How to Use a Statement Rug
To celebrate my new rug collection with Harlequin going live this month, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to share with you why statement rugs are an integral part of my designs. Not just any rug, but the fabulous, transformative, statement rug is a must-have element to any maximalist room scheme. Let’s make sure you’re using them to their full potential, shall we?
Transform your space with style and personality
Think of a Rug as less of a mere floor covering, and more like art for your floor. They can add a splash of personality and completely switch up the mood and feel of a room. Whether you’re going for a bold stripe, geometric pattern, lush floral design, or an outrageous animal print, a rug is the ultimate way to make a significant style statement. I’m obsessed with stripes because they go with so many other patterns, but I’m super in love with the basket weave design as the large scale makes it visually impactful.
Transform your space with this vibrant basketweave design in Coral Rose, available at The Rug Seller
Size Matters (and Bigger is Always Better!)
When it comes to statement rugs, size is everything. Think big! In fact, the larger, the better. You want the rug to embrace the room, not float awkwardly in the middle like an afterthought. Ideally, the front feet of your furniture (say your sofa or armchairs) should rest comfortably on the rug. This trick anchors the space and creates a cohesive, cosy zone that pulls the scheme together. So now you know, no more lonely rug islands, please!
My dog Lucy absolutely loving the new collection! Wilderness Abstract Rug Peridot: Sophie Robinson X Harlequin available at The Rug Seller
The Perfect Palette
Colour and pattern are your best friends when picking out a statement rug. You can either start with the rug as your muse and build the rest of the room around its gorgeous hues and motifs, or let it be the piece that ties your whole scheme together. Either way, the rug should sing in harmony with your existing palette. Got lots of blues and greys? Maybe an ochre or terracotta rug to add warmth? Or vice versa…let’s not be shy about a splash of a contrasting bright colour to liven things up. I love how the Wonderland floral rug in this delicious burnt orange colour really adds warmth to the TV snug.
This gorgeous burnt orange colour really adds warmth to my TV snug. Wonderland Floral rug and sofa fabric. Both: Harlequin X Sophie Robinson. Rug available at The Rug Seller.
Patterns with Purpose
Patterned rugs aren’t just pretty; they’re practical too! They hide the inevitable crumbs, pet hair, and little spills that life throws at us. Geometric designs bring a modern edge, florals add a softer touch, while traditional motifs can bring a sense of heritage and nostalgia. Whatever your vibe, there’s a pattern to suit you and your home’s personality. My new rug collection takes some of the hero patterns from the fabric collection, making it easy to add them to your maximalist interior. I love the basket weave check next to pretty floral fabrics or a geometric, or the Wilderness abstract design adding a modern twist to the archive woodland floral wallpaper.
Bold and beautiful – I love how the Basketweave check Rug goes with my “Meander” fabric in Emerald. Rug available at The Rug Seller.
The Rug as a Focal Point
Let’s not forget that a statement rug can be just that—a statement! Like a stunning piece of art, your rug can draw the eye and ground the entire room. Pair it with simple, understated decor, and let that rug do the talking. It’s a fantastic way to add drama and flair to a more pared-back interior without overwhelming the space. Alternatively, my maximalist friends will know that a strongly patterned rug will only add more fabulousness to your already fabulous scheme.
More is more! This Rug packs a punch in my green maximalist Master Bedroom. Basketweave in Emerald, at The Rug Seller Wallpaper: Woodland Floral in Lapis/Emerald/Carnelian.
Bonus Tips for Rugs
- Layering Fun: Feeling adventurous? Layer a smaller statement rug over a larger neutral one for an added texture twist.
- Define Different Zones: In open-plan spaces, rugs are fantastic for defining separate areas, like a living zone versus a dining area.
- Maintenance Love: Treat your rug well! Vacuum regularly and rotate it to even out wear. A well-loved rug can last for years and only get more beautiful with age.
The winning combination of stripes with florals, oh how I love the drama and juxtaposition it brings to a room design! Paper Straw Striped Wool Rug – Peridot: Sophie Robinson X Harlequin available at The Rug Seller
Sherbet Stripe Wool Rug – Emerald Amber by Sophie Robinson X Harlequin. Available at The Rug Seller.
So, there you have it. A statement rug isn’t just a design choice; it’s a lifestyle upgrade! It’s about making your home unapologetically YOU. Now, I’m curious…what kind of statement are you ready to make with your rug? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to know!
If you’d like to learn more about designing a maximalist interior check out my online course! Through an exclusive tour of my home, I’ll show you how I crafted each room into a vibrant, layered masterpiece with special finds from window dressings, and how to hack your PVC windows to Rugs and vintage finds. This self-paced course is designed to fit your schedule, empowering you to unleash your creativity while providing a clear framework to achieve stunning, personalised results in your own home.
