Before You Shop for a Rug: A Short Guide
You home’s interior design exists as a reflection of your personality. The furniture, color schemes, and personal knickknacks you put on display tell a story about you, and invite those who come into your home to appreciate you on a personal level. The rug you buy to complement a room also speaks to your individual style, therefore it isn’t always a simple purchase. If you’re looking for the right rug to enhance the “Wow Factor” of any room, here’s a good checklist to keep with you as you search your local rug and carpeting stores.
Colors: What color scheme dominates the room you plan to decorate? It may not always do to go into a store and tell the design expert that the walls are red – what shade of red is the paint? Perhaps the walls are lined with a patterned wallpaper and you want to bring out one specific color, too. When you shop, bring swatches, throw pillows, paint chips, and anything else from the room with you for color matching. You will have an easier time comparing colors.
Room size: Rugs come in different shapes and sizes, as do the rooms that will house them. Do not go into a store will only a vague idea of the room’s size. Measure the space first, and bring the data with you so the rug expert can better narrow down your options.
Design of the rug: Do you have a particular design in mind? Do you want a center medallion, or an allover pattern, or just a simple, solid color rug? Ask to see examples of all possibilities.
Type of rug: Rugs may be machine made, hand knotted, hooked, or created by flat weave. If you have a specific type in mind, let the rug expert know so he/she can better assist you.
What rug for what room? Be sure to take into consideration factors such as high traffic areas, bathrooms, or barefoot areas where texture will matter. The rug you buy for your living room may not be the same one you’d get for your bedroom.
Thickness of the rug: Will your doors have to clear the rug when you open them? It’s a good idea to measure the space between the door and the floor to help you find the right thickness in your rug.
Once you have the information you need, you can make an informed decision on the color, style, and size to buy.
