5 questions to have in mind when shopping for rugs

A designer rug isn’t simply an aesthetic addition to the home, it’s an investment. The right rug brings cohesion while adding warmth and comfort.

With many styles, sizes and materials available, there are a few questions to keep in mind to ensure you buy the right Moroccan Rug for your home.

What space is the rug for?

You don’t want to buy a designer rug without first considering where in your home it will live. 

Room layout will impact what rug size will fit best. This can vary greatly depending on whether the rug is for a dining room or living room for example

Consider if the space is a high-traffic area of your home, which may require a more durable rug. If it’s in the kitchen or dining room, you’ll want a rug that’s stain resistant. If you are buying a rug for the bedroom, your main priority might be adding softness underfoot. 

Whether the rug is intended to be placed in a formal dining room or a children’s playroom will greatly impact the type of rug you choose, so always keep in mind where the rug is going to live when shopping. 

What size do you need?

When considering what size is best, the space the rug is intended for may help determine the right size of rug you require. Is it a big open space living area or a smaller bedroom or study?

The right size rug can make a room feel bigger. For a hallway, you’ll want a long, narrow runner that draws the eyes forward, whereas, for a living room, you may want a large rug to cover as much of the space as possible to tie elements of the space together 

To create a unique look, choose a few smaller rugs and layer them. There’s no rule that says you can’t have more than one rug in a room, especially if you have a larger open-plan area. Multiple smaller rugs can be used to help define different areas within an open-plan space. 

What is your home decor style?

A rug adds style and colour to a space, but before buying one you want to think about the existing decor in your home. 

Bear in mind, the overall style you are hoping to achieve when shopping for a new rug. 

Consider the design aesthetics and how they will fit in with your home. Do you want a rug that blends with the existing style, or do you want something that makes a statement and creates contrast? 

Traditional Persian rugs often feature floral motifs and intricate border details, while modern rug designs include more contemporary design elements such as asymmetrical and abstract patterns. You can match your rug to your decor and home design, with a traditional rug for a formal space, or a bright and bold rug for a more eclectic space. 

For the best of both worlds, transitional rug designs often mix traditional motif with contemporary elements. 

If you have a minimal style, you could choose a rug as a feature piece, to create a striking look. Keep in mind, however, your rug doesn’t need to match everything else in your home, especially if you’re looking to give the space a fresh update. But as buying a designer rug can be an investment it is worth asking yourself if you will still love it in a few years. 

The style of rug you choose comes down to personal preference as well as the overall design vision you have for your home. 

How much maintenance does it require?

You may want to consider your lifestyle and how much maintenance a rug will require before investing. All rugs require some level of care and maintenance, whether professional cleaning or at-home. 

Your rug choice may be determined by your lifestyle. If you have young children or pets, you may not want lightly coloured rugs that will easily show marks and stains. You don’t want to spend a fortune on a pristine white rug only to flinch every time your toddler steps onto it. 

As well as colours, look for low maintenance materials that can be cleaned easily. Wool or wool-blend rugs are generally quite durable and hard-wearing, making them a good option for high traffic areas or children’s bedrooms. 

High-quality rugs can be extremely long-lasting, though just keep in mind, no matter what rug you choose, it will still require some level of maintenance to ensure it retains its beautiful appearance. 

Do you need a rug mat?

If you’re going to invest in a high-quality rug, then a rug mat is essential. 

Rug mats can help extend the lifespan of your rug by protecting the flooring and preventing movement and bunching. 

Consider what type of flooring your rug will be sitting on, as some rug mats are made specifically to go on wooden floors or carpets. If it’s going to be sitting on a hardwood floor, a rug pad will minimise slipping and provide additional insulation and cushioning. 

Rug pads can be purchased for common sizes, or they can be cut to size to fit your new designer rug perfectly.