Guide to finding the perfect rug

Whether you're furnishing a brand-new home or refreshing a tired room, rugs are one of the most impactful yet often overlooked pieces in interior design. Not only do they anchor your furniture, define your space, and add warmth underfoot, but the right rug can tie your entire aesthetic together - or derail it if not chosen carefully.

From patterns and textures to shapes and sizes, there are countless factors to weigh when buying a rug. In this comprehensive rug style guide, you can find the right rug for your style and space.

Understand the Role of a Rug in Your Room

Before diving into colors and patterns, start with a simple question: What role should the rug play in your space?

• Anchor: Rugs often define zones in an open-concept space. A large rug under a living room set helps designate that area for lounging.
• Statement: Want your rug to be the centerpiece? Choose bold patterns, bright colors, or unique textures to make it stand out.
• Supportive Element: If your furniture or wall art is the focus, opt for a neutral or subdued rug that enhances rather than competes.

Knowing the function of your rug helps narrow your choices and guides all other decisions, from size to color to placement.

Choose the Right Rug Size for Your Room

Featured: Elderland - Washable Rug

Nothing disrupts a beautiful room faster than a rug that’s too small. Here’s a general size guide by room:

Living Room

• All legs on (best for large spaces): The rug should be large enough to fit under all furniture legs.
• Front legs only (more common): At minimum, front legs of your sofa and chairs should sit on the rug.
• Floating: A smaller rug between furniture pieces is acceptable in very compact spaces, but be cautious: it can make the room feel disconnected.

Recommended Sizes:

• Small rooms: 5' x 8'
• Medium rooms: 8' x 10'
• Large rooms: 9' x 12' or larger

Dining Room

Your rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond all sides of the table. This allows chairs to remain on the rug even when pulled out.

Bedroom

Place a rug under the bed that extends on each side:

• Queen bed: 8' x 10' rug
• King bed: 9' x 12' rug

Alternatively, use runners on each side if you prefer not to place a large rug under the bed.

Match the Rug to Your Style

Featured: Perrenton - Rug

Texas homes are known for a mix of traditional, rustic, modern, and Southwestern aesthetics. No matter your style, there’s a rug to suit it.

• Modern Farmhouse: Opt for distressed vintage-style rugs in faded neutrals or soft blues. Turkish or Persian-inspired patterns work well here.
• Rustic Ranch: Cowhide rugs or woven jute pieces bring natural texture to rustic rooms. Warm tones like rust, brown, and cream are ideal.
• Boho or Eclectic: Go bold! Look for layered rugs, tribal prints, or geometric patterns. Moroccan shag rugs are a popular pick.
• Minimalist: Stick to solid colors or simple patterns. A flatweave in neutral tones like beige, grey, or charcoal will seamlessly blend in.
• Traditional Elegance: Ornate Oriental rugs in deep jewel tones or regal reds and blues give a formal, time-honored appeal.
• Coastal or Southwestern: Look for rugs with sky blues or sandy neutrals to reflect the landscape of the Southwest and Gulf.

Consider Rug Material and Durability

Featured: Brentward - Rug

The right material depends on the room’s function, your lifestyle, and even your climate.

• High-Traffic Areas (Entryways, Hallways, Living Rooms): Consider wool (soft, naturally stain-resistant, and long-lasting), polypropylene (budget-friendly and extremely durable) or jute/sisal (great texture but best for low-moisture, low-mess areas).
• Dining Rooms: Flatweaves or low-pile rugs make it easier to clean spills. Avoid high-pile or shag rugs here.
• Bedrooms: Plush materials like wool, viscose, or even faux fur create comfort underfoot.
• Pet and Kid-Friendly Homes: Choose indoor/outdoor rugs or synthetic fibers that are stain-resistant and easy to clean.

And don’t forget Texas weather! In humid or dusty areas, natural fibers may trap allergens or moisture. Synthetics can be a better fit for those conditions.

Don’t Skip the Rug Pad

Even the most beautiful rug won’t feel right if it slips around or bunches up. A quality rug pad:

• Adds cushioning
• Protects your floors
• Keeps the rug in place
• Extends the life of your rug

Choose a rug pad that matches the thickness and size of your rug. For hard surfaces like tile or wood, go for a pad with non-slip grip.

Coordinate Colors with Confidence

Featured: Winderburg - Rug

Choosing the right color can be intimidating, but here are some tips to simplify the process:

• Use your rug as a color anchor: Pick one or two tones from your rug and echo them in pillows, curtains, or art.
• Match the mood: Cool tones (blues, greys) create a calm atmosphere; warm tones (reds, oranges) add energy.
• Go neutral if your décor is bold, or use a colorful rug to liven up neutral furnishings.
• For a foolproof look, build your room around your rug. It’s easier to match upholstery and paint to a rug than vice versa.

Shape Matters Too

Don’t forget about the shape of your rug. It can dramatically affect the layout and visual flow.

• Rectangular rugs are the standard for most spaces. Round rugs soften angular furniture and work beautifully under circular tables or in entryways.
• Runners are great for narrow spaces like hallways, kitchens, and along the sides of beds.
• Try to mirror the shape of your room or furniture for a cohesive feel.

Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Rug

The right rug is more than a floor covering. It’s an investment in comfort, beauty, and functionality. At our Texas furniture stores, we offer a wide variety of rugs to match every style, size, and budget. 

Visit us today in-person or shop online to find the perfect rug for your space. Let’s make your Texas home even more inviting!