Rugs can divide the room’s space visually into areas or functions. The dining, living and bedroom areas may be designated by rugs placed judiciously in a large room. The various elements of the room can be unified by a large rug, or by a common pattern, color or design in the various rugs used. Rugs with patterns can be more easily harmonized with the other room elements than those with solid colors.
Putting different rugs together in a single room can give any room a distinctly unique look. Although there is no hard and fast rule when trying to achieve the coordinated look with different area rugs there are a few general rules that will hold you in good stead. Floral designs that contrast nicely with geometric patterns; ‘busy’ patterns may blend well with simpler patterns and large patterns could complement small ones.
If you have furniture as a focal point you can use your rug to compliment your focal point. Use colors that blend in and avoid primary colors that may stand out.
If your focal point is the area rug itself you can use bright colors or large busy patterns to allow the rug to stand out.
If a fireplace is the focal point use a rug that is subdued in color and pattern so it will not distract from the fireplace. Remember, if more than one element or item compete to be the focal point, the room’s harmony may be unbalanced and it will generate an unpleasant ambience. Only one element should be ‘busy’ in decorating a space.
Other ideas to consider when using rugs to decorate your home include the following:
1.) Light colored rugs make a room feel more spacious; darker colors or patterns make the room more cozy or warm.
2.) A different shaped rug can bring a totally different look to your room. Try round, hexagon, octagon, or oval.
3.) Consider using fringes on the edges of your rugs. Be sure to carefully vacuum around them so you don’t ruin the rug or the vacuum.
4.) Turn your worn out rugs into sofa pillows and add some style with tassels on the corners.
5.) A colorful rug may also make a good wall decoration. Tack or nail it to the wall, or sew loops at a long edge, run a window rod through them, and attach the rod to a pair of window brackets. You will make only two holes in the wall and the rug will hang straighter also.
Use your imagination when decorating with rugs. You can use a rug in several different ways and create a unique look every time.
