Don’t we all get the urge, occasionally, to spruce up our homes and make them more reflective of our unique personalities? For sure we do, and it never hurts to have an Instagram-worthy abode. But have you ever considered the one thing missing on the blank wall above your couch might be right under your feet? That’s right, we’re talking about rugs as decor!
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Before you start picturing your grandmother’s faded old rug donning your wall, hear us out. Rugs or tapestries are available in hundreds of designs, shapes, and colors and are becoming increasingly recognized as works of art that can elevate the design of any room. The best part? They serve a practical purpose too! Talk about the intersection of design and functionality.
In this article, we'll dive into the fascinating world of rugs and explore how they have evolved into functional pieces of art that can transform any living space.
In recent years, rugs have become trending decor pieces in interior design. They can be used as wall hangings or statement pieces in your living room - a cultural representation of your background, a pop of color, or just as a way to tie in and blend all other design elements in your home.
Pictures of homes with rugs hung up as wall art or strategically placed to make a statement are always pretty. They can add a soulful touch of elegance and style to the space. Take American model and former actress Emily Ratajkowski, whose rug-splattered living room was the object of adoration in a piece by Vogue, UK. Even former royals are keen to keep up with this trend. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have a stunning rug in the dining space of their new digs in Montecito, California. The versatility and sheer beauty that rugs can bring to any room are why they never go out of fashion.
Rugs have been used as an interior design element for decades, often used as an artistic bridge to unite the different elements of a room. They have serious potential to transform a space from drab to fab and can add a touch of class and comfort to any space. The most interesting part of using rugs as art is the intersection of design and functionality they provide.
In addition to the unique patterns and color a rug can come in, they provide a certain tactile quality and textural contrast that you will be hard-pressed to find in other decorative pieces. The endless variety of rug fabrics, colors, shapes, patterns, and sizes make them a suitable option for all kinds of living spaces.
Another aspect of using rugs as decor is the design heritage they bring in the form of traditional patterns native to different cultures. Getting a rug that was created in your homeland or one that is representative of elements of your history can add a unique touch to your home. That way, your interiors can truly reflect your roots.
Rugs are also super functional art pieces. They are built to withstand intense foot traffic, which is why they are durable and make a long-lasting investment for your home. Rugs are typically made with natural materials like wool, silk, jute, and cotton, among others, which make them soft to the touch and resistant to stains and spills. So, if you have young children around the house, they would make for a practical piece of investment.
Rugs are also known for their sound-absorbing properties, which help reduce echo in whatever room you use them in.
Overall, rugs are an amazing way to enhance the aesthetics of a space while retaining its functional benefits. Whether you want to add some color, define a space, or create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, all you need is that perfect rug.
Like all great art, choosing the right rug can be tricky. What sets one rug apart from another is often the balance of design and functionality they bring to a room. With that in mind, here are some tips that to help you select the right rugs for your home:
The style of your room and the other decor pieces and furniture will help you determine what kind of rug will best complement them. For instance, if you’re looking for something that goes with abstract styles, choose a large-patterned, bold-colored rug as the centerpiece for your theme. If you’re going for a cozy or aesthetic vibe, on the other hand, you can choose more intricate patterns and muted colors to tie in your vision for that space. A well-designed rug should be visually appealing, with patterns and colors that complement the room's overall design. However, these patterns and colors must also be practical enough to repel dirt and stains and withstand everyday wear and tear.
Find a rug that complements the colors in your space without overwhelming them. If your existing art pieces are bright and bold, for instance, you can choose a neutral-toned rug to strike a balance. Traditional Persian rugs feature intricate patterns and designs that are both beautiful and practical and can fit a wide variety of themes and colors. Meanwhile, the geometric patterns of Moroccan-style rugs are highly prized for their striking visual impact and durability. Modern rug designs, on their part, often incorporate bold colors and abstract patterns that are both functional and visually striking.
Getting the right size rug for a particular space can be challenging. You can do too little or too much when it comes to sizing your rugs. It takes a certain eye for detail and a sense of aesthetics to get it just right. The idea is that the rug you choose should be large enough to match the space it goes in but not so large that it looks out of place.
Texture is as important to a rug as its size, pattern, and overall appeal. Choose the texture depending on your existing art and furniture. For example, if you already have multiple textural elements in your room, you might want to pick a rug with a more subdued texture to avoid visual clutter.
Your choice of rug depends on whether you would like to have it rug under the coffee table or hang it on the wall above the fireplace. Make sure its weave can stand up to the rigors of everyday life. The thumb rule is to select a texture that is easy to clean for a ground rug. Natural materials like wool, silk, and cotton are popular choices for this because they are soft yet resilient. On the other hand, rugs made of synthetic materials like nylon and polyester are lightweight and can be easily hung up on walls.
Considering all of these five factors will help you select a rug that enhances your space and creates a harmonious look and feel.
Rugs are beautiful decorative pieces with functionality that can add personality and comfort to any space. The history of rug-making as an art form is rich and diverse, with deep cultural and traditional significance that goes back centuries. Designing rugs as art involves a unique creative process that draws inspiration from various sources, including traditional motifs, the natural world, and contemporary design sensibilities.
The intersection of design and functionality is crucial in rug-making, with the choice of materials, patterns, and colors all playing a role in creating an object that is both visually appealing and functionally worthwhile. You must consider both these values - aesthetics and practicality - in choosing a rug so that it can be a source of joy for years to come.
Lawrence of La Brea is a great place to start your search if you want a rug that seamlessly combines artistry and function. We have a unique collection of high-end rugs that are both beautiful and practical. Whether you're looking for a traditional Persian rug or a contemporary design, Lawrence of La Brea has something for everyone.
Start wishlisting your favorite rugs from our collection today!
View our luxury rug collections, hand-picked from around the world.
David Nourafshan
David Nourafshan
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