When it comes to decorating your home, choosing the right accent rug can make a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your space. Whether you want to add a pop of color, texture, or pattern, an accent rug can help tie a room together and make it feel more complete. But with so many styles, materials, and sizes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect accent rug for your home.
Size Matters When Choosing an Accent or Area Rug
Before you start shopping for accent rugs, measuring the space where you want to place the rug is essential. A rug that’s too small can look awkward and out of place, while a rug that’s too large can overwhelm the room. Generally, it’s best to choose a rug slightly smaller than the space it will occupy. This will create a border around the rug, which can help define the area and make it look more intentional.
How do you choose the size of an area or accent rug?
Choosing the right size of an area rug depends on several factors, including the size and shape of your room, the placement of furniture, and the overall look you want to achieve. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right size of an area rug:
- Determine the placement of your furniture: Decide where you want your furniture to be placed in the room. For example, if you have a seating area, ensure all the furniture legs are on the rug, or at least the front legs of the sofa and chairs.
- Measure the size of your seating area: Measure the length and width of the area where you want to place the rug and take note of any obstructions, such as doors or windows.
- Choose the rug size: Generally, you’ll want to choose a rug that’s large enough to fit all your furniture within its borders. A 5′ x 8′ or 6′ x 9′ rug may be sufficient if you have a smaller seating area. An 8′ x 10′ or 9′ x 12′ rug may be more appropriate for larger spaces.
- Leave some space around the edges: When placing your rug, leave a few inches of space around the edges of your furniture. This will create a flooring border around the carpet, which can help define your seating area.
- Consider the shape of your room: If your room is square or rectangular, a rug that’s the same shape will work well. Consider using a round or oval rug to soften the angles if your room is irregularly shaped.
Remember, these are just general guidelines, and the right size of an area rug ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your space. Take the time to measure your room, consider your furniture placement, and choose a rug that feels right for your home. Here are some general guidelines for choosing the right size accent rug for each room of your home:
Choosing an accent rug for the living room
Choose a large area rug for the living room to fit all the furniture. Ideally, the rug should extend at least 6-12 inches beyond the edges of the furniture. This will help anchor the furniture and create a cohesive seating area.
Choosing an area rug for the dining room
Choose an area rug for your dining room that’s large enough to fit the table and chairs on it. The rug should extend at least 18-24 inches beyond the table’s edges. This will give you enough space to pull out chairs without catching them on the edge of the rug.
Choosing an accent rug for the bedroom
Choose an area rug for the bedroom large enough to fit under the bed and extend out on either side. This will create a cozy landing spot for your feet when you get out of bed in the morning.
Choosing an area rug for a hallway or entryway
Choose an accent rug for your hallway or entryway long enough to fill the space but not so wide that it blocks the path. A runner rug is a good choice for these areas, as it will create a visual pathway and help guide traffic.
What are the most commonly used materials for area rugs?
Choosing the right material for an area rug can significantly impact its look, feel, and durability. Here are some common materials to consider:
Wool:
Wool is popular for accent rugs because it’s soft, durable, and easy to clean. It’s also a natural insulator, which can help keep your home warm in the winter.
Cotton:
Cotton rugs are lightweight, easy to clean, and come in various patterns and colors. They’re a good choice for high-traffic areas, as they can be machine-washed.
Jute:
Jute rugs have a natural, organic look that can add warmth and texture to a room. They’re durable and eco-friendly but can be prone to shedding and staining.
Synthetic fibers:
Synthetic rugs, such as nylon or polyester, are often more affordable than natural fibers and can mimic the look of wool or cotton. They’re also stain-resistant and easy to clean, making them a good choice for homes with kids or pets.
How do you choose the right style area rug?
The style of your accent rug should complement your home’s overall style while adding a touch of personality and flair. Here are some popular styles to consider:
Traditional:
Traditional rugs often feature intricate patterns, such as floral or paisley designs, and can add a touch of elegance to a room. Choose a traditional area rug for homes with classic or formal decor.
Modern:
Modern rugs often feature bold colors, geometric shapes, or abstract designs and can add a pop of color and texture to a room. Choose a modern accent rug for homes with contemporary or minimalist decor.
Bohemian:
Bohemian rugs often feature bold colors, intricate patterns, and a mix of textures, such as wool and cotton. Choose a bohemian-style area rug for homes with eclectic or boho-chic decor.
Natural:
Natural rugs, such as jute or sisal, have a neutral, organic look that can add warmth and texture to a room. Choose a natural-style accent rug for homes with a rustic or coastal vibe.
Oriental:
Oriental rugs often feature intricate patterns and rich colors and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a room. Choose an oriental-style area rug for homes with traditional or global-inspired decor.
What color should I choose for an accent rug?
When choosing an accent rug, consider your room’s color palette and how the rug will fit in. You can choose a rug that complements the existing colors in your space, or you can use the rug as a starting point to build your decor around. Here are some tips for choosing the right color rug:
Neutral colors
Choosing neutral colors for an area rug, like beige, gray, or ivory, can create a calm, understated look that complements various decor styles.
Bold colors
Choosing an accent rug with bold colors such as red, blue, or green, can add a pop of color and personality to a room. Just make sure the color complements the other colors in your space.
Patterned area rugs
Choosing patterned rugs such as stripes, chevron, or geometric designs, can add visual interest and texture to a room. Just make sure the pattern doesn’t clash with other patterns in your space.
How do you clean an area rug?
Finally, it’s critical to consider the maintenance of your accent rug. Some materials and styles require more upkeep than others. Here are some tips for keeping your rug looking its best:
- Vacuum your rug regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Rotate your rug periodically to prevent uneven wear.
- Spot-clean spills immediately to prevent stains.
- Have your rug professionally cleaned once a year to keep it looking fresh.
Choosing the right accent rug for your space can take your decor to the next level. By considering your rug’s size, material, style, color, and maintenance, you can find a rug that looks great and meets your family’s needs. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect accent rug to tie your room together and make it feel complete.
