blog 3. Grounding Your Space
An area rug is not only an integral element to ground or define a space, but it can really set the tone for the entire room. I have always been a firm believer in everything begins with the area rug. Weather you are designing a brand new space, or giving some love to an old one, it is best to start with the single element that will tie everything together- the area rug.
As beautiful as rugs are, the main goal with a rug is actually function. There are two elements that are integral to the function of you area rug. The first being the fibre content and characteristics of your area rug because they will provide the necessary qualities in order to hold up in whichever space it will live in. The second, if not the most important is the size of the area rug. Area rugs are an investment, and the larger they are, obviously the higher in cost. However if an area rug is too small, it will throw off the entire flow and feel to the room. There are a few guidelines when selecting a size of area rug for your space.
- In a living space, make sure the front two legs of the main furniture piece are on the rug. Leaving a rug floating in the middle of a space will separate the zone you are trying to create.
- The rug needs to be dominant, but we do not want it to completely cover the floor below. Try keeping 12-18 inches between the rug and the wall.
- For a bedroom, it is typical to use an 8x10 for a queen and a 9x12 for under a king. Regardless of the bed size, you want to have a substantial landing spot for your feet when you get out of bed, ideally 18 inches minimum, without extending past the nightstands.
Take a look at these great graphics from Studio McGee which are a great tool for selecting the proper size of an area rug.
The final tip when investing in a new area rug is INVEST IN A HIGH QUALITY UNDER PAD. This will not only make your rug more comfortable but it will actually prolong the life of your area rug and keep it in place. There are different types of under pads depending on what the substrate is below, so keep that in mind when purchasing.
Rugs are an essential part to any space, whether it be a dramatic bamboo silk in a living room, a hyde in an office or a stunning second life runner down a long hallway. Select something that is timeless and that you absolutely love - just make sure the content and size work with that space as well.
Erica Sharp - Designer