Hardwood floors are a timeless addition to any home, known for their beauty and elegance. The natural grain patterns add a unique touch to interiors that can otherwise appear uniform. Adding an area rug enhances these floors, making the space feel cozier and more intimate. The room instantly becomes warmer and more inviting. However, achieving the right balance in placement is crucial. Here’s a guide on how to pair area rugs with hardwood floors.
The Size of the Rug
Start by looking at the dimensions of the rug and the room. Ideally, an area rug should cover the main seating area of the room. For instance, in a dining area, the rug should extend under the table and chairs with some extra space all around. It’s important to ensure that the chairs can easily slide in and out without catching on the rug’s edges.
At minimum, the front legs of the chairs should rest on the rug. It can be frustrating and unsafe if you have to constantly readjust the rug after pulling out the chairs. Measure the dimensions of your room carefully. A large rug may overwhelm a small room visually. However, an oval-shaped rug can create an illusion of more space in a compact area, which is a useful design tip.
To create the appearance of a larger room, you might consider choosing an unusually shaped rug to play with the proportions. Conversely, if your room has irregular dimensions or diverse furniture, you could select different rugs for distinct areas within the space. Remember, rugs don’t always need to be the centerpiece of the room.
The Right Color Combination
Next, you should think about the color of both the rug and the floor. Hardwood floors come in a variety of shades, from dark to light and everything in between, including gray. It’s important that the color scheme of the area rug complements the floor and the room, so it doesn’t clash but also doesn’t fade into the background.
You want your guests to notice and appreciate your sense of style. For instance, a soft blue area rug on a gray floor can create a stunning effect in your home. The blue will perfectly complement the flooring and showcase your taste. If you prefer a more dramatic look, be intentional about it.
For example, if your current hardwood floors are a light brown color, you might consider a black and white textured rug, especially if the rest of the room’s furnishings match. In this case, you don’t have to worry about blending in with the floor. Instead, everything should enhance the area rug.
Consider the Placement
Once you’ve chosen the size and color, the next step is to think about where to place the rug. Take a look at the room as it is now—pay attention to the furniture arrangement. When you add a rug, you need to consider how it will fit in with the rest of the furnishings.
Most people place rugs under furniture, but sometimes you might place one off to the side, near the furniture.
If you choose to place the area rug off to the side rather than directly under the furniture, make sure to space it out evenly. This will prevent the room from looking too crowded with too many items. It’s important to maintain some visibility of the floor, as you will likely appreciate the look of your floors and may not want to cover them completely.
Choosing the Right Pattern
Patterned rugs offer a practical advantage: they conceal dirt, pet hair, and crumbs better than solid area rugs. For pet owners especially, this can be a game-changer. While regular vacuuming and cleaning are still necessary, a patterned rug can help maintain its appearance longer.
Classic options like Turkish and oriental-style rugs are popular choices. However, patterns need not be elaborate; even a simple striped rug can suffice. Hardwood floors, being neutral, can handle both bold and understated designs.
When selecting a pattern, consider the age and style of your hardwood floor. Matte finishes, for instance, lend a soft and muted ambiance, which can be complemented by vibrant colors and striking patterns. Southwestern area rugs effortlessly blend these characteristics.
Prioritize Safety
Safety should be your top consideration when choosing an area rug for hardwood floors. Selecting the wrong rug could lead to accidents. Opt for a non-slip rug whenever possible. If you can’t find one in the style you like, you can always use a non-slip rug gripper underneath to keep it in place.
While it might seem amusing to watch someone slip on a rug, it could result in serious injuries. Regardless of your hardwood flooring type, always choose a rug that minimizes slipping hazards.
Make sure your rug stays firmly in place without damaging your floor. Rug grippers are a good alternative to double-sided tape, which can harm your floors. Consult with experts for advice on keeping your rug securely in place.
Enhance Your Room’s Brightness
Consider the brightness of your room. If your space is flooded with natural light from lots of windows, you’ll want to enhance that effect. Manage the light levels carefully. Dark furniture combined with dark hardwood floors can give your living area a somber feel.
However, you can easily reintroduce brightness by adding a splash of color with an area rug. Opt for a lighter rug, ensuring it complements the room’s overall color palette for a blended look. At Arrant Luxury, we offer a range of hand-made area rugs that can cater to any home decor.
Let us help you match your area rug with your hardwood floor. For more details, please visit our website.
FAQs
How do I choose the right area rug for my hardwood floors?
Consider the color and style of your hardwood floors. Opt for a rug that complements these tones to create a harmonious look.
Should the area rug match the hardwood floor exactly?
Not necessarily. It’s more important that the rug coordinates well with the overall color scheme of the room.
What size area rug should I choose for my hardwood floor?
A common guideline is to leave a border of hardwood flooring visible around the edges of the rug, typically 18-24 inches, to frame the space nicely.