Choosing the Perfect Area Rug: A Comprehensive Buying Guide
Area rugs are an economical way to upgrade your decor regardless of what type of floors you have. Their flexibility makes them excellent choices for use over existing hardwood, tile, laminate, or vinyl floors, as well as layered over carpet! Keep reading for a guide to picking your perfect area rug.
Choosing Area Rug Sizes
The first thing to consider when shopping for an area rug is your space. Measure out the area where you would like to use the rug, keeping in mind that you want it to extend from about 12” from walls, or at least under the front legs of furniture, if you are using it to designate a grouping of furniture. It is perfectly fine if the rug extends farther under the furniture, beyond the front legs, as long as your furniture has an aesthetic arrangement and doesn’t look crowded together. If you are placing the area rug under a dining table, make sure the rug is sized properly so the chair legs don’t catch on the edges of the rug, which can create accidents and can potentially damage your rug.
Choosing Area Rug Styles
The next consideration when choosing an area rug is to think about the vibe that you’re envisioning for your space. Do you like bold geometrics? Animal prints? Classical exotic? There are literally limitless options for styling your space with area rugs, so definitely dream a little! It’s possible to create any style from a “cozy rustic farmhouse,” to a “chic urban loft” or anything in between. Choose a rug that will suit your purposes. If you don’t want it upstaging your entire decor, choose something slightly more subdued. Also consider the items you already own and don’t opt for something that is going to clash. For instance, your bold sofa may not agree with a wild animal print area rug! Unless you are planning to redo your entire decor, we recommend neutral rug colors and designs that match many different decor styles.
Choosing Area Rug Colors
Once you have the size and style nailed down, it’s time to talk color. If your space is a color that you love, and has been painted recently, you’re all set! If you are planning to switch up your paint, be sure to pick the wall color first. Then, you can bring a sample of your wall color with you when picking out your new rug. With a wide assortment of area rugs available, you are sure to find something that will work perfectly in your space.
Once you have your measurements, style choices, and color preferences in hand, stop by and visit our helpful designers at Thornton Flooring. We are ready to help you choose an area rug that will work wonders to breathe fresh life into your space. Because area rugs are ready to use and require little more than a non-slip pad or some rug tape, you can instantly upgrade your rooms today!
