugs are also relatively easy to maintain.
Jute rugs are another popular natural option, offering durability and a casual, organic look. Cotton and silk rugs can be beautiful but may not hold up as well in homes with kids or pets.
Synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and olefin are common as well, though some may fade more easily or be harder to clean depending on quality.
If you’d like help choosing the right rug, flooring, or finishes for your home, visit our Design Studio, explore our floor plans, or contact us with any questions. We’re always happy to help!
