If you’re in the market for new area rugs for your home, there’s a lot to consider. It seems simple to just go out and buy some, but you may come home perplexed without having purchased anything. With so many styles, colors, and sizes to choose from, picking the one that’s right for your home may feel a little overwhelming.
Before you start shopping, take a moment and ask yourself a few questions. You might find it saves you some time and energy.
#1: Size – What Size is Best?
This might seem like an obvious question, but you’d be surprised how many homeowners launch their search without really knowing what size they’re looking for. The best way to solve this problem is to measure the area you want it to cover.
They often fall into size categories by width, measured in feet. Say for example you’re looking for a small one for your home’s entryway; you’ll want to look at some between three and five feet wide. This will save you from browsing through dozens of 10-foot wide rugs.
If it is going to be placed under something, like a dining room table or an entertainment center, be sure and measure a little extra space – about two feet or so — around the object. This will provide a boundary area, so to speak, to visually separate the object from the rest of the room and show it off.
And if you’re looking for one that will cover the surface area of an entire room, keep in mind that a size between nine and 12 feet wide is usually sufficient to cover a large living room. Anything larger is usually too big.
#2: Shape – What Shape do you Prefer?
It’s easy to automatically think of square or rectangular shapes when it comes time to shop, but have you considered another shape? Round, oval, and even octagonal shapes can be found just as easily and come in a large variety of patterns and colors.
By choosing a round shape, you’re showing that you’re willing to “step outside the box” a little in your home’s design. Instead of just a place to stand or a setting for your couch, it now becomes a statement piece, the visual center of your room. Since they can often cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, you should look at them as an investment in design.
#3: Color/Design – What Color or Design Works Best for your Décor?
Here’s where the search turns tricky. It’s easy to say you’d like to find one to match your living room, but ask yourself what that really means. Does it mean you’ll be content with one that simply picks up certain colors? Are you looking for something that compliments a specific look?
If your tastes are very traditional, you might be interested in a classic Oriental style to compliment the timelessness of your tastes. You can even find handmade rugs that have been aged to look appropriate next to antiques or heirloom furniture.
If your tastes are more contemporary, consider sticking to modern patterns. These often feature free form shapes and bold color patterns, much like this one from Momeni’s New Wave collection.