Rugs are like the unsung heroes of home design. They’re not just about comfort—they can pull a room together, define spaces, and set the entire tone of a room’s design. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece to anchor your living room or a functional rug to handle high traffic in the hallway, there’s a perfect style for every need. But with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Below, we’ve outlined 10 popular rug styles to help you find the best fit for your home.
Persian Rugs
Persian rugs are classics for a reason. Hand-knotted with intricate patterns, they are known for their vibrant colors and detailed designs, which make each piece a true work of art. They’re often made of high-quality wool or silk, which means they can last for decades (if not longer) with proper care. A Persian rug instantly elevates any space, making it feel sophisticated and layered.
Best For: Traditional, eclectic, and bohemian interiors. They’re also an excellent fit for adding a touch of elegance to contemporary spaces.
Notable Feature: Persian rugs are highly durable and appreciate value over time.
Floral 10×14 Kashan Persian Area Rug – rugsource.com
Shag Rugs
The epitome of cozy comfort, shag rugs have a thick, plush pile that’s just begging you to sink your feet into. These rugs are available in a range of materials, from durable synthetic fibers to plush, high-quality wool, making them ideal for spaces where you want to establish a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Just be mindful—they can be a bit of a pain to clean if you have pets or small kids.
Best For: Mid-century modern, boho, and eclectic styles. Shag rugs also pair well with contemporary interiors where you want to soften the look.
Notable Feature: Super soft texture ideal for bedrooms and lounge areas.
Shaggy Curves Rug – rugsusa.com
Flatweave Rugs
Flatweave rugs, as the name suggests, are thin, flat rugs woven on a loom. They’re lightweight, reversible, and often feature geometric patterns or bold colors. Their slim profile suits high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, or entryways. Plus, they’re easy to roll up and move around as needed, which is great for changing up your decor.
Best For: Modern, Scandinavian, and casual spaces. They’re also perfect for layering under furniture since they don’t add bulk.
Notable Feature: Easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for busy households.
Striped Border Indoor Outdoor Flatweave Rug – rugsusa.com
Round Rugs
Round rugs are ideal for breaking up the monotony of straight lines in a room filled with rectangular furniture. They create a focal point and can help anchor spaces like dining areas or seating arrangements. Opt for a round rug if you want to add visual interest to your layout without overpowering other design elements.
Best For: Dining rooms, small nooks, and rooms where you want to introduce a sense of flow. Round rugs work well with modern, bohemian, and traditional styles.
Notable Feature: Great for softening sharp edges in a room and adding a sense of movement.
Southwestern Abstract Fringed Rug – rugsusa.com
Performance Rugs
Performance rugs are your go-to if you’re looking for something that can withstand spills, stains, and heavy foot traffic. Constructed from synthetic fibers such as polypropylene or recycled plastics, these rugs are built to be highly durable and easy to care for. They’re great for families with kids or pets or for high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
Best For: Busy households, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. They fit well in transitional and contemporary homes where functionality is key.
Notable Feature: Stain-resistant and often washable, making them a breeze to keep clean.
Aster Performance Rug – arhaus.com
Jute Rugs
Jute rugs are all about texture. Made from natural fibers, these rugs bring any space a laid-back, organic vibe. They come in neutral tones and are known for their chunky, woven appearance. While they’re not the softest underfoot, they’re durable and add a warm, rustic feel to your home.
Best For: Coastal, farmhouse, and rustic interiors. They also blend well with boho styles due to their natural look.
Notable Feature: Sustainable and eco-friendly, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Faley Jute Rug, Natural Blue – onekingslane.com
Overdyed Rugs
Overdyed rugs are all about bold colors. These rugs start as traditional Persian or Oriental-style rugs that are then saturated with a single, vivid hue. The result is a striking piece that combines old-world charm with a modern twist. They’re fantastic for adding a pop of color to a neutral room without feeling too busy.
Best For: Contemporary, eclectic, and bohemian spaces. Overdyed rugs also work as statement pieces in minimalist rooms.
Notable Feature: Eye-catching colors that can serve as a room’s focal point.
