Decorating & Rugs

Select an area rug in the size and color scheme you want. Area rugs come in a broad range of colors, shapes and sizes. If the area rug you choose has a pattern, make sure one of the colors in it matches the walls in the room. If you purchase a solid-colored area rug, choose a color pulled from patterned furniture or wallpaper in the room.

Draw one color from a patterned area rug for wall color if you plan to paint the room. This will give the room harmony. Use the same color or different colors in the rug as you select furniture and accessories.

Decide where you want to put your area rug. Put it in a spot where all can enjoy the rug's features if it has a prominent design. For example, put an oriental rug with a beautiful pattern in the middle of your living room or den.

Define areas of a room by using more than one rug. For instance, create a cozy reading area in your living room by placing an area rug in a corner, along with a comfortable chair and pillows in colors pulled from the rug, an end table and a reading lamp. Put a larger area rug in the main conversation area of the living room. In a child's room, place an area rug in an art nook and another area rug in the center of the room, where your child and his friends can sit and play.

Use area rugs as accents, as well. Use one to define your entry and another to anchor the table in your dining room.