Why the right rug can make all the difference to your home decor

Your choice of rug should come down to much more than finding something soft under your feet – as lovely as that is! Adding a rug has the power to define spaces, add interest or balance a colour scheme in any Gold Coast property.

However, choosing the right rug is essential for ensuring you end up with the look you want. Here are some tips to help you pick your new rug.

Material and style

When it comes to material, think about how the space is used. If your kids or pets are likely to be running through covered in mud on a regular basis, fluffy or chunky designs might not be the best options as they're harder to clean. Low-pile designs are easier to vacuum or shake out – and also work well if you live with someone who has limited mobility. 

In high-traffic areas like hallways, where people will be passing through several times a day, something hard-wearing is required. Good options are flat-woven natural material rugs, such as wool, cotton, jute or hemp. Rooms that are used less frequently, or where people tend to sit rather than walk around, are okay with softer textures.

Colour and pattern

How you pick the right colour for your rug depends largely on what else is going on in your room. If you already have plenty of colour, a light or neutral-coloured rug can balance the space. However, in a room that's already mellow, rugs are a great way to add a pop of colour without committing to bright furniture or walls.

The same goes for what pattern you choose. In an otherwise plain room, you can get away with adding some interest with a patterned rug. Whereas, if you already have a couple of different prints and textures going on, a block colour may be the better choice. Remember that a rug should complement the other decor, rather than match exactly or clash. 

Size and positioning

When you buy your rug it's important to find one that's the right size for your space – and if anything, it's usually best to go bigger than smaller. In a dining area, for example, you want one that not only covers the space under the table, but also under the chairs, even when they're pulled out. The same goes for bedroom rugs – you want them big enough to greet your feet when you first get out of bed. 

If you're arranging furniture around a rug as a centering feature, such as in a living room, all the items should be on top of the rug, even if only their front feet. This helps to define the space, especially within a large or open-plan room. 

Find the perfect home for your interior style. Get in touch with the team at Ray White Surfers Paradise.