The most simple definition when it comes to rugs is a piece of fabric made from a durable material to cover open and naked spaces on the floor. Now, rugs have a long and interesting history. Until the 19th century, the term “rug” was practically used for any kind of cloth or piece of fabric used to cover even tables and other spaces.
After commercializing the item, it became later known as a carpet and floor covering. Early excavations show the presence of rugs as early as 2500 years ago. The density of the rugs was 300,000 knots; they were durable and often resistant to basic environmental factors such as water and everyday tear.
For centuries, rugs were used among nomadic people as they needed a durable material to sit on the cold and wet ground for their shelters. In the Middle East, a few thousand years ago, rugs were quite common across the Arab world.
It was a sign of abundance, wealth, and a display of power. Rugs, Persian in particular, were often hung on walls like pieces of art, and their craftsmanship took decades to master.
Later on, forward to the present day, rugs became more of a commercial standard and people avoided them for a while as they believed a beautiful wooden or even marble floor should be displayed in its full glory.
Yet, with the old trends now becoming new, homes and workplaces are putting them back as they create a warm, cozy, and home-like feel. In the text below, we’ll delve into some tips to help you find the right one to elevate your space.
Choose the Right Material
The material of the rug and choosing the right one should be the top priority on your list. As we said, the materials people chose earlier are dependent on factors such as availability, durability, and resistance. Expensive rugs were made from high-end materials that were hard to get and were more of a status symbol than anything else.
Commercializing the rugs made the availability of some materials easier, as they were common. Yet, the same standard still applies even today, and durability and resistance are things to consider even now.
Wool makes them soft, durable, and naturally stain-resistant which makes them perfect for working spaces and any space with a high traffic volume of people. Cotton rugs are affordable and easy to clean, yet don’t have the resistance of wool or antibacterial properties.
Synthetic fibers like polypropylene are stain-resistant, durable, and pet-friendly. All in all, it comes down to how it feels under your foot and what its overall purpose is.
Consider the Size
The size of the rug depends on its use and placement in the home or working area. For example, in the bedroom, you should go for a rug big enough to be placed underneath the bed while the sides are extending just enough so you can place your feet on it while getting out of bed.
For the kitchen, it should be strategically placed underneath the table with enough space on the sides so that when you move chairs, they still land on the rug. Living spaces are a bit different. Your living area shapes the overall appearance of your home.
Big rugs can make it look overwhelming. Small rugs, on the other hand, create a disjointing appearance. The gold standard for your living space is a rug large enough to fit under the front legs of your furniture. Round rugs, because of this, have been gaining quite a bit of popularity.
What kind of choice of round rugs you’ll make depends on your overall interior. Many companies offer a wide variety of different models made from different materials and often have wonderful discounts if you buy two or more pieces. Also, the round rug looks vintage, classy, and stylish and gives your home a special ambiance.
Plus, it fits perfectly with the above-mentioned rule. Working spaces are a different story, as the rug has to endure the high traffic of people walking over it and should primarily be reserved for the lounge area of the coffee area.
Match the Style
The rug should match the energy of your home. For a minimalistic setting, opt for rugs with nice, clean lines and patterns. More traditional settings are perfect for Oriental and Persian rugs. And a bohemian ambiance needs an electrical style with a lot of color and colored patterns.
Play with Patterns
As we said, patterns on the rug depend on the style of the home. Some basic guidelines when it comes to this include matching the rug with the walls of the home. Neutral and bold walls require a rug with a bit of color to make them appear a bit more lively.
And vice versa, if your walls are colorful and full of patterns, look for rugs that have a neutral and bold look to counteract the walls.
Think about Color
The color sets the tone of the whole room; that’s one thing to keep in mind while choosing it. Lighter colors make the room look more spacious than it is. But darker colors give you a sense of warmth and coziness. Colors like grey, beige, and cream are versatile classics and usually go with everything.
Don’t Forget the Rug Pad
Rug pads are parts of the rug that are usually completely forgotten. It’s placed underneath the rug and usually provides more cushioning, making the rug feel softer and better for your feet. It also provides a bit of support, making the rug more durable and long-lasting.
This is especially important if there is a high volume of people walking over the rug. Not only that, but the additional padding provides extra protection for your floors and prevents scratches and bumps.
Budget
We talked about the many types, materials, and guidelines on how to choose the right rug and their application. But, in the end, everything comes down to your budget and how much you are willing to spend on it.
Handcrafted rugs usually have a longer timestamp and are unique and more authentic. They cost more but present a piece of unique craftsmanship. Commercial rugs are perfect for office spaces or if you move a lot and don’t plan on settling yet. Whatever the choice, look for reliable retailers, take your time, and enjoy.
The rug has a long-standing tradition. It’s a piece of history rather than furniture, and they’ll never go out of style, and for good reason. Besides being versatile in their application, they give a special feel to any space and make it look more unique and full.