Choosing the perfect rug
From making a statement to defining a zone, a rug is the ultimate style tool. Diana Kabagabe, an interior designer, explains what you should consider before choosing one.
Getting started
The first thing to do is measure your space, then decide on the aesthetic you want. Patterned or a solid block colour? What sort of material do you want? -natural fibre or synthetic? Does the rug need to be hard-wearing – is it going to be in an area that has a lot of foot traffic? Will it be partially covered by a sofa or coffee table? Do you want to be able to sit on it – is it important how it feels underfoot?
Decide what type will best suit your room and the needs of your family or space.
Then, look at the layout of your room. If the rug is for the living or family area, consider the sofa arrangement – whether you have a single sofa, a classic combination of a two-seater and three-seater, or a modular lounge, your seating will determine the shape and size of the rug you’re looking for.
Style sense
Kabagabe says one of the factors to consider when choosing a rug is your lifestyle and your personal style. For example, if you have young children or pets at home, choose a rug that is durable and easy to clean, such as wool, synthetic blend or sea grass.
“Keep in mind that a dark-coloured patterned rug will hide stains or dirt in high-activity areas, especially when you have children. Over-washing the rug will wear it out quickly,” Kabagabe says.
Go for quality
A lower quality piece may appear more affordable in the short term, but will ultimately cost you more in the long run as it ages badly.
Consider the size
Measure the area where you will be placing your rug. You can choose a minimum and maximum optimal size to give you a wider selection of rugs to choose from.
“To expand the space, select a larger size that outlines the perimeter of the area. In the dining room, a rug should be large enough to allow space for chairs, even when pulled away from the table,” she says.
Solids, colours and patterns
While choosing the perfect rug you have to first take a quick list of your colour scheme. To tie the look of the room together, select a rug that complements the two or three main colours in the room.
“As you go to the shop. take a colour sample of your curtains, furniture or wall colours. It’s incredibly hard to visualise how the colours will work together without any reference,” Kabagabe says.
Choose unusual shapes
Contrary to popular belief, there is no law that says rugs have to be rectangular or square but every interesting shape of rugs is perfect for adding a point in your room.
