Living room rugs serve both a decorative and practical purpose. There is a wide selection of options from which one can choose when purchasing a rug, including Persian, Oriental, designer, animal print or traditional braided rugs. Each type has its own unique features and benefits. Area rugs add texture, color and warmth to any living room in which they are placed. In addition, they can be used on virtually any type of flooring, including wall to wall carpeting.
Area rugs also help divide the space of a large room, which makes it look cozier. Similarly, such rugs can add a bit of grandeur to a small living room. With so many types and styles from which to choose, almost anyone can find an area rug with which he or she is completely satisfied. However, when selecting a rug, a consumer must take several aspects into consideration. The following are some tips that will make the selection process easier:
Shape
One should first consider the shape of rug that will best suit his or her living room. A rug should be chosen that complements the wall art and furniture in the room. Oval rugs work well in rooms that have traditional, Victorian or rustic decor. Similarly, square rugs blend perfectly in rooms that feature sharp, smooth lines, such as those seen with modern or abstract home interiors. One can also choose a rug for the purpose of creating a contrast in the room if this is desired. For instance, a rectangular area rug can be placed in the living room’s center to offset furniture and decor that features soft edges. This approach also work’s in reverse and is limited only by the person’s imagination.
Size
It is important to select the correct size when investing in a rug, but it is not enough to simply know the room’s measurements unless one is planning to cover the entire living room floor with an area rug. Instead, one should measure the space in which he or she plans to place the rug. If a rug in the exact dimensions the person desires is not available, it is better to purchase a rug that is a bit larger rather than a smaller rug.
Color
It is wise to select a color that properly blends with the living room’s overall decor. Hues such as brown, red or gold are ideal for rooms that feature warm colors. Shades such as purple, green or blue are cool-toned colors and work best for rooms in which similar shades are displayed. If the decor of the room features a black and white pattern, a rug in virtually any color is appropriate.
Additional Considerations
An area rug should be chosen that best complements the room’s existing floor. A small rug is perfect if one’s goal is to highlight the floor, and a large rug will work best if the homeowner wishes to conceal the floor. If the floor is plain, a patterned rug will add flair to the room, while a rug in a solid tone is the best choice for a multi-color floor.
When shopping for area rugs, it is wise to consider a variety of options before making a final decision. One must also consider his or her budget, as it does little or no good to find the ideal rug only to discover it is out of reach financially. Whether the rug is colorful, plain, small or large, living room rugs can be used to enhance the overall decor of any room in which they are placed.