Furniture may set the tone of a room, but there are many different interior design elements that affect the style and theme of a space. While table lamps provide task lighting and throw pillows lend a degree of comfort to an already cozy sofa, the easiest way to improve a room is to use area rugs. Here are a few things to remember when searching.
Figure out the Room’s Theme
Floor coverings come in different shapes, colors, and sizes. Before heading to the store or browsing online, identify the room’s theme. This will help narrow down patterns and colors into the ones that best suit the room. In fact, eye-catching area rugs may even provide ideas for decorating the rest of the room.
Don’t Go too Small
The most common mistake people make when buying a new floor covering is selecting one that’s too small for the space. While it may seem counterintuitive, select a carpet that’s slightly larger than the furniture or space it will be used in. This way, the room will feel larger and the furniture will look more tied in, even if the pieces do not match entirely.
Use the Right Shape
Round tables, whether they’re side tables or large dining tables, look best with round floor coverings underneath them. Choose an option with the same shape as the table to unify the look of the room. Also, ensure that the carpet is proportionate to the table itself. Keep in mind that rectangular carpets tend to work best in living rooms and sitting areas where furniture is clustered together.
Don’t Be Afraid to Cover Hardwood Floors
Many people think that, because they have hardwood floors, they cannot use a floor covering. While the decision to cover a hardwood floor is entirely up to the homeowner, they should never feel discouraged from using a floor covering. The right pattern and color will enhance the natural beauty of the wood and pull the room together in a way that would otherwise not be easy to achieve.
Use a Non-Slip Pad
When carpets are placed on hardwood, tile, or vinyl floors, they tend to slide around. Use a non-slip pad to keep the area rug in place without damaging the floors with adhesive strips or glue. This makes it possible to move the floor covering without damaging the finish of the floors underneath the carpet. Best of all, the non-slip pad provides an added layer of cushion, making the floor covering that much more comfortable to walk on.
Layer Area Rugs on Top of Carpet
Just because a room has wall-to-wall carpeting doesn’t mean it can’t benefit from a decorative runner or floor covering. Large spaces of plain carpeting can wash out furniture and reduce the impact that interior design elements have on the space. Adding bold patterns or colors to the floor can help break up those plain spaces.
Don’t settle for boring flooring. Add color and pattern with a decorative floor covering and enhance the impact of the room’s interior design elements.