Choosing the right rug for your space

When choosing a rug, it’s important to consider how the space will be used. Will it be a high use area? Are there children and/or pets in the home? Is it located close to an entrance? All of these will contribute to the performance of the rug. Large rugs unite furniture and make a room feel intentional and cohesive, while small rugs can be playful or dynamic.

In a formal area, the furniture is often placed either partially or fully on the rug if the size allows. In a casual space, the rug may be in a more open space to allow children to play on the rug with the furniture appropriately arranged to suit the use.

When it comes to rug fibres, Laura Furey, managing director of Designer Rugs says: “Wool is the best fibre in a dining area and in fact, all areas of the home. Many of our rugs are produced in New Zealand wool.” This is the preferred fibre due to its durability, sustainability, thermal and flame resistance among other benefits. “Some wool rugs do contain some artificial fibres, such as viscose, which provide highlights and sheen. These are more suited to low use areas, such as bedrooms and formal living spaces,” says Laura. There are many styles available but the selection is ultimately driven by the choices around furniture, art, paint colours and flooring.

“A rug can have a surprisingly big impact on the mood of a room because it affects, colour, texture, scale and even how cosy the space feels,” says Laura. “Warm colours make a room feel energetic, inviting and cosy, versus cool colours that create a calm, relaxing and airy mood. Bold patterns add excitement, personality or drama while neutral, subtle patterns feel grounded, elegant and peaceful.”