An area rug can be a great addition to any living room, not only for its functionality but also for its aesthetic appeal. A great area rug is cozy, plush and makes the space feel warmer and cozier. But with so many colors and patterns to choose from, selecting the right rug color for your living room can be challenging. In this post, I’ll provide you with 8 tips on how to choose the perfect rug color that will complement your living room’s decor and create an inviting atmosphere.
Consider the Existing Color Scheme in the Living Room
When choosing a rug color for your living room, you want to make sure it complements the existing color scheme. Take into account the colors of your walls, furniture, and accessories. Choose a rug color that harmonizes with the existing colors in your living room. For example, if your living room is decorated in neutral tones, choose a rug color that has the same undertones. This will create a cohesive look in your living room. Make sure the rug matches the rest of the room.
Also look at the color of the flooring int he room. The color scheme for a rug for a home with dark wood hardwood is going to be different than the home that has beige floor carpet installed.
Recently vintage rugs have been really popular because they have a few different colors that you can easily bring into the space. They also have a distressed pattern so the rug doesn’t become overbearing
Tip: A good place to start is to create a moodboard with the paint color, couches, coffee table etc. A moodboard is an image of all the elements in the space. If you’re just swapping out the rug, it’s a lot easier to see it on the computer before committing to any rug.
Select a Neutral Area Rug
If you’re not sure what color to choose, go neutral. Neutral rugs can blend in with any color scheme and style of furniture. Shades of beige, gray, and cream are great options for a neutral rug. These colors can also create a calming effect in your living room, making it a great place to unwind after a long day. I used this rug in my own living room to let the wainscotting accent wall be the feature of this long living room.
Add a Pop of Color to create a focal point
If your living room is decorated with neutral colors, you can add a pop of color with a bright or bold rug. Look for rugs with bright colors like blue, green, or pink that can add some personality and vibrancy to your living room. A pop of color can also create a focal point in your living room and draw attention to the rug. Also try out different patterns. A geometric patterned rug with bright colors will scream bolder than a distressed area rug.
Think About the Size of the Room
The size of your living room can also impact your choice of rug color. If your living room is small, consider choosing a lighter-colored rug that can make the space appear larger. For larger living rooms, darker-colored rugs can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. In general, choose a rug that is proportional to the size of your living room and the furniture in it.
Tips on picking the right size rug for your living room
– Pick a rug that leaves a 10-12″ border of the flooring underneath (whether it’s hardwood, vinyl, tile or even carpet). A rug that is TOO big always looks awkward. It should not span wall to wall.
– Try to get at least the front 2 feet of the couches on to the rug. To create a more intimate setting, place the entire piece of furniture on the rug.
– Don’t be afraid to tape your rug size on the floor to get a feel for different rug sizes. Painter’s tape is such a versatile tool in home design.
What material is the made from?
The material of the rug can also impact the color. For example, woollen rugs often have deeper and richer colors, while synthetic rugs tend to have brighter and more vibrant colors. Consider the texture and feel of the rug as well. A shaggy rug in a neutral color can add a cozy and inviting touch to your living room.
Also, if you have kids, you should be looking at rugs that easy to clean and washable. There are so many options for rugs that can be washed directly at home. I always find woollen and shaggy rugs are much more difficult to clean. Woollen and shaggy rugs really eat up the direct since the fibers are longer.
If you have allergies, avoid a shaggy rug. You should look for a low pile rug
Experiment with Patterns
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also consider rugs with patterns. Look for patterns that complement the colors in your living room, and choose a rug size that matches the scale of your furniture. A patterned rug can add visual interest to your living room and create a unique and personalized look.
There are so many different types of patterns. Some are more subtle like a distressed vintage style, whereas others are bolder with a geometric pattern
Who is the living room used by?
I also think about who will be using this living room 80% of the time. If you have younger kids, it is okay to go with a more fun and whimsical pattern on the living room rug. Kids love color! If the living room is for more sophisticated adults or empty nesters, you can opt for neutral colors (but you don’t have to!)
If you share the space with pets, consider a low pile rug that won’t hold a lot of pet hair.
Choosing the perfect color rug for your living room doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking into account the existing color scheme, room size, material, and pattern, you can choose a rug color that will complement your living room’s style and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose a neutral color, add a pop of color, or experiment with patterns, the right rug can transform your living room into a warm and welcoming space.
I’m using these tips to select the perfect rug for my mom’s living room. I will be making it over in the One Room Challenge.
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