Area rugs are an essential element of interior design, adding color, texture, and warmth to any room. However, there are several common rules that people follow when selecting and placing area rugs, which can limit their design options. In this article, we will discuss twelve area rug rules and how to break them.
1. The Rug Must Match the Room
One of the most common area rug rules is that the rug must match the room. While it is essential to consider the overall design and color scheme of the room, don’t be afraid to choose a rug that contrasts or adds a pop of color to the space.
2. The Rug Must Be Large Enough to Fit All Furniture
Another rule is that the rug must be large enough to fit all furniture in the room. While this can create a cohesive look, it can also make the room feel cramped and cluttered. Consider using multiple smaller rugs or layering rugs to create a more interesting and dynamic look.
3. The Rug Must Be Placed in the Center of the Room
Many people follow the rule of placing the rug in the center of the room. However, this can be limiting and may not work for every space. Consider placing the rug off-center to create a more asymmetrical and visually interesting design.
4. The Rug Must Be Placed in a Symmetrical Pattern
Symmetry is another common rule in interior design, but it can be broken when it comes to area rugs. Consider using a rug that has an irregular shape or pattern to create a more organic and natural look.
5. The Rug Must Be Placed Under the Coffee Table
Another rule is that the rug must be placed under the coffee table in the living room. However, this can limit the design options and make the space feel cluttered. Consider using a rug that extends beyond the coffee table or using multiple smaller rugs to create a more layered look.
6. The Rug Must Match the Curtains
Matching the rug to the curtains is another common rule, but it can be broken to create a more eclectic and unique look. Consider using complementary colors or patterns to create a cohesive design that is still visually interesting.
7. The Rug Must Be Placed on a Hardwood Floor
While area rugs are often used on hardwood floors, they can also be used on carpet or other flooring materials. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and materials to create a more layered and interesting look.
8. The Rug Must Be Neutral
Neutral colors are a popular choice for area rugs, but don’t be afraid to use bold and bright colors to add a pop of color and personality to the space.
9. The Rug Must Match the Style of the Room
While it is important to consider the overall style of the room when choosing an area rug, don’t be afraid to mix and match styles to create a more eclectic and unique look.
10. The Rug Must Be Placed Horizontally or Vertically
Another rule is that the rug must be placed either horizontally or vertically in the room. However, diagonal placement can create a more dynamic and visually interesting design.
11. The Rug Must Be the Focal Point of the Room
While area rugs can be a focal point in the room, they don’t have to be. Consider using a rug that complements the other elements in the room and creates a cohesive design.
12. The Rug Must Be Placed in a Rectangular Shape
Another common rule is that the rug must be placed in a rectangular shape. However, rugs come in a variety of shapes, including round and irregular shapes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes to create a unique and visually interesting design.
How to Break the Rules
Breaking the area rug rules can create a unique and visually interesting design in your home. Here are some tips on how to break the rules and create a more eclectic and unique look with area rugs.
1. Use Different Sized Rugs
Instead of using one large rug that fits all the furniture in the room, consider using multiple smaller rugs. This can create a more layered and visually interesting look, especially in larger rooms.
2. Layer Rugs
Layering rugs is another way to create a more interesting and dynamic look in your home. Try layering a smaller rug over a larger one to add texture and depth to your space.
3. Play with Color
Don’t be afraid to use bold and bright colors in your area rugs to add a pop of color and personality to your space. You can also mix and match colors and patterns to create a more eclectic and unique look.
4. Mix and Match Styles
Mixing and matching styles is another way to create a more eclectic and unique look in your home. Try using a traditional rug in a modern space or a modern rug in a traditional space to add visual interest.
5. Use Unconventional Shapes
Using unconventional shapes, such as round or irregularly shaped rugs, can create a more organic and natural look in your home. These shapes can also help to break up the rigid lines and angles in a room.
6. Play with Placement
Don’t be afraid to experiment with placement when it comes to area rugs. Try placing the rug off-center or at an angle to create a more asymmetrical and visually interesting design.
In conclusion, while there are several common area rug rules, they can be broken to create a more unique and visually interesting design in your home. By using different sized rugs, layering rugs, playing with color and mixing and matching styles, using unconventional shapes, and experimenting with placement, you can create a space that reflects your personal style and personality. Remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to break the rules!