Rugs are an interior designer’s secret weapon. Rugs can transform a room in an instant, anchor a room, create cohesion, connect spaces and define areas.
From the bedroom to the living room, indoors or outdoors, rugs can be used in a myriad of ways, from adding warmth to defining a space within an open plan.
Open plan spaces can be tricky to carve out distinct spaces so using a rug will visually define an area. Putting a generous rug under your dining table and chairs signals you’re in the dining room and breaks up a sea of floorboards or tiles. Similarly, adding a rug to the living area, with a coffee table placed on top, creates an inviting, comfortable atmosphere.
Where to place your rug
Depending on the size of your rug, the centre of the room is a good place to start. You will need it to fill most of the space. Or, you could centre it around a focal point such as a fireplace.
For the living space, if you’re not going to fill most of the room with it, you’ll at least want to anchor it with a sofa for cohesion. Ideally, it will sit entirely on the rug, or at the very least, ensure the front legs do. In the bedroom, the bed should be at least half on the large, single rug.
Alternatively, you could place smaller rugs on both sides of the bed to create a soft landing for your feet when you get out of bed on a cold morning.
Rugs create ambience
If you’ve got wooden floors in your living area, a large rug creates a cocooning, comforting vibe.
Rugs for acoustics and noise reduction
Ever lived in an apartment where the neighbour above you has wooden floors and wears heels almost 24/7? Every step is amplified.
Rugs can make a statement
Because of their relative size, they can add real drama to a room.
Does the size of the rug matter?
Most definitely. You don’t want a small rug in a large room. It will actually make the room look smaller, whereas a generously proportioned one will make a room feel larger.
Plain or patterned?
It’s easy to play safe with a neutral-toned rug with little to no pattern, as a large, pure wool one is an investment. But sometimes, being brave with a bright colour or bold pattern will pay off big time, particularly if the rest of the room is relatively neutral.
What about a rug over a carpet?
If you’re after a layered look, this is a fast track to that. Rugs are also a godsend for hiding a threadbare carpet or large stain – particularly great if you’re renting. When you move, simply pick up your carpet and go. Don’t make the mistake of using a broadloom (that’s generally what carpets are) rug though, or a bulky shag style. Instead, try a kilim, dhurrie or other low-profile flat-weave type that will sit flush.
What about securing them in place?
This is almost a health and safety issue, especially if you’ve got rugs on a wooden floor that easily move – you don’t want to go for a skate. The easiest way is to put a rug underlay under the expanse of the rug. These are generally stickier or made of a textured material that helps to avoid slippage. Bonus: the edges shouldn’t curl up with an underlay.
The best rugs available in NZ
Whitlam Floor Rug
$1,471.55 (was $1,549.00) at Freedom
A classic rug that makes a statement, this modern piece from Freedom is an elegant piece that would elevate any space. Between the living room, a bedroom, or even dining room, this rug gives a sense of luxury. It’s created from durable loop pile wool, too, so suited to high traffic areas.
Key features:
- Hand-tufted floor rug
- Made in India
- Various sizes available
Cut Pile Wool Rug
$3,600.00 at Nodi
Eager to add colour but unsure how? A rug is a simple solution for any room in your place. This rosewood colour from Nodi has been gaining popularity in recent years, as pink is more commonly thought of as a neutral, easily able to complement a range of colours and tones.
Key features:
- Crafted from 100% New Zealand wool
- Hand loomed
- Soft, durable texture
- Available in a range of colours and sizes
Tiiliskivi Rug
from $1,855.00 at Bolt of Cloth
This brick pattern – named Tiiliskivi – was originally designed by Marimekko’s founder, Armi Ratia, in 1952 and has been one of the brand’s most popular designs ever since. Meant to reflect Ratia’s belief in the simple beauty of everyday life, the pattern is bold yet subtle, adding a touch of style and structure to its setting.
Key features:
- Hand-tufted
- Made of wool
- Available in a range of sizes and colours
Beau Wool Blend Floor Rug
$359.00 (was $599.99) at Mocka
For an undeniably soft feeling underfoot, this thick and plush rug from Mocka will make any room feel cosy and inviting. Handloomed in India from a wool blend and crafted into a bauble pile, it may almost be like walking on a cloud. Place this rug under a bed or lounge setting and instantly feel at home.
Key features:
- Dimensions: 230 x 160 cm
- Wool blend
- Ready to ship
Tennis Rug
$440.00 at Paper Plane
Add a sporty vibe to your home with the Tennis Rug from Oyoy. Featuring a miniature yet realistic tennis court in caramel and optic blue, the rug is playful and aesthetic, perfect for a nursery, play area or anywhere in your home that could do with a statement piece.
Key features:
- Size: 88cm x 150 cm
- Material: 80% wool, 20% cotton
- Also available in Green & Rose colourway
Large Puddle Rug
$109.00 at Kmart
If you’re looking for a statement piece that doesn’t shy away from neutral tones, try an irregular-shaped rug. This option from Kmart is a fashion-forward rug that’ll always start a conversation. Perfect for any space, from the nursery to the entryway, move it around as your home evolves. Also available in a small size.
Key features:
- Material: Cotton, polyester, viscose
- Dimensions: 265 cm x 195cm
Related Articles:
- How to position a rug, according to an interior stylist
- The home decor our editors are shopping this April
- Revive your home with colourful home decor
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