How to Pick an Area Rug
When you decide to pick an area rug for a room, you're doing more than adding a floor covering. You're changing the look and feel of your the room you're adding it to. A rug can add a lot of color and character to a room, but you want to get a rug that you'll be happy with for a long time.
An area rug is capable of changing the color scheme and overall look of a given room. It can help to blend the look of your furniture with that of your flooring or walls, and it can really add a some spice to a bland room. If you're considering an area rug, here are some things to consider.
First, you should consider the size of the rug you intend to purchase This will depend on the size of the room and what you want to place on it. For best results, do a full measurement of the room so you know exactly how much space you have to work with. Do you want the area rug in the middle of the room? Do you want to place it flush against the wall? What furniture do you want to place on it?
You will want a rug that will compliment your room, not stand out. Neutral colors, browns and beiges will fit in almost any room, but don't use too many neutrals in a room that's very colorful. A dark color can even out a bright room, and a bright color can liven up a dark room. Make sure you choose colors that fit the overall look of the room.
Choose a pattern. Much like colors, patterns can really add to the look of your room. They can also detract quite a bit if they don't match properly. Consider trying to match patterns or color with your walls or furniture. A similar colored and shaped pattern to a chair or couch with a different border color can add a nice touch of variance.
Finally, make sure you choose a texture that fits your room. An area rug is probably not a good match for a room which already has thick carpet. They can work well with thin carpet, though, as long as the colors don't clash. Try to create as little texture contrast as you can. It can be jarring stepping off a thick shag carpet onto a polished hardwood floor. Consider something thinner in those cases.