Recently I selected a decorative floor rug for a client’s lounge area, aiming to add instant warmth, colour, and charm to there living space.  Before I began my search, I needed my client to answer these fundamental questions:

(1) What is your budget for a decorative rug? 

Depending on the size, brand and composition of the rug, rugs can cost $600 and up into the thousands. Wool rugs are at the top end and polyester are at the lower end. Combinations like wool and cotton or wool and polyester can be more affordable and are in the middle range.

 

(2) How big is your lounge area and where do you want to place the rug?

To look right, the rug size must be in proportion to the size of your lounge area. To make the space appear larger, sit all furniture on the rug. For a more casual look, just put the front legs of your sofa and chairs on the rug to anchor the space. A floating rug can also work as long as it’s in proportion to the furniture.

       

 

(3) What is the style and colour of you’re existing furniture and furnishings? Do you want your rug to be the focal point of your lounge room or be neutral and blend in with the room?

If your furniture and furnishings are neutral, you really are not limited by the style and colour and can choose from a vast array of rugs. If you’re existing furniture and accessories are hard to match, consider a customised rug. If you are creating a new interior scheme for you’re living area, select a rug that you fall in love with, as you would when choosing a painting. The rug will be the inspiration to decorate your lounge area, and you can select the furniture, furnishings and accessories to tie in with the rug style and colours.

 

(4) Are you aware of the best rug composition for a lounge area? 

The most durable and hardwearing rugs for a lounge area are wool and synthetic. Both are available in a large variety of colours and are easy to clean. For a more casual look, consider rugs made out of bamboo, sisal, hemp, jute and seagrass. Bamboo is available in a variety of colours, and sisal, hemp, jute and seagrass are available in natural colours.

(5) What style of rugs do you prefer?

Rugs are available in twisted, loop, plush and textured finishes. For a contemporary, casual lounge area twisted, loop and textured piles are popular. For a more formal lounge area luxurious plush piles are suitable. If you have a pet that sheds hair consider a twist pile. A textured pile will add interest to your room and will have a contemporary feel.