Area rugs often serve as the focal point of the room, bringing rich color and warmth to any space. You can trust this decorative piece to pull the room together and brighten it—but it’s important not to make common mistakes that can take away from their efficacy. Here’s what you should know before you head to the furniture store.

5 Rug Mistakes to Never Make

1. Playing It Safe

It’s understandable that you want to make the best choice—but it’s also possible to play it too safe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a contrasting color or a vivid print if the rest of the room is fairly subdued. If you’re not comfortable veering too far in a new direction, consider a different shade in the same color family.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size

In a small space, stick with a small to average size floor covering that won’t overwhelm the room. Large silhouettes look great in more dramatic rooms. No matter the size, however, it’s also important to take shape into account. Oval carpeting fits well in smaller rooms, while a large room works with a rectangular rug. 

3. Selecting the Rug Last

Consider this distinctive floor covering the focal point of the room. It serves as a cohesive piece that ties everything together. Use it as your guide when you shop for accessories, such as vases, throw pillows, and lamps. All of them should coordinate with the design you choose for the area rug.

4. Forgetting the Protective Pad

Rug pads serve a dual purpose: they protect the integrity of the carpeting and prevent damage to your floor. Spills can seep through the fabric and cause immediate damage to hardwood. A pad will absorb that liquid before it has a chance to affect the floors. It will also help minimize slippage.

5. Neglecting Your Floor Plan

The best way to design a room layout is to determine the furniture you plan to use and how it will be placed. Beds should cover at least a portion of a rug, as should tables. An entire living room set can “float” on the carpeting in a large room, or you can place just the front legs of the furniture on the rug.

At the family-owned Bayles Leather House of Victor, NY, high-quality furnishings are a way of life. Customers seeking beautiful area rugs for any room in the house will find an excellent selection here, along with complementary accessories. They also carry sofas, dining room sets, and living room collections. Visit their website for more information, or call them at (585) 742-1360.