When moving into a new home, renovating, or redesigning a room, it can be tricky to decide whether flooring should be one of the first decisions you make or left until the end. We believe it's essential to have a clear vision of the overall aesthetic you want and select your carpet or rug to reflect that. If you're wondering how to choose the right carpet and build your space around it, keep reading.
Carpets are a long-term investment, so it’s important to choose a style and feel that resonates with you now and in the future. Avoid following fleeting trends that might feel outdated in a few years. Opting for classic carpets ensures they’ll stand the test of time, as they have for centuries.
That said, you can still have fun with your selections. It’s easier to change a carpet’s placement when you want to restyle a room. Rugs, kilims, and other flatweaves are a simple way to add a pop of color or create a focal point. You can move them from one room to another when you feel like a change. Think of carpets as artwork—our contemporary rugs are designed to be statement pieces that bring life to your floors.
We’re here to guide you on how to choose carpets that fit your style and complement your space. Below are a few factors to consider when designing a room that incorporates a carpet or rug.
Comfort and Relaxation
Your home should be a sanctuary where you can unwind and escape from daily stresses. To achieve this, create interiors that promote comfort and relaxation, using materials and tones that evoke a sense of grounding. This will look different for everyone, so think about spaces you've been in that immediately felt like "home" to you. Whether it's a minimalist dining room, a boho-inspired bedroom, or a mid-century modern lounge, identify the look that resonates with you before selecting a carpet or rug.
Choosing the Right Materials
The materials you incorporate are crucial, especially when deciding between natural or synthetic fibers. Natural materials like wool and jute are renewable and offer a sustainable flooring option. Man-made fibers like nylon and polyester are also common, and there are even innovative carpets made from recycled materials.
We’re big fans of the natural feel and aesthetic of wool rugs. They’re breathable, luxurious underfoot, and come in both antique and modern designs to suit a range of styles. For something more contemporary, check out our Transitional Collection, which combines resilient wool with delicate silk patterns and soft pastel tones.
Simplicity vs. Bold Patterns
Choosing between a simple design and a bold pattern depends on the room’s existing decor and furnishings. Many of our modern antique-style rugs feature intricate patterns and rich colors that pair beautifully with wooden furniture and leather couches, creating a harmonious balance.
If you already have bold statement pieces in the room, you might lean towards a more understated rug design or a single-tone patterned option. Remember, simple doesn’t mean boring—there are plenty of high-quality rugs with subtle yet beautiful textures and patterns that don't rely on bold colors to stand out.
Practicality
At the end of the day, your space needs to be functional for you and your family. Keep this in mind when choosing a carpet or rug. If the room is a high-traffic area where kids play or pets run around, you’ll want a carpet that can handle everyday wear and tear.
For instance, a white carpet might not be practical for an entryway or a home with young children prone to spills. When selecting your flooring, consider how resistant it is to stains and how easily it absorbs water. Wool is an excellent choice because it resists staining, absorbs minimal moisture, and is naturally antibacterial—features that may be important to you.
Making the Final Decision
Whether you choose a carpet or rug first or last in your design process depends on the overall look you're aiming for and any statement pieces you’ve already selected. Ultimately, make sure your carpet choice is practical, made from the right materials, and enhances the comfort of your space in a way that works for you and your family.