The Art of Layering Rugs: Adding Depth to Your Décor📔

Sep 20, 2023by Sarah Hopson

A Colourful Patterned Rug

Rugs play an important role in interior design. Most people see it as a single piece of woven cloth on the floor. If you already have rugs in your home and are thinking about giving your rooms a decorative touch, here’s what we suggest: Layer them.

Layering rugs is a design technique that adds texture, depth, and visual interest to a space. It's a creative way to transform a room and give it a cosy feeling with an inviting atmosphere. Layering rugs is not just about placing one on top of another. It’s a way to spice things up and impress your guests. 

One of the best things about layered rugs in home décor is that they provide flexibility. You can easily switch out or update one of the rugs to give your space a fresh look without a major overhaul.

Things to Consider When Layering Rugs

It might sound simple to layer rugs, but there are some design principles you need to consider. Let's take a look at them:

  • Size Matters: Your rug’s size is the first thing you need to focus on. The base rug should be larger so that the top rug creates symmetry. 
  • Textures: Layering rugs allow you to introduce different textures into a room. For example, pairing a plush rug with a natural fibre rug.
  • Colour: The colour palette of the rugs should complement each other and the overall décor and colour scheme of the room. You have two choices here: Complementary colours for a simple look or monochromatic colours for an elegant and harmonious look. 
  • Layering Styles: You can place a smaller rug with an elaborate pattern on a simple rug or a plane rug on a rug with a thick border. 

Now that you know how to layer rugs effectively, let’s take a look at some ideas:

5 Rug Layering Ideas

Bohemian Bliss

Your home's unconventional décor allows you to embrace the boho-chic trend. Layer rugs with intricate patterns, vibrant colours, and a mix of textures to create a popping look. For example, you can pair a kilim rug with a Persian-style rug to give the living room a cosy look. 

Wrap and Rug

There was a time when carpeted rooms were quite popular. However, due to allergens and other problems, they faded out. Thanks to organic materials, they have made a comeback. 

A wall-to-wall carpet gives a boring look. This is why you should consider using rugs to define different areas. For example, if your dining room and living room share a floor, you can separate them with rugs to create landing zones. 

Shape or No Shape

The smaller rug’s size does not necessarily have to match the bottom rug’s size. To make the layering look more fun, go for abstract patterns. For a more relaxed and informal look, you can place the smaller rug off-centre. This asymmetrical arrangement adds a touch of quirkiness to your decor.

More Than Two

Who says two rugs are enough? You can go with as many as you want but in similar colours and patterns. Pick the top rugs from the same category and place them on the larger rug. For example, the base rug can be rectangular with three round Swedish (shaggy Ryas or flat-woven Rollakans) rugs on top.

Be Messy

If you are thinking about covering a long, narrow space, being messy is one of the best rug layering ideas. Simply throw one rug on top of another in a carefree manner. Make sure all the rugs are of the same size and overlap each other.

The art of layering rugs combines informal creativity and formal colour principles. It allows you to create balance and gives your interior a unique touch. Whether you are aiming for a polished and chic look or a relaxed vibe, rug layering can be a great way to complement your décor. So, don't hesitate to experiment and make your space truly yours through the magic of layered rugs.

Get Handwoven Rugs for Your Home

Quality is the cornerstone of The Rugs. We source the finest materials, from premium wool to silk, to offer our customers quality rugs that are not only beautiful but durable too. Whether you are seeking a rug that complements your existing decor or one that becomes the room’s focal point, our designs will leave a lasting impression.

Related Blog Posts

Blogs

Interior Design Guides

How to Decorate Art Deco

How Art Deco Can Make Your Interiors Better

Related Rug Collections

Wool Rugs

Shaggy Rugs

Scandi Rugs


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.