Home is where the heart is, and nothing completes a home better than fine craftsmanship and organic materials. Today’s world is all about sustainability and eco-friendliness, and so it should come as no surprise that the rug industry has been evolving towards sustainability as well.
Rugs have the power to turn a bland room into something special, not only injecting colour to a space, but also adding warmth and homeliness to your home. They can be used to tie a room together, tone down a cluttered living space, and can divide large open plan spaces into cosier areas.
Investing in a sustainably-sourced rug, is not only good for the environment, but the high-quality materials also ensure longevity and durability. We design and handcraft rugs using sustainable materials like Cotton, Jute and Wool, making our rugs the perfect addition to any home.
But, once you have chosen the perfect rug for your space, it’s essential to style it appropriately, so it looks amazing in every room. With that in mind, let’s explore how to style rugs in different rooms.
Living room rugs
The central hub of the home, a large rug for the living room can act as an anchor for the room, making it feel cosy. Whether you want to add a layer of warmth and comfort to your living room, or to create a carpeted feel on hardwood flooring, rugs are a perfect way to add a much needed layer of comfort to the home.
Opting for large living room rugs make the room appear more streamlined and spacious. Avoid smaller rugs, which can make the space appear cluttered and small.
Place a living room rugs, like Eyton and Moor, under your coffee table in the centre of your living room, celebrating the rich heritage woven into these pieces. This positioning of the rug and furniture, makes for a cleaner and more aesthetic appearance, whilst bringing the individual components together for a cohesive design.
If your living room is rich with patterns, choose a rug like Nash or Exton, with a simple design. If your sofa and walls have a neutral colour palette, you can choose a rug with a bolder pattern or brighter colours, like Oxnam, Brix or Fleet, to add visual interest.
Toft Hand Woven Jute Rug - Natural (Image Supplied by @whererobynresides)
Dining room
The dining room is all about gatherings and conversations, so you want a rug that can anchor the space and create a sense of comfort. A dining room rug can instantly add warmth and elegance, tying the room together.
A jute or wool rug can add texture and depth to space, while a patterned rug can bring colour and excitement to a neutral space. Make sure that the rug you choose is large enough to accommodate your dining table and chairs, even when they are pulled away from the table.
Choose a dining room rug that either complements the existing colour palette and patterns or serves as a focal point by contrasting with existing furniture and décor. For example, infuse your neutral space with the organic hues and serene cream shades of Wimble or contrast grayscale colours with the earthy tones and natural fibres of Keal.
As the dining room is a high traffic area, be sure to choose a rug that is easy to clean and maintain. For more information on maintaining rugs, visit our dedicated page.
Oxnam Hand Woven Jute Rug - Natural & Teal (Image Supplied by @1930s_doer_upper)
Bedroom
A bedroom rug provides comfort underfoot and can add extra warmth during colder months. The type of rug will depend on the room’s décor, but a large wool rug can provide a comfy place to sit while reading a book or winding down for the night. A medium rug in a soothing colour like pink, cream or white, can add a cosy and relaxed vibe to this space, and fluffy bedroom rugs, like Brae or Forres, also create a warm and cosy aesthetic.
For a more elegant look, a large bedroom rug with a simplistic and streamlined design can elevate the entire room’s aesthetic. When choosing a rug for the bedroom, it’s important to consider the size of the bed and leave a few inches of space on all sides, to keep the room looking balanced and cohesive.
Errol Hand Knotted Wool Rug - Natural & Grey (Image Supplied by Andy Haslam)
Kitchen
Kitchen rugs are all about practicality because spills and stains are inevitable, making natural, organic materials the perfect choice - cotton rugs are soft, lightweight, and easy to maintain, making them ideal for kitchens and children's rooms.
Choose a rug that's smaller than your counter space to avoid any tripping hazards. Try a small jute or cotton rug in front of the sink or stove to add warmth and texture to the room. A small rug under a kitchen table also adds a unique touch and can break up the hard lines of a square kitchen.
Darker rugs like Elcho or Cubitt, can add a pop of colour to a neutral kitchen, or a white rug, like Vale, can brighten up a darker kitchen. You can also choose a rug with patterns, like Alva, Barbican or Braco, that mimic tiles or concrete for a cohesive look.
Children's room
A rug in a children's room serves both practical and aesthetic purposes, providing a comfortable play area while contributing to the overall design. Opting for a playful and vibrant rug, like Emlyn or Hyde, can create an engaging atmosphere, stimulating creativity and imagination.
For a cosy reading nook, a medium-sized rug in soft hues can establish a tranquil and inviting space. Additionally, explore rugs with soft but durable materials, like Jute and Cotton, ensuring they can withstand the inevitable spills and playtime activities. For more information on maintenance see our page.
To maintain a balanced look, choose a children's room rug that complements the room's dimensions, leaving ample space around furniture. Whether it's a vibrant theme or a more neutral design, the right rug can tie together the elements of a children's room, creating a comfortable and visually appealing environment.
Hallway
The hallway is often the first area guests see, so it's essential to make a good impression. Choose a rug that can withstand daily foot traffic and add warmth to the space. Moroccan or Berber-style rugs, like Forres, in neutral colours like beige, cream, and grey can make a small hallway feel wider and brighter. You can also add a pop of colour with a light blue rug for a vibrant and energetic feel.
Keal Hand Woven Jute Rug - Natural (Image Supplied by @painted_goose)
Home office
In a home office, a rug can delineate a space, creating a separate area from the rest of your home. A rug can also add texture and colour to space, making it more comfortable and inviting. A jute or cotton rug can add a touch of bohemian chic, while a wool rug will add more warmth and luxury.
When styling your home office with a handcrafted rug, make sure to choose a rug that complements your décor. If your office has a lot of patterns, choose a rug with a more subdued design.
Octon Hand Woven Jute Rug - Natural & Dark Brown (Image Supplied by Andy Haslam)
Styling rugs around your home is all about taking the time to choose the right type of rug and placement, depending on the room. Rugs handcrafted from sustainable materials, offer plenty of benefits, including their durability, longevity, and the comfortable feeling they bring to a space.
So, whether you're looking to add warmth in your bedroom or practicality in the kitchen, investing in a high-quality, sustainable rug can be the perfect addition to your home décor. Ensure that when you do purchase a rug, you take into consideration what the rug is made of and how it was made, ensuring that you are also doing your part in being environmentally conscious.