Turning any space into a cozy and stylish retreat is possible by layering rugs in the right way!
There is nothing like placing your bare feet on a soft and high-pile carpet and feeling it cushion your every step. All of a sudden, a room is more warm and welcoming just by adding an area rug. And why should you stick to only having one surface underfoot? Like layering jewelry for your outfit, layering a rug creates dimension to your living space. Whether you’re looking to define a space, make a room extra cozy, or make a statement, layering area rugs for a finished look will make your room into a retreat.
Why Layer Rugs?
Strategically placing multiple-area rugs can add color, dimension, and comfortable elements to your space. It covers flooring that has seen a lot of foot traffic or even extends the life of a favorite rug or a piece. Mixing textures and sizes will give you a look that is both casually chic and effortlessly unique.
Choosing the Right Base Rug
The best base rugs are solid, natural, and large-scale. Jute, sisal, and wool rugs are all great options as an understated backdrop for the layers in your space. Select a neutral color to keep the feel light and bright, or opt for a deeper shade to ground a space. The idea is for the base rug to establish the other layers to come, so choose wisely.
Playing with Patterns and Colors
Layered rugs are natural partners in contrast, so an intricate, colorful, or eye-catching rug is your perfect match. Consider Persian rugs, kilims, or Moroccan-style rugs for a layered second rug. Bold or subtle patterns contrast most notably against solid rugs, so choosing a standout second rug will add the most visual depth to your space. The goal? A space that looks as if it’s been well-curated, not merely bought full-sale.
Sizing Matters
When pulling a space together with layered rugs, let proportion be your guide. The rug on top should be smaller than the base, and you should see a border around the base rug peeking out underneath. To measure, a good rule of thumb is to leave around 12-18 inches of the base rug showing. That number can flex a bit depending on the size of your room but try and keep the sizing consistent for a look that’s cohesive and intentional. Want to know the secret to making your space look cozy and lived-in? Let the top rug sit slightly off-center for a casual, laid-back feel.
Perfecting Placement
Layering rugs in a living room can create a sense of space. Use a larger rug as the base, layering a smaller rug over the top for the primary sitting area and coffee table. In a bedroom, adding an accent rug at the end of the bed creates a cozy and warm detail. For a dining room where you need lower-profile, easy-to-clean rugs make sure to layer a flatweave or low-pile rug on top of your larger base rug.
Seasonal Swaps
One of the best things about layered area rugs is that they’re easy to freshen up for the season. Swap a top rug to correspond with the forecast—choose light cotton or jute in the summer and lush wool or faux fur for the winter. It’s an effortless way to change up your space and keep it feeling ambient through any time of year.
Creating a Cohesive Look
When learning how to layer area rugs, remember that there’s an art to the balance but it doesn’t have to be more difficult than that. Keep a pair of area rugs looking harmonious by using the same color story or design style. Opt for plenty of earthy tones, muted pastels, or shades that are linearly complementary. The key is to pull your carpeting together, not set them against one another.
Elevate Your Space with Thoughtful Layering
Area rugs do wonders for a room, imparting your space with depth and personality. Brands like Serena & Lily are home to a roundup of really good area rugs that work for layered looks that appear simple and unsophisticated. With a little imagination and a lot of maneuvering, finding the perfect pair of area rugs should set your space up as the welcoming, toasty haven you’ve always wanted it to be.
