Delos Blog

Styling, Size & Shape Guide

Written by Kimberly Lyons | Jul 7, 2022 3:13:50 AM

Styling, Size & Shape Guide:

To provide the correct answers we must first ask the correct questions. 

What is the purpose of the rug?  

Will it be a focal point, like a piece of art in a more modern setting, or will it be used to pull eclectic décor together? With the first, using a smaller rug in a unique shape that utilizes bright colors might be the best option, whereas the latter may require a larger, more textural rug to make the space appear more spacious and less cluttered.

Is it safe?

Area rug selection is about more than styling alone.  Wool area rugs are hypoallergenic. They help to control moisture and noise for a healthier living environment.  It is inherently flame retardant, thereby alleviating any fear of dripping or off-gassing.  Wool renders several harmful VOCs from the air such as formaldehyde. It is sustainable, recyclable, and safe to reuse. 

ECONYL® nylon, made from 100% recycled waste, has beautiful, saturated color that stands up to commercial wear.  

Both fibers are talented, whether separate or together. When combined they create stunning textural pattern with visual appeal and backbone.

What size should you choose?

For a dining room the rug should be in proportion to your table so that guests can pull out their chairs to sit down without the legs coming off the edge.  The ideal size is generally at least 1.50m (59”) larger than the table in each direction.  

Larger rugs can make a room appear more spacious while smaller rugs, within open floorplans, can create cozier and more intimate spaces.  Grab your measuring tape and four magazines to use as corners to block off how different sizes might look to gauge your optimal size. Don’t forget to take traffic patterns into account.  Remember that your walls help to define the appropriate size and shape of a carpet as much as furniture arrangements.  

You may want to allow the same width of flooring to show around your carpet or even run the edge of your rug along a floor joint.  A cornered fireplace may dictate a dog ear to maximize look and comfort.  Custom rugs put you in charge, because one size does not fit all and the true signature of a designer are carpets that are appropriately sized and shaped.