Area rugs can define a room, provide comfort and insulation underfoot, and add a pop of color. These days, they’re also easier to clean than ever before.
1︎. It visually expands the space
“The rule of thumb is that you should buy an area rug large enough so that its borders reach the walls on all sides,” says Luella Auld, owner of interior design firm In Your Space + Studio in Silver Lake, California. This trick works best in rooms with exposed-brick or hardwood floors or white walls; either way, “the look is very modern,” Auld points out. If this effect isn’t what your home decor calls for but you still want some pizzazz underfoot, opt for a larger rug with a smaller pattern.
2︎. It softens hardwood floors
For many homeowners, wood or tile flooring is an important design element that also adds to the home’s resale value when it comes time to sell. But these surfaces can be cold in winter and hard on bare feet, says Auld. “A rug will add extra insulation from the ground underneath,” she explains, “making rooms more comfortable throughout the year.” If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove in your living area, make sure to place your rug far enough away so sparks won’t rapidly burn holes through it.
3︎. It fights fatigue—in style
Not everyone has a plush carpet underfoot at home, but that’s no reason to sacrifice the familiar sense of calm and well-being that comes with cushiony support. “Studies have shown that carpets help people focus, feel calmer, and increase productivity,” says Susan Harvill, owner of New York City interior design firm The Apartment in Manhattan. Many types of area rugs can be found in a variety of price ranges; for example, handwoven jute options are available starting at under AED 50- 3000 per square foot Only at the Carpets Express Website.
4︎. It feels more luxurious underfoot
If you’re on a budget. Area rugs aren’t just for the wealthy—and there are plenty to choose from even if you’re low on cash. “You could go down to your local hardware store and buy a cheapie, but it’s more fun and rewarding to find an antique or one with personal significance,” says Harvill. For example, if you’re decorating a small space on the cheap but want an extra pop of color underfoot, look for something in reds and oranges such as Moroccan rugs that feature traditional geometric patterns. If you have more time, she suggests shopping for vintage or handwoven pieces on Etsy or eBay.
5︎. It makes cleaning easier
“All rugs are machine-washable these days,”. This is especially important when you have household pets whose dirt regularly gets tracked into the house through their paws. Use your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment to regularly suck off pet hair, dust, and dirt.
6︎. It adds texture
Area rugs are the perfect way to warm up any room’s character with something cozy that you can sink into with your feet or tuck under chairs at the dining table. They’re also an easy way to change your space’s look, both seasonally and for special occasions. “For summertime parties, I like jute because it’s so lightweight,” says Harvill. “But I’ll use chenille pieces in autumn because they have a much cozier feel”—or switch out overdyed flokati rugs in winter for fleecy ones when cold weather rolls around again.
7︎. You can still wear shoes in the house.
“Because an area rug makes a room more comfortable to walk on, it’s okay to leave your shoes at the door,” says Auld, who points out that you can still make a style statement even when wearing McQueen-worthy heels or sporty sneakers with your favorite jeans and T-shirt.
8︎. Sets a welcoming tone in a home office
Many people work from home these days but share their space with family members since there isn’t much extra room in an average American abode these days. If you’re looking for ways to create separate zones for each family member—especially if one is trying to focus on writing their next bestseller while another would rather curl up with their tablet and watch movies—install a dividing demarcation in the form of an area rug. “Using a bold color or pattern will help to create divisions,” Harvill says, but notes that you can also simply use different styles for each area.”One popular way people are using their home office is to have two separate areas—one for working and studying, with casual pieces in earth tones, and another for entertaining friends or family members, with more formal rugs in deep colors or patterns,” she explains.
9︎. It’s easy on your wallet
Area rugs can be inexpensive if you look at prepackaged sale selections at large chains like HomeGoods or TJ Maxx. And flea markets are full of hidden gems that may require some cleaning up, but the price is unbeatable. “I bought a kilim rug for $10 at a flea market, then had it cleaned and cut down to fit my space,” says Harvill.
10︎. They make great conversation pieces
If you’re looking for something with more personality to tuck under your favorite chair, consider an antique or heirloom piece that has some history behind it. “Old Persian rugs are lovely because they have so much color and texture,” says Auld. Plus, these antiques will typically hold their value if you decide to sell them in the future.”