Many homeowners are ditching carpeted living rooms in favor of hardwood or laminate –it’s not hard to see why. Aside from being an attractive alternative to carpeting, it’s durable, easy to clean and can update the look of just about any home.
An area rug is a perfect accompaniment for your hardwood flooring as it can add that instant 'wow-factor' that take a room from boring to chic. And as functional as they are beautiful to look at, an area rug will provide comfort and warmth for those tender tootsies.
Now all you need to do is determine which area rug meets your needs. With all of the options out there, it can be a little overwhelming.
To get you started in the right direction, here are five factors you need consider before purchasing your new area rug.
Size
Before you begin your quest for the perfect rug, it is imperative that you determine the area of the room it will cover. Using masking tape, map out the area you plan to place the rug – this will not only make it easier to measure the space, but it will give you an opportunity to have a general idea of what the room will look like afterward.
Looking for a non-standard sized rug? No problem! Rugs can be custom-made to fit any room. If you’re on a tight budget, many carpet retailers can create the perfect rug using the materials in their showroom for a fraction of the price.
Texture/material
One of the most important factors to consider while deciding on a material for your area rug is placement. If you plan on using the rug to cover a high traffic area, consider selecting a material such as Nylon. Touted for its durability and stain resistant qualities, Nylon is an excellent choice for families or homes with pets.
On the flip side, synthetic fibers are manufactured using chemicals, which would pose a concern for families living an all-natural lifestyle. If this is the case for your family, select a resilient natural fiber such as cotton. If you’re covering an area that doesn’t see a lot of action, consider investing in a rug made from delicate and luxurious silk. Silk can add class and sophistication to just about any room.
Colour
When making an investment in a high-ticket item for the home, such as furniture, it’s a natural instinct for folks to lean towards neutral colours. An area rug is an effortless and fun way to infuse a pop of colour or an interesting pattern into an otherwise lackluster sea of neutral colours.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to enhance bold accessories such as decorative throw cushions or blankets, a rug in a neutral tone may be a better option. As an added bonus, light-coloured rugs tend to make rooms look larger. In either case, experts suggest that the rug you choose should contrast with the colour of the floor it is placed on.
Shape
In some cases, it is better to think outside the box. Don’t feel as if you should limit yourself to the standard rectangle – contemplate the possibility of purchasing a round or a funky animal shape rug. Round rugs are useful if you’d like to create a focal point – show off that elegant round coffee table. The retail marketplace is filled with plenty of uniquely shaped area carpets. Have fun with it and show your personality!
Budget
Like everything in life, you get what you pay for. This holds especially true while shopping for an area rug. When setting a budget for your new rug, consider your needs. Are you looking to make a lasting investment? If you’re looking to splurge on a piece to will last a lifetime (and money is no option), a hand-knotted rug may just be your best option. However, due their high quality and the labor involved in the production of them, they are amongst some of the most expensive rugs in the world.
On a budget? Don’t fret! If you’re not Scrooge McDuck and cannot afford to spend thousands of dollars (like most of us) there are plenty of inexpensive options out there. For the extremely patient, try your luck at the local vintage or antique shop.
Keep these five things in mind and you’ll be thrilled with the results. Good Luck!