Out of all furnishings and décor, rugs may seem like an insignificant portion of your design process – in fact it is really the opposite. There are many benefits of rugs that will not only enhance your design, but also aide in practical solutions as well. In this blog post we are going to cover all you need to know about rugs so that you will be an expert going into your future projects. We will go over the benefits of incorporating rugs into your design, how to choose the right shape/sizing, and give you a few extra nuggets of expertise for making it to the end. Ready to become a rug expert?
Benefits of Rugs in Your Home
Comfort on Harder Floors
If your home has wood or tile floors, it can be a little uncomfortable and cold walking around on such hard surfaces. By adding a rug to your living room or runner in the hallway, you not only add a softening layer to those floors but also keep your toes nice and warm with a layer of insulation. This is not just a physical aspect either. When incorporating a rug into your spaces it brings a calming, cozy feeling that everyone will enjoy.
Sound Absorbing
We all know once furniture is added to your home the echoing off the walls is automatically reduces. Well, one of the most practical benefits of rugs is their ability to absorb sound. Perfect to stop echoing in that designated space, as well as blocking out noise from any noise from rooms underneath.
Connecting Designs for a Cohesive Design
Another wonderful benefit of rugs is their ability to connect separate spaces. Create a cohesive look within your home by incorporating different types of rugs that share a central design or colour theme.
Brightening Without Adding Light
If you struggle with lighting in your home, a rug might just be the fix to brighten your space. Find where you feel is particularly dark and opt for a light coloured rug to help make your space more inviting. We are not saying that you need to choose the bright white rug either – play around with light neutrals tones or pale shades that compliment your colour scheme.
Establishes Spaces in an Open Concept Layout
Open concept layouts have been growing popularity since the 1970’s and are heavily sought out for in the current market. Although, we have found it common that people struggle with how to differentiate specific spaces within this style. Just as rugs can connect spaces, they can also divide a space just as easily. Zone off areas in these spaces and anchor your furniture by using a rug, The rugs help to set clear boundaries and transform one big room into distinct living areas.
Easy Way to Add Textures
One of the rules that we follow consistently in Interior Design is to include a variety of textures within your home. You can create layers of texture between your blankets, pillows, furnishings, and yes – rugs as well! Bring depth and contrast to your home by laying rugs with interesting textures.
How To Choose the Perfect Rug
Since a rug has the power to bring a space together instantly, it is very important that you choose the one that works properly with your space and furnishings. There are a seemingly infinite number of choices when it come to anything from size to material type to designs – this is where it can get overwhelming. But not to worry because that is exactly where this next section will come in handy to help you narrow down your choices. Let’s go through them room by room, shall we?
Bedroom
Get a restful night’s sleep by adding an extra layer of comfort with a rug! Having a rug in your bedroom is perfect for dampening the sounds from rooms below you, and is nice not to have to step on the cold floor in the morning. The ideal area rug for a bedroom is square or rectangle that extends far enough on either side to fit under your bed. You want enough space on either side of your bed as a ‘walkway’ – this is typically 20 inches or more. Rugs should cover around one-third of the bed’s base in smaller rooms. Choose pleasant, soothing colours for a calming effect in the bedroom.
Living Room
Adding a rug in a living room, creates an extra layer of comfort and acoustic value. It will make your room feel more spacious, but make sure that you have help when lifting bulky furniture. Ideally, if you have the space, a rug should fit fully underneath your furniture and extend a bit on either side. However, if you are working with a smaller area, it is suggested to choose a rug that either can fit the front legs of your couch on top or have the edge nestled right up to the couch. Since a rug helps define the usable space, the smaller your rug – the more cramped the room will feel. Pick just the right size for your space to make the room feel spacious and cozy.
Dining Room
When having guests over for dinner, you want them to feel as comfortable as possible. By placing a rug under your dining table, you complete the look of your dining area design. Start with your table’s size and shape to begin your search for an area rug. Your rug should extend past your table by at least 24 inches on all sides to ensure that even when your dining chairs are pushed-back they will still be on the rug. Your rug should be much larger than your dining table, especially if your furniture is ornamental.
Our Expert Advice
Now you know more about why rugs are essential to the design process, and a bit more into how to choose the perfect rug for different rooms, it’s time for us to pass along some extra expert advice that will have your guests in awe of your finished look.
Establish A Focal Point
You need to decide whether your area rugs will be the focal point to your design or not. Some rugs, especially the ones with bold patterns and colours, can be a statement piece. Be mindful with the rest of your design to decorate the room accordingly with subtle patterns and accent colours. You do not want to overwhelm your space with multiple statement pieces.
Materials To Look For
Much like all products in our lives, you want to make sure that you are picking ones with the correct materials to suit your lifestyle. Especially since rugs can get pricey. For example; wool and polyester rugs are ideal for high-traffic areas in your home, they are also perfect if you have pets or children. These rugs are easy to clean and provide a warm atmosphere in your home. Another example: washable rugs are perfect for areas that need to be regularly cleaned, such as the dining room.
What’s The Perfect Thickness
Now that you know a couple of materials to look out for when shopping, let’s talk about the different piles. Again, high-traffic areas you will want something easy to clean, which we say opt for low-pile rugs that have shorter fibers and loops. For areas in your home that you are looking to have more comfort, consider a high-pile rug like a shag or Moroccan. They have longer, looser fibers that are super comfortable.
Rug Pads
You should add rug pads to your cart when picking up your new rugs because they not only protect from trips/falls, but also act as additional cushion to protect your floors from heavy furniture. All around a sound investment to look into.
So, you’re officially a rug expert now! There’s much more to rugs that meets the eye. They have multiple benefits that make your space more inviting and comfortable. There will be the perfectly sized rug out there to fit your space, we know you’ll find it! Let us know if you ever need some help, our team at Studio K would love to help plan your design projects!