RUG HINTS : Rugsonline - For Designer Rugs, Carpets, Hall Runners

> Selecting a rug size

Choosing the right size is one of the most important decisions to make when purchasing a rug. The wrong size can make a room look cluttered or far too small. Rugs come in standard sizes that suit most of today’s interiors. Small rugs usually range from 120x180cm up to 170x240cm. Medium rugs: 200x300 cm up to 250x350 cm. Large rugs: up to approximately 300x400cm with anything larger than this classified as extra large.

If your room requires an odd size rug, it will need to be custom made. It is not necessarily more expensive, you may need to enquire about the design you are interested in and see if custom-made options are available.

When selecting a rug try and allow at least one metre of space between the edge of the rug and the wall. This space allows any inward-opening doors to open and close easily. Keep in mind that small rugs are great to highlight small pieces of furniture whilst larger rugs are better for bigger spaces like dining rooms or lounge areas for example.

If you are hesitating between two sizes, it is often better to go for the bigger size as the rug can always go under the furniture.If your are looking for a rug for your dining room, you need to

choose one large enough so guests can sit around the table keeping the four legs of the chairs on the rug. This means that the rug needs to be about 65cm wider than each side of the table. For example: If the table dimensions are 95x240 cm, you will need a rug that is 225x370cm. This extra size allows the chairs to be pulled out without moving off the rug.

For the shape: opt for a round or rectangular depending on the room, table, coffee table or couch. A round rug will be more suitable and elegant underneath a round table. If you ever choose a square rug for a round table, be sure that each person, once sitting, is still on the rug.

For your living room, you need to make sure that your rug is sufficiently wider than your coffee table. A rug can define the lounge room space and be the link between two sofas. If choosing a rug going underneath a coffee table, make sure that it is big enough so you can walk around the table while still being on the rug.

Remember, a rug too small will make the room look smaller. Also, a border visually reduces the size of a rug. If opting for a rug with a nice pattern, keep in mind that the furniture will hide a part of it.

> Selecting A Colour

In terms of colours, it is essential to choose a colour that you really like and won’t get sick of quickly. There are no right or wrong colours; it only comes down to your tastes and preferences. However, it is good advised to match up a particular colour in the room, for example the colour of your walls, curtains, cushions or even artworks.

Always keep the colour matching subtle and not over the top in a way to harmonize everything in your room. If your space is already full of colours, you don’t necessarily need to try and match your rug to its environment, it is best to choose a neutral colour.

The other way around applies for a very neutral room, a bright coloured rug will look great. In matching a wall or furniture colour, your rug will only help setting off your interior and make your design come together.

Keep in mind that you will always get a colour variation depending on the material you’ll choose, as different yarns absorb light differently. Natural fibers like wool tend to absorb light more than synthetic fibers showing colours less brightly. Also, light will vary depending on which side of the yarn it is reflected off. The cut edge of yarn side will always show colours darker than the other side.

> Colours Qualities

Here are few tips about colours:

Blue is an exciting colour that is extremely versatile. Depending on whether you want a cheerful look – think cobalt and electric blue – or a more sedate feel – with dusty, muted shades – it’s easy to work it into your decorating. Blue goes really well with green, grey, cream, yellow and easily creates a nautical or seaside look.

Red is an ideal accent colour and is well suited to Chinese and tribal themes. And conversely, it’s the ultimate for creating luxurious and burlesque look. Red goes well with charcoal, black, gold, orange.

Black has a dramatic force than no other shade can match. Its smacks of power, style and exquisite taste. According to the expert, every room should have a splash of black. Black is a perfect match with all colours and hues.

Yellow is the attention-seeker of the spectrum and a small splash makes a big statement. It has a high reflection which means it is the ideal colour for brightening up cool, dark spaces. Yellow goes well with orange, grey, green.

Green is a soothing hue that brings a sense of nature into homes. From soft limes to vibrant turquoise, this is one colour that really can fit in with any scheme or style. Green goes well with blue, white, yellow, cream to create a Nordic or eco look.

Purple is the colour of enlightenment. In darker tones, purple gives a room a sense of luxury and opulence while pale shades have a soft romantic feel a produce a mood of serenity. Purple goes well with pink, grey, red, yellow.

Pink is the colour of nurture and feminity. Pale pink is a lovely mood enhancer colour and a great way to create warm, dreamy atmosphere. Hot pink, on the other hand, is a great accent colour and an excellent way to give living areas energy and pop. Pink works well with white, grey, khaki.

Grey is incredibly versatile. If you can’t decide which base colour to use, go for grey. It’s passive, which means it reflects all shades and dominates none, making it the ideal backdrop for any scheme. Grey goes well with any colour.