Layering rugs is a design trend that has gained popularity for its ability to add texture, warmth, and visual interest to any room. It’s a technique that goes beyond simply placing a single rug in a space it involves combining multiple rugs of different sizes, patterns, and textures to create a dynamic, personalized look.
Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement, define areas in an open-plan space, or add comfort and style to a room, mastering the art of layering rugs can elevate your interior design, as highlighted in the following article.
Before diving into the how-to, it’s essential to understand why layering rugs is a beneficial design choice. Here are some reasons to consider this technique:
Add Texture and Depth: Layering rugs introduces various textures and materials to your space, making it feel more inviting and comfortable. It adds depth and dimension, which can transform the look and feel of a room.
Create Visual Interest: Layering allows you to mix patterns, colors, and shapes, resulting in a visually captivating space. It’s an excellent way to showcase your style and creativity.
Define Spaces: In open-plan living areas, layered rugs can help define different zones, such as a seating area, dining space, or reading nook. They create a sense of organization and flow.
Add Warmth: Rugs inherently add warmth to a room. Layering them enhances this effect, making a space feel cozier and more comfortable, especially in large or minimalistic rooms.
Highlight Furniture: Rugs can highlight specific pieces of furniture, such as a coffee table or sofa, making them focal points in a room.
Choosing the Right Rugs to Layer
The Art of Layering Rugs
When layering rugs, selecting the right combination is crucial for achieving a cohesive and balanced look. Here’s how to choose rugs that work well together:
Start with a Base Rug: Your base rug is the foundation of your layered look. Choose a larger rug in a neutral color or simple pattern to ground the space. Natural fiber rugs like jute or sisal are great options because they add texture without overpowering the room.
Add a Statement Rug: Once you have your base rug, choose a smaller rug to layer on top. This rug can be bolder in color, pattern, or texture. It’s your opportunity to introduce a pop of color, a unique pattern, or a luxurious texture like a shag or faux fur.
Mix Patterns and Textures: Don’t be afraid to mix different patterns and textures, but do so thoughtfully. A solid base rug paired with a patterned top rug works well, as does mixing a subtle pattern with a bold one. Consider scale and balance—if one rug has a large-scale pattern, choose a smaller-scale pattern for the other. Mixing textures, such as a flat-weave with a plush rug, adds depth.
Consider Color Harmony: To create a cohesive look, choose rugs with colors that complement each other and the rest of your room’s decor. Look for shared colors or tones that tie the rugs together. This doesn’t mean they have to match perfectly, but there should be a visual connection.
Layering Techniques
There are various ways to layer rugs, depending on your room layout and design preferences. Here are some popular layering techniques:
Offset Layers: Instead of placing the top rug directly in the center of the base rug, offset it to one side. This creates a more dynamic and less formal look. It works particularly well in casual or eclectic spaces.
Partial Layering: Layer a smaller rug over a larger one, allowing parts of both rugs to show. This technique is ideal for defining a specific area, such as under a coffee table or in front of a fireplace.
Overlap Multiple Rugs: In larger spaces, you can overlap several rugs to create a layered, patchwork effect. Use rugs of different sizes, shapes, and patterns, and let them overlap slightly to create an interesting and unique arrangement.
Diagonal Layering: Place the top rug at an angle over the base rug for a bold and unexpected look. This approach works well in modern or contemporary spaces and adds a sense of movement.
Layering Rugs in Different Rooms
Layering rugs can work in almost any room of your home. Here’s how to apply this technique in various spaces:
Living Room: The living room is a perfect space to experiment with rug layering. Place 5×8 area rugs under the main furniture arrangement and layer a smaller, patterned rug over it to highlight the coffee table or seating area. This setup creates a cozy and defined space for conversation and relaxation.
Bedroom: In the bedroom, layer rugs to add warmth and comfort underfoot. Start with a large rug that fits under the bed, extending out on both sides. Then, layer a smaller, plush rug at an angle or at the foot of the bed for added texture and style.
Dining Room: Layering rugs in the dining room can help define the dining area, especially in open-concept spaces. Use a large rug that accommodates the dining table and chairs, then layer a smaller rug on top to create a focal point or to introduce color and pattern.
Hallways and Entryways: For narrow spaces like hallways, layering can add interest and break up the linear feel. Place a runner rug over a larger base rug or layer multiple runners in different patterns or colors to create a visually engaging pathway. In entryways, a layered rug setup can welcome guests and set the tone for the rest of your home’s decor.
Layering rugs is an art that combines creativity, style, and functionality. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement, define a space, or simply add a touch of comfort, mastering the art of layering rugs will help you create a space that is uniquely yours.
