How to Get Your Money’s Worth When Buying a Rug for the Home

Rugs can transform the look of a room. Pair a neutral sofa with a rug in bold colors, and you have the beginnings of a space with a midcentury modern theme; change the rug to a black one, and you can build a high-fashion, glamorous look. If you prefer a bohemian vibe, you can use a Moroccan berber rug instead. Rugs are a worthwhile purchase, but they do not come cheap. If you are looking for the perfect rug for your room, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Have a place for your rug before buying one

Think of where you want to place this rug and whether it will be a high-traffic area like a playroom or a hallway. For rugs in busy spaces, you can use a durable material that won't thin out or wear down quickly. In areas like dining rooms or kitchens, flatweave rugs in stain-resistant fiber like wool work best. Choose one with a busy design, so dirt and spills are not as prominent. If you have dogs or children, this is a must.

Be 100 percent sure of the measurements

Think of the standard rug sizes and how they will fit within the room. Typically, rugs are 3-by-5, 5-by-7, 8-by-10, and so on. Measure your room and use painter's tape to approximate where to place your rug in the space, and choose the size that works best with the furniture.

Consider layering rugs if you're on a budget

Put a smaller, more expensive rug over a more affordable one. A hide-on-hair rug over a woven one provides contrast in texture; Beni Ourain rugs look great against a large, flatweave jute rug. Make sure you put together rugs within the same color family or ones that complement the other colors in your room.

Go for vintage rugs from bazaars or flea markets

Vintage rugs are a little more pricey than mass-produced ones, but they infuse a place with a unique personality and vibe. They are also an eco-friendly choice and are sturdier than recently-manufactured ones. You can find vintage rugs at online marketplaces or specialty stores. Local flea markets are also a great place to score some bargains.

Get something bespoke for your home

Consider getting a rug specifically woven for your room. Some Moroccan rug suppliers are open to custom orders; you need to specify that you want something done just for your room. Customized rugs are the perfect solution for people who appreciate a particular aesthetic but cannot seem to find the right size or pattern for their space.

Conclusion

Rugs can change the mood or the ambiance of a room and are an underrated design tool. When choosing a rug for your space, think of how it will look against the rest of the furnishings. Also, consider this room's purpose—a plush, soft rug with long fibers is excellent for the bedroom, but something flat and sturdy is a better fit for the kitchen. Whether you're getting something decorative or functional, it is best to consult a design expert or a professional decorator before purchasing.

For one-of-a-kind, woven Moroccan berber rugs, look no further than Atlas Weavers. We are a fair-trade project featuring the products of local Moroccan indigenous groups. We are determined to bring the best of the Atlas Mountain region soft furnishings to the world. Check out our full catalog or contact us today to learn more!