Creating a comfortable and visually appealing home starts with the right flooring. While hardwood, laminate and tile floors offer durability and easy maintenance, they often lack the cosy luxury of carpet. To achieve the best of both worlds, many homeowners opt for area rugs. If you timber or tiled flooring but still crave the warmth of carpet, an area rug might be the perfect solution. Here are three essential factors to consider before purchasing an area rug for your home.
1. Size Matters
The first consideration when buying an area rug is its size. The ideal size depends on the dimensions of the room and the amount of furniture in it. A small rug in a large room can create an illusion of spaciousness, while a large rug in a smaller room can make the space feel cramped.
Think about how your furniture will interact with the rug. If you plan to place only a portion of your furniture on the rug, choose one that is slightly wider than the furniture piece. For rooms without furniture, ensure it’s prominent enough to stand out but not so large that it hides the flooring. For instance, in a hallway, the rug should be slightly narrower than the doorway to create a balanced look.
Choosing the right size is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. It should complement your furniture arrangement and the room’s layout, enhancing the overall appearance of your home.
2. Shape and Style
The shape of your rug is another critical factor. Rectangular ones are typically best for rectangular rooms and should be oriented so that the longest side runs parallel to the longest wall. This arrangement helps create a harmonious flow in the room.
Circular or oval rugs offer more versatility and can be used in various spaces. Consider these shapes for bathrooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, entryways, family rooms, game rooms, and hallways. They can add a touch of elegance and soften the room’s edges, making the space feel more inviting.
When selecting the shape, think about the room’s function and layout. The right shape can highlight specific areas, such as a cosy reading nook or a stylish dining area, enhancing the room’s design and functionality.
3. Material and Type
The purpose of the rug plays a significant role in determining the best material and type for your home. Are you looking to highlight a particular piece of furniture, tie a room together, or add comfort to an otherwise hard surface? Once you decide on the rug’s function, you can choose the appropriate type from various options.
- Tufted Rugs: These are the most common rugs on the market. Made by punching wool or other materials through a backing, tufted rugs are durable and available in a wide range of patterns and styles.
- Knotted Rugs: These are either hand or machine-made, come in various patterns and styles. Hand-knotted rugs typically offer more unique designs and color options than machine-knotted ones.
- Woven Rugs: One of the oldest types, woven rugs are created on a loom and come in loop-pile or cut-pile constructions. They offer a traditional look and feel.
- Embroidered Rugs: Crafted using age old techniques, embroidered rugs feature hand stitched patterns on a linen or cotton backing, adding a touch of craftsmanship and uniqueness to your home.
Choosing the right material and type ensures that the rug meets your needs, whether it’s durability for high traffic areas or a luxurious feel for a cosy bedroom.
Keeping Your Rug Clean
Regardless of the type you choose, maintaining its cleanliness is vital. Regular vacuuming helps keep your rug looking its best, but for a thorough clean, consider hiring a professional rug cleaning service like those offered by us. Taking proper care will extend the life of your rug and keep your home looking fresh and inviting.
