subject: Living room Area rugs 101 - what you should know [print this page] Living room Area rugs 101 - what you should know
Adding living room area rugs to your decor is comparable to adding the perfect jewelry to an outfit. You can literally change the whole look of a room simply by adding a rug. Area rugs can add a splash of color to a drab room, or blend in with your decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. They can be the center of attention and even create a separate conversation area in a larger living room.
Budget
While your budget plays a big role in the living room area rug you can purchase, don't let it totally restrict your choices. An area rug can be quite expensive, try to choose a rug that you will be happy with a year or two from now. And, purchase the very best rug that you can afford. A bargain is only a bargain if it's still a good quality product.
Rug Size
There are several general rules pertaining to rug size. If you want to use a room size rug, there should be at least one foot of space between the walls and the sides of the rug. If you want to place furniture on the rug, at least one third of the furniture should be sitting on the rug. A lot of styles work well underneath a coffee table, but all four legs should be placed on the rug.
Color
Area rugs, especially large ones are often the biggest splash of color. If you are re-decorating the entire living room, choose your rug first and then purchase furniture that blends in with the rugs colors and designs. It's perfectly fine to mix different patterns as long as the colors are coordinated.
You can make a small living room look larger simply by using light colored rugs or rugs with small designs. Likewise, area rugs in deeper colors make the room seem more cozy and intimate. If you are shopping for a area rug to add to an existing decor, select one that has at least one color that will compliment the other furnishings.
Shape
Don't let yourself get trapped into thinking that you need a rectangular rug. Let your style set the rules for the shape of the living room area rug that you purchase. If you want to add a touch of elegance or flair to the room, choose rugs that have an octagonal or circular shape. And, don't be afraid to mix various sizes of rugs that compliment each other.
Material and Durability
Nylon fabrics are perfect if you want a rug that is durable, versatile and easy to maintain. The most stain resistant material if polypropylene or olefin. Living room area rugs that are made of acrylic are ideal for rooms with lot's of windows. They're resistant to fading, mildew and stains. Wool is a good choice if you want a rug that is both durable and soft. But, it might not be the best choice if you or someone else in the home has allergies.
Whether you place your living room area rug on a bare floor, or on top of wall to wall carpet, you can extend the life of your rug with a rug pad. When you walk across the rug it causes friction which results in wearing on the bottom of the rug. A rug pad will give you some extra cushioning and keep your rug looking it's best longer.
There are a lot of standard design rules when it comes to home decorating. But, the most important thing you need to remember is that you have to love your home. If you are totally happy with the look, go for it. If you can look at your room week after week and still say you like it, then you've chosen the perfect living room area rug.
