How to Choose the Perfect Rug

Not all Rugs are Created Equal 

A rug can transform a room—adding warmth, texture, colour and personality to any space. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re refreshing your living room or layering up a bedroom, here’s a quick guide to help you understand the essential elements of rug selection.

Fibre Matters: Natural vs Synthetic

 

Natural fibres are loved for their beauty and durability.

• Wool is a favourite for its softness, natural resilience and insulating properties. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas like living rooms.

• Cotton rugs are lightweight and affordable, ideal for casual settings or layering.

• Jute and sisal offer a relaxed, coastal or earthy look and are great for neutral schemes. These are durable but can be rough underfoot.

• Silk or silk blends add luxurious sheen, best suited for low-traffic areas like formal sitting rooms or bedrooms.

Synthetic fibres, like polypropylene and nylon, are stain-resistant, budget-friendly, and often mimic natural fibres well. These are practical options for families or rental properties.

Sizing it Up: Getting Proportions Right

A rug that’s too small can make a room feel disconnected, while a well-sized rug anchors the space beautifully. Here are a few tips:

• Living Room: Ideally, the front legs of your furniture should sit on the rug. In larger rooms, all legs of your furniture can sit fully on the rug for a more luxurious, cohesive look.

• Dining Room: Choose a rug large enough to fit the table and all chairs, even when pulled out. Add at least 60cm around the table’s edges.

• Bedroom: For queen or king beds, a rug should extend around 60–75cm beyond the sides and foot of the bed. Alternatively, two runners on either side can also work well.

Patterns and Personality

Rugs are a powerful tool for expressing style. Use them to add contrast, unify colours, or introduce texture.

• Bold patterns (like geometric or tribal prints) are perfect for contemporary or eclectic interiors. They draw the eye and become a focal point.

• Subtle patterns (like tone-on-tone weaves or soft florals) add depth without overwhelming a space—ideal for minimalist or classic schemes.

• Traditional and Persian-style rugs bring a sense of history, elegance and craftsmanship to a room. Their intricate designs and rich colour palettes work beautifully in both classic and modern interiors, often grounding a space with timeless character.

• Layering rugs, such as a patterned rug over a larger jute or flatweave base, can create visual interest and a curated, designer look.

Remember, patterns also affect how much wear shows—busier patterns tend to hide stains or traffic better.

Next Steps   

Final Tip - always consider the lifestyle of the household. If you have pets, children or high foot traffic always opt for durable, easy clean fibres and busier patterns. Don't forget if you're looking to refresh your home or have a larger project in mind feel free to call, text or email me to discuss or make an appointment.

Deborah Ross - M: 0411 878 732

or email design@hannafordross.com

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