An area rug can make your space feel warm and inviting. AND if you’re tired of these drab, cold days of winter, a new pop of color in your living room is a welcome change.
So, if you’re ready freshen up the look in your space this spring, grab your favorite beverage, settle in and read on!
“A room should never allow the eye to settle in one place.
It should smile at you and create fantasy.”
– Richelle E. Goodrich –
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An area rug can transform any room. The right one will enhance your color scheme and create a stunning focal point. Your room will feel warmer and look more pulled together.
An area rug will also help absorb noise and echoes from hardwood or tile floors. AND they can hide scratched or damaged wood planks or tiles.
Here are my tips for buying the perfect area rug for your living room this Spring.
1. Size Matters!
As L.A. designer and real estate developer, Erinn V. says “think of your area rug like an island – you want everybody on that island”. Meaning, all of your furniture should be on the rug…or at least part of it.
For example:
- the sofa and side chairs can have just the front legs on the rug, but a better look is to have the entire sofa and chair legs on it;
- side tables need to be either fully on or fully off of the rug;
- the coffee table and/or ottoman should be fully on the rug.
The best way to measure for your new rug is to first place all of the your furniture exactly as you want it in your space. Then measure different standard sizes of rugs (5 x 8, 6 x 9, 8 x 10, 9 x 12, 10 x 13 ) and decide which works best in your space. You can also use painters tape to make an outline on your floor to see exactly how your new rug will fit.
Keep in mind, if you find the “perfect” rug, but it’s too big, you can have it cut down and the edges re-stitched. OR, if you find one that is too small, you can buy two of the same pattern and have them stitched together.
2. Color
You want your new rug to be in harmony with the color palette in your room. But for spring, have some fun, and add in a few other colors in the pattern as well.
The beauty of an area rug is that it isn’t a permanent fixture, if you get tired of it, you can always move it to another room!
3. Material
There are lots of options here…but for your perfect area rug, consider your needs first.
Does it need to be extremely durable for kids and pets?
Do you want it to last a lifetime?
Are you just concerned with aesthetics?
Is cost a factor?
Here is a great guide to help you figure out the best material for your needs: Guide to Type of Rug Materials
4. Cost
Obviously, the higher the quality the rug, the higher the price. Size and material are also factors in the final cost.
In general, silk rugs will be the most expensive. Wool rugs are also pricey (but well worth it in durability). Rugs made with synthetic material will be the most inexpensive as they are mass produced.
It’s always best to determine your budget for your area rug before you go shopping.
5. Decide on a Style
What is the style of your room?
- For a Traditional room, think about an elegant “oriental” rug with rich colors and intricate patterns;
- Transitional rugs can enhance any style of room. The colors are soft and muted and the patterns are often inspired by nature;
- Contemporary rugs have bold patterns and come in a variety of bright and muted colors.
An area rug is an easy way to bring a pop of color into your living room this spring. The right rug will add character and texture and make your room feel cohesive and finished.
The bottom line though, is to buy an area rug that you love!
Let’s Recap!
How to Buy the Perfect Area Rug for Your Living Room this Spring:
- Get the right size
- Pick the perfect color
- Research the right material
- Decide on your budget
- Find a style you love
I hope you use some of these tips before you go shopping for an area rug for your living room this spring.
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- Email your questions and comments to me at kim@kimyoung.ca
- If you’re thinking of doing a home renovation or new build, then you need to read this blog first: 5 Things You Need to Do BEFORE starting a Home Renovation Project
