Decorating with area rugs is an excellent way to add warmth, texture, and colour to any room of your home. But when placed on top of carpet, area rugs can define spaces, add an extra layer of décor, and even cover imperfections on your existing carpet. However, putting a rug over a carpet comes with its unique set of challenges. Below, we discuss some insightful tips for successfully placing area rugs on top of carpets.
When selecting an area rug to place on top of your carpet, the first step is to consider the texture, colour, and pattern of both your carpet and the rug. A simple rule of thumb is to opt for area rugs with a contrasting texture to your carpet. For instance, a sleek, low-pile area rug can look great over a fluffy, high-pile carpet. This contrast prevents the rug from appearing as though it’s simply an extension of the carpet.
Regarding colour and pattern, you have more flexibility. You could go for a rug that complements the existing pallette in your room or choose one that stands out to make a bold statement. However, it’s important to be mindful of not overwhelming the space with too many contrasting elements.
The size of the area rug can drastically affect the look and feel of your room. A common mistake is choosing a rug that’s too small, which can make the room feel disconnected and cluttered. We recommend that your area rug be large enough to fit under key furniture pieces, such as the coffee table and the front legs of sofas and chairs in a living room setup. This helps anchor the room and create a cohesive look.
One of the primary concerns when placing area rugs over carpet is ensuring they stay put. Rugs that slide or bunch up can be tripping hazards and detract from the overall look. To minimise movement, use a high-quality rug pad designed for use over carpets. These pads help grip the carpet and rug together, reducing slip and adding a layer of cushioning. Additionally, consider the weight of the furniture on top of the rug, which can help keep it in place.
Layering area rugs over carpet is more than just placing one over the other; it’s about creating a harmonious blend of textures, colours, and styles that enhance the space. When layering, pay attention to the balance and scale of the patterns and colours you’re combining. A large, bold pattern on your area rug can beautifully complement a more subdued carpet. Layering is also an opportunity to experiment with shapes. For instance, a round area rug can soften a rectangular space and add an element of interest.
Using area rugs to create zones in your space is particularly effective in open-plan homes. An area rug can delineate spaces, such as a sitting area or dining area, within a larger room. This zoning can help give structure to an open space and make it feel more intimate and purposeful.
Maintaining an area rug over your carpet requires extra attention, as the double layer can trap more dust, allergens, and dirt. Regular vacuuming of both the rug and the underlying carpet is essential. Be sure to occasionally lift the rug and vacuum the carpet underneath. Additionally, attend to spills and stains immediately to prevent them from soaking through the rug into the carpet, which can be harder to clean.
One of the joys of using area rugs is the flexibility to change the look and feel of your room with minimal effort. Don’t be afraid to swap out rugs according to the season to refresh your decor or to accommodate different uses of the space. This can be a cost-effective way to keep your home feeling fresh and inviting.
People choose to put rugs on carpets for various reasons, including adding a layer of style and personality to a room, defining specific areas within a larger space, and protecting the underlying carpet from wear and tear in high-traffic areas. Additionally, rugs can offer extra comfort and warmth, making a cosy space even cosier.
To get a rug to lay flat on a carpet, start by positioning the rug where you want it and then smooth out any folds or creases by hand. If the rug still refuses to lay flat, consider placing heavy objects like books on the corners and along the edges for a day or two.
Additionally, using a non-slip rug pad specifically designed for use over carpets can help keep the rug flat and prevent it from bunching up. If wrinkles persist, gently steam the rug while it’s in place on the carpet to help it relax and lay flat.
Absolutely, using a rug pad under a rug, even when it’s placed on carpet, is beneficial. A rug pad provides additional cushioning, reduces wrinkles and slippage, and extends the life of the rug by preventing the fibres from being crushed. It also helps protect the underlying carpet from wear and tear. So, while it might seem unnecessary, a rug pad is definitely recommended for enhancing both comfort and durability.
When choosing an area rug to place on a carpet, look for one with a low pile and a non-slip backing to prevent movement and bunching. The texture and colour should complement the existing carpet, enhancing the room’s decor. Lighter, thinner rugs are usually better choices as they are less likely to cause indentations in the underlying carpet. For a wide selection of options that fit these criteria, you should explore Matt Britton, where there’s an extensive range of choices to suit various tastes and room settings.
Thanks to Matt Britton, discovering your perfect carpet and rug pairing has never been easier. With an unmatched selection of luxury carpets and rugs, you’re bound to find pieces that not only elevate your space but also reflect your unique style.
So book your appointment or order your free samples and experience the difference that quality and care can make in your home décor journey!
