4 ways rugs can completely transform your space

Here are the key ways that the smart use of rugs can enhance your interior design!

Article Summary

1. Spatial definition
2. Visual appeal
3. Comfort
4. Non-conventional transformations
5. FAQS

1. Spatial definition

If you live in a studio apartment or have a large, open-plan interior design, you may wish to separate these into more clearly defined areas. Rather than using room dividers that make the room feel smaller, rugs are an ingenious solution to divide the room yet keep the open concept space. Rugs allow for free movement throughout the space and will more effectively add to its aesthetic appeal.

The size of the rug chosen will be paramount when deciding where you’d like each defined space to begin and end. Aim to lay the rug within at least a foot of the edge of the area. Measuring the space before you go shopping will make it much easier to narrow down your options when browsing for the perfect rug and picture exactly how it will fit into your space.

When placing several rugs in a room, selecting those with similar tones but using different fabrics is the perfect way to tie the room together. Another option is to select two rugs in the same eye-catching print, to foster consistency in the spaces without being too boring. If you’re having trouble finding a rug in the perfect shape or size, you can always purchase a carpet that can be cut to your exact specifications.

2. Visual appeal

Possibly the most obvious reason for including a rug as part of your décor is the incredible difference it can make to the aesthetic appeal of the room. Adding a rug to your interior is a very quick and easy way to liven up a dull space. The best way to incorporate a rug into the current design of your interior is to select shades from the same colour group, or choose lovely neutrals that will work well with anything, as neutrals are an awesome trend for a number of reasons.

If you already own a bold rug that you’re in love with, you can always redecorate a room based around the rug as the focal point! Choose a colour within the pattern of the rug, and match the rest of your furnishings and décor around this by selecting these items in various shades within the same colour family. This will tie the whole room together, while allowing your beautiful rug to feature as the key decoration.

Another interesting way to add a rug to your space is to add two. Rugs can be layered on top of each other to introduce various textures to the room, and this is most effectively done by choosing colours and prints that work in harmony with each other, but are not exactly the same.

If you already own a rug you adore, but it is too small for the space in which you wish to feature it, you can place it on top of a larger, neutral rug to fill in this extra space surrounding it. You can even create a bohemian-style space by layering a bunch of small rugs together to create a larger, patchwork-style floor covering. This would look incredible alongside a number of other bohemian inspired home décor looks we love. 

3. Comfort

Just as a beautiful, bold rug can be a visual pleasure for anyone who enters your home, a soft rug can also be inviting to the sense of touch, giving you the ability to create a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere within a room. There’s nothing that elicits a cosier feeling than to be able to curl up on the floor on a lush faux fur or sheepskin with a cup of coffee and a good book. These can add a sense of luxury to the room, or alternatively, you can add a chunky cable-knit rug to keep that soft feel but for a more modest, homely vibe. 

4. Non-conventional transformations

Transforming your room with a rug doesn’t have to be conventional, with the floor being only one of the many places you can place it. You can jazz up your dining space by laying small faux fur rugs over your dining chairs, which adds to the inviting atmosphere within the room and even a casual rustic vibe when used with beautiful timber furniture. This is a great way to improve your home décor without saying goodbye to old furniture!

To spice up your bedroom décor, you can drape an eye-catching rug over your usual bedding as an easy way of changing up the colour scheme or theme in the room. Select a rug detailed with tassels or pom-poms to add texture to the space, or a bright, patterned rug to make the bed the focal point of the room. The rug can be easily folded or rolled to the bottom of the bed when it’s time to jump in!

If you have a blank wall that you need to fill and don’t wish to use the usual decorations, such as paintings, mirrors or shelves, you can hang a beautifully detailed rug on your wall to grab the attention of anyone who enters the room and perfectly fill the empty wall space. A circular mandala-style rug would be a wonderful option for this type of decorating. 

If you’re lucky enough to have a daybed in your home where you may find yourself reading a good book by a sunny window, you can easily update its appearance whenever you’d like — simply drape a rug over the base cushion and tucking the ends underneath to give your relaxation space the decoration it deserves. 

Use these tips to transform your space with a rug and provide endless opportunities to update your home with a fresh atmosphere or style. Rugs provide you with a convenient solution when the seasons or your personal tastes change.

Need some more advice on decorating your home? Get in touch with a local home design expert!

FAQS

Can rugs be used in outdoor spaces?

Yes, you can place your rug outside if undercover, or alternatively, a rug intended for external purposes specifically. Outdoor rugs are designed to withstand weather conditions and can be a stylish addition to patios, decks, or outdoor seating areas. When choosing an outdoor rug, look for materials that are weather-resistant and easy to clean.

How can rugs contribute to energy efficiency or insulation in a room?

Rugs can play a role in improving energy efficiency by providing an extra layer of insulation on floors. In colder seasons, rugs can help retain heat, making a room feel warmer and potentially reducing heating costs. Conversely, in warmer climates, rugs with lighter colours may help to keep a room cooler by reflecting sunlight.

Which types of rugs are best for homes with pets or allergy concerns?

For homes with pets or allergy concerns, consider rugs made from natural materials like wool or those labelled as hypoallergenic. Low-pile rugs are easier to clean and less likely to trap allergens. Regular cleaning and choosing rugs with anti-microbial properties can also help maintain a healthier environment for both pets and allergy-sensitive individuals.

Further Reading

• 7 Cheapest Home Upgrade Ideas
• A Guide to Colour Psychology in Home Decorating and Room Design
• 5 Essential Ways to Improve the External Appearance of Your Home