How to Choose the Right Rug for Your Apartment

There's one piece of apartment decor that often becomes an afterthought, and that's what is underfoot. But a rug can tie a room together or undo it, so this really should be a top priority. Here are three things to consider when you pick a rug for your place.

  1. Aesthetics. Color, texture, and size are probably the most important aspects to take into account when purchasing a new rug. You want something that complements your current color scheme, contrasts the other textures in your furniture, and slides comfortably underneath at least the front feet of your sofa and the comfy chair.
  2. Functionality. Second in line is how functional your rug is. This depends on the room you'll be placing it in and how much wear and tear you can expect. For instance, a rug in the kitchen is probably going to see some spills, so you should be able to toss it in the washing machine. A rug in the living room, on the other hand, may need to be plush and comfortable, but won't necessarily require machine washing on a regular basis.
  3. Padding. It may not be the most glamorous part of adding an area rug, but determining what type of pad to place under it is essential. A pad keeps your rug firmly in place and can increase its plushness, too, all while protecting your floors. There are all different kinds of pads out there, some are even eco-friendly, so take the time to explore your options.

4 Steps To Great Style [West Elm]
The Complete Rug Buying Guide [Overstock]
Color + Texture + Size: How To Choose the Right Rug, Everytime [Apartment Therapy]