Area Rugs
Although we might not pay them much heed as we trample them day after day, the area rugs in our rooms help set the tone and style of a room, add years to the flooring underneath and help home decorators bring together disparate elements to make one unified whole.
Purchasing an area rug shouldn't be forgotten until a room is essentially complete. Waiting until paint and/or wallpaper is chosen, furniture is ordered and pictures are hung might be a big mistake. There are generally far fewer choices in area rug designs than there are paint colors, wallpaper patterns and upholstery choices. Therefore, many rug experts suggest choosing an area rug first or early on in the decorating process so that its design is built into the overall decor of the room.
Area Rug Size Choices
When choosing an area rug size, it's important to know the size of your room. Don't get a rug that's too small or large (experts suggest leaving a border of 18-36 inches around the edge of the rug), but be flexible. Furniture doesn't have to be completely on or off the rug, but too much furniture grouped on a rug might make the area rug look strangely small.
Since area rugs come in stock sizes like 5' x 7' and 8' x 10', it's important to consider that when choosing an area rug. Some larger rooms might benefit from two smaller area rugs rather than one rug that is just too small for the larger proportions of the room.
Color Tips
If you want a small room to look larger, choose a light-colored area rug. If your large room needs some cozying, choose a warm, dark color to add warmth and drama to the room.
Prices for area rugs vary greatly, and prices go up or down depending on the quality of the fabric you choose. Synthetic area rugs are inexpensive, but won't provide the kind of wear that can withstand the abuse that pets, children, time and traffic can provide. Better choices are wool, cotton, silk and other natural materials.
Experts suggest always using a rug pad under your area rugs. The pad will help protect the flooring underneath, and can add years to the life of your area rug. Use a rug specifically designed for area rugs and not wall-to-wall carpeting, which has a slick side.
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