Here at Abitare UK, we believe rugs can instantly add design, texture and comfort to any space, but with so many options to choose from, there’s a lot to consider when shopping for the perfect rug or mat. When it comes to choosing the right rug for your furniture it can also be a big task.
So let us break it down for you…
Accent Rugs
When deciding on a rug for a space firstly you need to identify the purpose of the rug. Accent rugs are the perfect accompaniment for a single piece of furniture. The rug should be approximately 10-15% smaller than the furniture it’s meant to accent.
Expansive Rugs
Expansive rugs make a room feel more carpeted, by covering a large floor space.
When opting for an expansive rug, allow a significant border around each piece of furniture to avoid a cramped feel. This includes the space required to pull dining chairs out around the dining table.
Cut Pile
Once you’ve identified the purpose of your rug, you’ll need to consider the different weaves and textures available. A cut pile rug is soft in texture and created by looped fibres which run through a backing material, usually done by machine. Hand-knotted pile rugs are also available, these rugs are generally of a higher quality and therefore more expensive.
Cohesion Rugs 
Cohesion rugs will bring together furniture in the same section of the room and as the name suggests – create cohesion. The rug will need to be large enough to reach or sit under the front legs of any items of furniture within that section, in order to tie everything together.
Braided
Braided rugs are made by twisting together wool with strips of recycled fabric to create a rope, which is then sewn into a spiral pattern. Due to the spiral formation, braided rugs are often round or oval in shape.
Loop Pile
Loop pile rugs are made up of uncut loops of yarn, making them the ideal option for high footfall areas, as the weave easily bounces back into shape. A thick-set loop pile rug is a stylish, yet practical option which will really stand the test of time. Note, loop piles are not recommended for households with animals as claws can get caught in the loops and snap the pile.
Natural Materials
Rugs are available in numerous materials, and there are pros and cons for all. When choosing a rug, consider which material is best suited to the room you’re shopping for.
Statement Rugs 
A statement rug will form a centrepiece in a room and therefore should be left clear of furniture. Bold patterns and colourful designs are eye-catching, but shapes are also important. Where space allows, large round rugs can make a big statement, especially in living rooms.
Flat Weave
Flatweave rugs – often referred to as kilims – are tapestry weaves that have been found to date back to the fourth century. Flatweaves are made by interweaving warp and weft strands, creating an identical design on both sides and so is a great idea whne choosing the Right Rug. These rugs are lightweight and often reversable. The ultra-thin profile makes flatweaves popular for kitchens and conservatories.
- Wool: Wool rugs are hardwearing and durable, insulate heat and have a premium feel, making them ideal for hallways, living rooms and dining rooms. Poor in rooms prone to damp and humidity, wool rugs should be avoided in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Silk: Silk rugs are extremely soft and have tear-resistant, luxury fibres to add sheen. Silk is generally more expensive than alternative materials and can be difficult to clean, but if it’s luxury you’re after, silk rugs are a great addition to living rooms and bedrooms.
- Leather: Leather rugs are soft and durable, very easy to clean and often stain-resistant, although cannot be used in humid or damp environments. If you’re looking for a unique piece, a leather rug could make a real statement in a living room or home office space.
- Sheepskin: Naturally, sheepskin rugs are incredibly fluffy, warm and soft underfoot, making them perfect for bedrooms and some living rooms. Being 100 per cent natural, professional dry cleaning is recommended.
- Cotton: Cotton rugs are strong, stable and have soft fibres, meaning they will work well in almost any room of the house, including kitchens and dining rooms. Cotton rugs do have a tendency to become felted over time and can attract dirt easily – but don’t let this put you off as they are generally easy to wash.
Synthetic Materials
- Chenille: Chenille rugs are available in natural cotton, as well as synthetic materials. Chenille is a thick, heavy material with a luxurious pile, perfect for living rooms – although should be avoided in high traffic areas.
- Synthetics: Synthetics rugs good, durable all-rounders; they’re inexpensive, easy to clean and are generally fade and stain-resistant. As a whole, synthetic rugs don’t have the same quality and feel and natural materials, but they are suitable for every room of the house.
- Polypropylene: Polypropylene is the most stain-resistant option, as well as being fade-resistant and extremely durable, making the material a popular choice for rugs in dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms and hallways. Although a great all-rounder, polypropylene fibres do tend to get matted and crushed over time.
- Viscose: Viscose rugs have many similarities to silk rugs but at a fraction of the price. Soft to touch with a silk-like feel and sophisticated sheen, viscose rugs work well in living rooms and bedrooms but should be avoided in any high traffic areas and rooms susceptible to water and moisture.
Eco Friendly, Plant-Based Materials
- Sisal: Sisal rugs and mats are a practical choice for anywhere in the home, making them a popular choice for kitchens, hallways and conservatories. Sisal is grown in plant form in South America and Africa and is anti-static with a slightly coarse texture. Although easy to maintain, sisal can be difficult to clean.
- Jute: Jute rugs are made from jute plants, grown in Asia and are a popular pick for kitchens, utility areas and conservatories. Although softer to touch than sisal, jute is slightly less durable and therefore not a great option for high footfall areas of the house and there’s nothing wrong with being Eco friendly when choosing the Right Rug
To see more of the beautiful rugs that we can get for you please visit www.asiatic.co.uk
