Next, let’s chat aesthetics… the fun part of choosing an area rug! Rugs influence the palette and personality of an entire space, which is why I often select the rug early when designing a room. I always try to keep contrast in mind. For example, if your room is composed primarily of solid textiles (upholstery, furniture, drapery, etc.), then a patterned area rug may insert the perfect juxtaposition. Another perk? Patterned rugs easily hide stains and dirt in high-traffic areas. If your furniture or drapery is bold or patterned, maybe a neutral or solid rug would look best. Traditional patterns always feel timeless. Subtle patterns create a serene foundation. Bold patterns energize a space and become the focal point.

Another good tip? Use your room as a starting point… pull an existing color out of the space and repeat that in your area rug. For example, if your drapery has blue ticking stripes, try to repeat that same blue in your area rug. If you have a large scale painting that is primarily green hues, match that color story in your rug for a thread of cohesion.

A little color (or lack thereof) goes a long way and can really affect the overall mood of a room. That’s another thing to consider… lighter colored area rugs make a space feel larger and more open, while rich dark colors create more definition, which results in a moody, cozy, or intimate space.