Over-Dyed Handmade Kashan Persian Area Rug 9×11 – rugsource.com
Moroccan Rugs
Moroccan rugs typically feature geometric patterns in black and white or neutral tones. These hand-woven wool rugs are known for their simple yet striking designs, which blend well with almost any decor style. Their versatility and timeless appeal make them popular for living rooms and bedrooms.
Best For: Mid-century modern, Scandinavian, and bohemian interiors. They’re also perfect for adding a touch of pattern to minimalist spaces.
Notable Feature: The perfect mix of texture and pattern that’s both subtle and impactful.
Fences Wool Moroccan Rug – dwr.com
Antique Rugs
If you’re looking for a rug with character and history, an antique rug is an investment worth considering. These rugs are often handmade and can be over 100 years old. They feature intricate designs and a patina that only time can create. An antique rug brings a sense of heritage and story to any room.
Best For: Traditional, vintage, and eclectic interiors. When used as a statement piece, they can also add depth to modern spaces.
Notable Feature: Unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that add an element of rarity and luxury.
Tan Antique Chinese Art Deco Designed Handmade Wool Rug – chairish.com
Square Rugs
Square rugs are less common but perfect for rooms with a balanced, symmetrical look. They work exceptionally well in square-shaped rooms or as a base under square dining tables. Choose a square rug to create defined zones in larger spaces.
Best For: Modern, contemporary, and transitional styles. Square rugs are also great for creating symmetry in open floor plans.
Notable Feature: Offers a clean, structured look that’s perfect for defining spaces.
Softest Knit Wool Rug – rugsusa.com
Outdoor Rugs
Crafted to withstand severe weather conditions, outdoor rugs are perfect for porches, patios, and decks. Typically constructed from resilient materials like polypropylene, they resist moisture, mold, and fading. What’s more, outdoor rugs have evolved significantly in style, offering patterns and colors that rival the elegance of indoor options.
Best For: Outdoor patios, porches, and even indoor spaces like sunrooms. They fit well in coastal, bohemian, and transitional styles.
Notable Feature: Weather-resistant and easy to clean, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Taraji Herringbone Indoor Outdoor Rug – rugsusa.com
Runner Rugs
Runner rugs are long and narrow, excellent for entryways, hallways, and kitchen spaces. They add warmth and color to narrow spaces while protecting flooring in high-traffic areas. Choose a bold pattern or bright color runner to make your hallway feel more inviting.
Best For: Transitional, eclectic, and modern styles. Runners can also be used to add visual interest to traditional homes.
Notable Feature: Perfect for narrow spaces where a standard rug wouldn’t fit.
Aiden Performance Runner Rug – arhaus.com
Complete Your Space with the Right Rug
Choosing the right rug can elevate your home’s decor and transform any space. With so many styles to explore, from timeless Persian rugs to cozy shags, there’s a perfect match for every room. Use this guide as a starting point to find the rug that ties your room together and enhances your home’s overall aesthetic.
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing a rug for my home?
- When choosing a rug, consider factors like the room’s function, foot traffic, material, size, and style. For high-traffic areas, go for durable materials like wool or performance rugs. In living rooms, ensure your rug complements the decor while defining seating areas.
What size rug should I choose for my living room?
- For living rooms, the rug should be large enough to fit all furniture front legs on it or fully encompass your seating area. Typically, a 5×8 or 8×10 rug works well in most setups, but measuring your space before purchasing is key.
How do I clean and maintain my rug?
- Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning are essential for maintaining most rugs. For delicate materials like silk or high-pile shag rugs, consider professional cleaning. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before attempting any deep cleaning.
What are the best rugs for families with kids and pets?
- Performance rugs, flatweave, and indoor-outdoor rugs are excellent choices. These rugs are easy to clean, stain-resistant, and durable enough to withstand high-traffic areas. Opt for darker colors and patterns to hide spills and stains.
What rug style works best in a small space?
- For small spaces, choose lighter colors and simple patterns to make the room feel larger. Round or square rugs are great for defining zones without overwhelming the space. Consider flatweave or low-pile options to avoid adding bulk.
The Curated Showhouse
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