Area rugs can be an investment both visually and financially. They can make or break a room and instantly change the way a space feels. The rug shown here ties together the eclectic room with its neutral color and widely spaced pattern. It is also a flatter weave, which flows seamlessly into the surrounding floor space.
Choosing the right type of rug is as much about the way it looks as the way it feels underfoot. It’s also important to address its practicality in your home.
Some things to consider when shopping for area rugs:
- What type of lifestyle do you lead? Are you having little children through the house? Do you have pets? A white shag carpet is probably a bad idea in those instances.
- Where will the rug be located, and what purpose will it serve in that room? Is it a focal point in a formal living room or a place people can sit on while playing games in the family room?
- What is your overall style? Look to complement the style of the space. An area rug doesn’t need to match everything in the room, but it should work with the tones and textures of the existing furnishings.
- How easily is it cleaned? An expensive antique carpet is going to have to go to a professional at least once a year if placed in high-use rooms, and is usually too cumbersome to stick in the trunk of your car. Does it need to be picked up, or can you drive it to the dry cleaner?
- What feels best underfoot? If you prefer a softer feel, then natural fibers such as wool and cotton are for you. If you want a lush, deep, pile, synthetic fibers can give you a similar feel. Organic fibers such as jute and sisal can be surprisingly soft underfoot but don’t give the same physical warmth as a woven rug. It truly is a taste preference when it comes to feel.
- Timelessness. Does your style change with the seasons? Will that rug work with next year’s decor?
- Are you going to be moving? Going larger or smaller means the rug might not work in a new space. I’ve seen a lot of people trying to fit giant area rugs into much smaller spaces. Folding a rug under isn’t really a great style choice.
- Cost. Spending a bit more on a high quality area rug may be more worth it to you in the long run than buying mediocre-quality carpets at a bargain store. However, if you like to change things up a lot, less-expensive area rugs are probably a better bet. You can score amazing area rugs at unbelievable prices online.