Decorating with area rugs is one of the quickest changes you can make to update and revitalize your room. If you agree, but have no idea how to choose the perfect rug for your room, let me give you a few suggestions to help.
- Investment? Decide how much you want to invest, both financially and emotionally, in the rug. Do you want a rug that is a long term investment that will have a permanent place in your home? Or are you someone who prefers to change the look of your room frequently. Plan to spend less money on a rug that will be changed often.
- Size? When choosing a size, I recommend leaving at least three feet of space between the edge of the rug and the wall. This space allows any inward-opening doors to open and close easily. But for a dining room, measure the size of the table and add at least four feet on all sides. This extra size allows the chairs to be pulled out without moving off the rug.
- Pattern or solid? If you have lots of pattern in your furniture or drapes, I recommend a rug with little or no visible pattern. If the opposite is true, a patterned rug will bring life to the room.
- Color? Remember your color theory basics when picking a rug. If you want your space to appear spacious, choose a lighter color. A darker color will make the room seem more intimate.
- Neutral? If your room receives a lot of use or foot traffic, a patterned or “dirt” colored neutral rug is more practical than other choices.
- Focal point? Don't choose a rug with a central pattern if you don't want that pattern to be a focal point of the room. Your eye will be drawn by the pattern and other focal points may appear secondary.
- Separate? If your space is large enough for two rugs for separate conversation spaces, make certain the color harmonizes. Notice I said “harmonize,” because they don't have to match exactly. I would recommend varying the rugs in size or shape for visual interest.
- Texture? Remember that rugs can also add texture to your room. But many heavily textured rugs, like sisal rugs, stain easily and the stains may be permanent. They may not be the best choice for a family space.
There are so many choices for area rugs out there, it may take a while to find the perfect one. But it's a great excuse to shop 'till you - or your husband - drop. Once you find the one you love, move it in and - instant transformation!
