Apartment Decorating: Finding the Right Area Rug

An area rug is a central part of your apartment living room, and choosing the right one requires effort, time and planning. There are several considerations when making your selection, each of which is equally important. Of course, the foremost consideration is affordability. As apartments are typically only temporary abodes, don’t spend more than you can afford as the rug may not fit in your next home.

Determine the Right Shape for the Space

Examine the space intended for the area rug to determine which shape will fit best. Whether square, round or rectangular, there is one shape right for the room. A round shape is best for underneath a round table, but also will look great in a room filled with square, heavy furniture. A round shape will draw focus and add contrast to the predominant shape in the room. A square shape may be all you need to fit under furniture because less of it will be covered. A rectangular rug may elongate the appearance of the room.

Measure

Measure the length and width intended for the area rug. Do not measure the entire wall to wall area as the rug is not intended to act as wall to wall carpeting and some of the original flooring should show around the edges of the rug. The space you measure should include ample size for the entire rug, including any fringe.

It is also important to measure for the depth of the rug’s threads, known as the rug’s “pile.” A deeper or shorter pile rug may be needed based on the furniture you intend to put atop it and what you intend it to cover. If the floor’s surface is particularly cold or hard, such as tile or concrete, a deeper pile will soften its feel and add warmth. A shorter pile will prevent furniture from sinking too much and will not have as distinctive a rise from your other flooring. Also factor the depth of any pad to be placed underneath the rug into your measurements.

Placement and Durability

Consider where you intend to put the rug and what use it will receive. Spaces near a front door or in a well used living room will receive more wear and tear. Factor this into the rug’s fabric, manufacturing and cost. Synthetic fabrics may hold up for longer and be easier to clean.

Pattern or Color

Of course, an area rug is a piece of furniture and should show off your tastes. If the furniture in your room is solid colored a patterned rug will add a focal point and color. If your room is already colorful, a solid, neutral colored rug may provide the warmth you seek without overwhelming the room. Compare available rug colors to your walls, wood stain and color of other furniture. Oftentimes the manufacturer or retailer will be able to provide a small sample square for your comparison.

Choosing the right area rug for your apartment requires many considerations. Compare the prices of several different manufacturers and retailers, and do not hesitate to ask for discounts, a request many retailers and manufacturers will readily fulfill.