How to Decorate with Area Rugs ~ Floors Now edition.

If you have hard surface flooring, whether it be hardwood, tile, laminate, or otherwise, at some point or another, you may have tried to make it cozier by laying down an area rug. What most people don't know though, is that just like hanging up a picture or artwork, or designing anything else around your home, there are do's and there are don'ts.

If you are placing an area rug in your living area, for example, one popular rule is that the rug should be large enough to slide under the front legs of sofas and chairs in a seating arrangement, unifying the furniture. But just as frequently, it's also suggested that all legs of the furniture should sit on the rug! So, rather than being bound by rules, simply being aware of these guidelines and options will assist you in determining what size rug will provide the visual effect you desire in the rooms of your home!

See our Pinterest page on area rugs and get inspired here.

Here's a list of do's and don'ts to help you out!

Do: Buy a quality rug from a reputable store that will stand by their product in case of any unraveling of the binding, etc.
Don't: Settle and purchase a rug just because it's on sale. Make sure that you love it and that it meets all of your requirements.

Do: Decide if you want to have all of the furniture on your rug, or off of it. This will determine the size you need, and set the feel for your room.
Don't: Purchase a smaller rug if you are looking for a more permanent change. A larger rug will give you more options in placement over the long run.

Do: Research different pile heights. A short pile better suits high traffic areas and outdoor environments. A high pile is more luxurious and is also great for kids to play on.
Don't: For example, don't place a shaggy rug at a door entrance. A low pile rug in this case will be much easier to clean and will last longer.

Do: Choose an area rug that compliments the style of the room, specifically in respect with the color scheme and scale of the room.
Don't: Purchase a patterned rug that may clash with any other patterns/designs/colours in the room.

Do: Consider layering area rugs even over carpet. Layering area rugs is an ongoing trend, and can make a large room feel cozier with additional texture.
Don't: Forget about your outdoor living areas! Area rugs are great additions for decks, patio's and even poolsides!

Do: Experiment with your area rug. Try rotating your rug from time to time; this may inspire you to rearrange the furniture in your space for a refreshing change. Area rugs can also be hung! Try hanging a handwoven rug as a piece of art, or instead of a headboard above your bed!
Don't: Be afraid to admit that the rug you thought you loved isn't working out. If it's not a definite yes, it's a definite no! Most places will allow you to exchange your rug if it's not quite the right fit. Be sure to ask our Flooring Advisors about returns, refunds, or exchanges before you buy.

Do: Center the rug in the room, or position it in such a way as to create a focal point. Also remember that area rugs aren't strictly for living areas, try one under your kitchen table.
Don't: Forget to buy backing for area rugs so that they stay in place, wherever you put them.

Do: Inquire about having your carpet sized and bound for a customized look to fit your space perfectly.
Don't: Be afraid to use bright colors and patterns to make a statement! You should be proud of your home and it should be unique to your personality and preferences.

In the end, follow your own style and remember these are just guideline's to help you on your journey to purchasing an area rug, not rules! Have fun along the way and you'll be amazed at how a single area rug can dramatically add instant style to your space!