4 Tips for Choosing an Area Rug

When it comes to home décor, there’s one space that often gets overlooked: the floor. It’s the foundation for your home — literally — so why not dress it up with an eye-catching rug?

The right area rug can totally transform your space, giving the eye a focal point that pulls a room together. Where changing your flooring could cost thousands (and quickly become outdated), switching out your rug is a budget-friendly and low-effort way to get in on the latest design trends.

But how to choose the right rug? From what size rug you need to which pile height is best for your home, follow these tips and let your floor be your canvas.

1. Keep Foot Traffic in Mind

When choosing a rug, consider where it will be placed and how much foot traffic it will see. For entryways, hallways, kitchens or dining areas, you may want to choose a darker-colored rug or one with a pattern to help hide stains, dirt and everyday wear and tear. If you’re placing the rug in a room that sees less use, a lighter-colored rug could make the space feel open and airy.

Lifestyle should also play a role in the rug you choose. If you have kids or pets, consider buying a washable rug that allows you to easily clean up scuffs and messes.

2. Find a Style You Love

Choosing between a bold pattern or a nice neutral? Your furniture can help you decide. If the pieces you own are mostly neutral, a bold, patterned rug can give your room an eye-catching focal point. If you have patterned or colorful furniture, a neutral, solid rug can add a soothing foundation.

You can also get in on the maximalist trend, mixing patterns for a fun and eclectic look. If you choose to mix patterns, you can create balance by juxtaposing smaller patterns with larger ones.

3. Size Things Up

A rug that’s too large can make a space feel cramped, but one that’s too small can make décor look sparse. So how you do choose a rug that’s just right?

As a rule of thumb, area rugs should be at least two feet shorter than the largest wall in your space. Your rug should also be large enough to fit partly or completely underneath major pieces of furniture, such as couches, beds or tables. To make your space feel more open, leave at least one foot of space between the walls and the edges of your rug.

Still at a loss for sizing your rug? Try marking out the size with painter’s tape to get a better idea of how a rug will fit into your space.

4. Pick a Pile

A rug’s pile height is the length of its fibers — and which pile you choose will all depend on where your rug is placed.

Low-pile, nubby rugs are a nice addition to areas with high foot traffic or frequent spills, like kitchens, dining areas, children’s rooms and hallways. Rugs with shorter pile are not only easier to clean, but they also serve a practical function, helping prevent slips. Meanwhile, high-pile rugs, like shag rugs or fur, can add a luxurious touch to bedrooms and living rooms. Just keep in mind that high-pile materials are more prone to collect pet hair or dirt.

Ready to get decorating in a house that’s all your own? Get in touch with a Starlight representative to find out more about our homes.

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