Hello everyone, I'm Julie, and today you're joining me for another common design mistakes video. This time, we're diving into area rugs. You might remember from my last video, "The Ultimate Guide to Area Rugs," where I explained how to use area rugs in every room of your home. After watching that video, many of you had additional questions, so I’ve rounded up this video to address the most common inquiries. Let’s jump right into it!
Common Area Rug Mistakes
Mistake #1: Choosing Too Small of an Area Rug
The most common mistake is selecting an area rug that's too small. This mistake frequently occurs in the living room, dining room, and bedroom.
Living Room: Your area rug should fit all of the furniture on top of it with at least a 6-inch border around the furniture. If that’s not possible, ensure the front legs of the furniture sit on the rug. A too-small rug makes a large space look smaller by not adequately defining the seating area.
Dining Room: The area rug should be large enough to keep chairs on the rug even when scooted out. This protects the flooring and provides a more ergonomic experience. Measure 36 inches from the perimeter of your dining table as the minimum size for your rug.
Bedroom: For a queen bed, an 8x10 rug is the minimum size, and for a king or California king, a 9x12 rug is ideal. The rug should extend around the bed, creating a soft landing for your feet.
Mistake #2: Suffocating the Room with a Wall-to-Wall Rug
Avoid using area rugs that go wall-to-wall. This approach hides your beautiful flooring and makes the room feel cramped. Leave at least 6 inches, preferably 12 to 18 inches, between the rug and the walls.
Choosing the Right Rug Material
Different materials suit different needs:
- Wool Rugs: Durable, luxurious, and allergy-friendly but can retain moisture. Avoid using them in wet areas like bathrooms or mudrooms. They require professional cleaning.
- Natural Materials (Jute, Sisal, Seagrass): Offer a chunky, organic look but shed significantly, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Silk Rugs: Ideal for intricate designs and often displayed rather than used on the floor. They are delicate and expensive.
- Polyester/Polypropylene Rugs: Affordable, soft, and available in various colors but not highly durable. They are best for low-traffic areas and homes without pets or children.
Avoiding Matchy-Matchy Designs
Don’t match your area rugs exactly. Instead, create a cohesive yet dynamic space by mixing different styles and colors that fall within your overall color scheme. This approach prevents a monotonous look.
Layering Rugs Correctly
Layering area rugs can add depth and interest, but avoid placing a rug on high-pile carpet. It works best with low-pile carpets or layering two low-pile rugs.
Selecting the Rug First
Choose the area rug first to establish your room’s color story. This makes it easier to coordinate furnishings, drapery, and decor, ensuring a cohesive design.
Additional Designer Tips
- Buy the Best You Can Afford: Investing in a high-quality rug saves money in the long run.
- Use Rug Pads: They protect floors, extend the rug’s life, and provide additional cushioning.
- Follow Cleaning Instructions: Proper care prevents damage and preserves the rug's appearance.
Case Studies and Solutions
Corner Fireplace: Avoid placing rugs too close to a corner fireplace. Clear the corner and treat it like another wall, giving the rug space to breathe.
Entry Foyer: Use the largest rug you can afford to make the entry look larger. If space is tight, consider a runner instead of a small door mat.
Kitchen: Place runners where you need cushioning, typically in front of the sink or stove.
Conclusion
Remember, design rules are guidelines, not absolutes. Consider your lifestyle and choose rugs that you love. For more detailed guidance, check out my video, "The Ultimate Guide to Area Rugs." If you have more questions or need sourcing tips, let me know in the comments.
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