Rugs can make a massive difference to a space. They can add texture and warmth, bring a room together or create a particular mood.
Rugs can also be works of art that are a great way to add colour and character to your home.
We are so lucky to be able to shop online and have access to a huge range of rugs. But that can also be overwhelming!
Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about a rug for your space.
1. Size and shape: the first thing to determine is where you want your rug and what you want it to do. You might want a rug to cover an entire area, or to give definition to a space within a room. Think about the shape as well: do you want a runner, a round or a rectangular shape? If you’re not sure, get a sheet or a blanket and play around with the space to figure out what size and position you like.
2. Colour: a rug is a great way to lift a room and create an impact. Think about what you want to achieve when thinking about colour. Do you want to make a bedroom a bit more cosy using softer colours, or give your entrance hall some pop with bolder tones? Maybe you want a more natural and earthy look?
3. Life/Style: now that you are thinking about colours you should also be thinking about your style… and your lifestyle. Do you have young kids? Are pets chasing them up and down the hallway? Are you looking for something elegant to emphasise a room or a special furniture piece or are you softening the sound in the TV room where the family spends a lot of time? No matter what your style, there will be a rug to suit so give yourself some guidelines.
4. Quality: check out the density (number of knots) to determine value, with a general rule being that more knots equals better quality. Natural materials like wool or silk usually mean better quality as well, though there is a big difference between a wool blend and a 100% wool from New Zealand which is considered the best for rugs. Handmade rugs also tend to produce a better result than machine made.
5. Reputation: it’s important to check out any online sellers to be sure they are secure and trustworthy. You may also want to check out where the business you are buying from is based (preferably in Australia!); be sure to look at shipping and returns policies.
Buying a rug can be a big investment. If you are shopping online, make sure you are dealing with a reputable company that values authenticity and good quality design.
Image - Stephen Kent Johnson (www.giancarlovalle.com)
