A well-chosen rug is more than a pretty patch of textile—it defines a room, sets the tone, and brings everything together like the final note in a symphony. Whether you’re anchoring a lounge, grounding a dining room, or cozying up a bedroom, the right rug makes all the difference. And if you’re really thinking outside the box? Maybe it’s not even a rug at all (more on that below). Here’s how the pros approach rug selection.
Mood, Movement, and a Measured Fit
When it comes to selecting a rug, Metro Design Build starts with function, then lets style lead the way. In a rich, dark-paneled lounge, a soft, neutral-toned rug adds comfort without distracting from a statement green velvet sofa and antler chandelier. In contrast, the dining room calls for practicality—low-pile rugs that can handle the occasional spill while still elevating the space with bold, black-and-white geometry.
But it’s not just about the look—size matters. Too-small rugs are a common mistake, so follow their golden rules: living room rugs should fit at least under the front legs of all major furniture pieces, dining rugs should extend 24″ beyond the table to accommodate pulled-out chairs, and bedroom rugs should give you a cozy landing zone on all sides of the bed.
Finally, texture and pattern bring personality. A sleek white table pops against a striped rug in the dining area, while a subtly patterned design supports velvet upholstery and moody hues in the lounge. And in a kids’ room, an oversized tiger rug becomes both a focal point and a soft spot for play. Metro Design Build’s approach makes one thing clear: a rug isn’t an afterthought—it’s the room’s quiet anchor.
For more design inspiration from Metro Design Build visit www.metrodesignbuildinc.com.
Let the Rug Lead
At Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors, the rug is often the very first piece selected in a design project—and for good reason. It sets the tone for the space, guiding everything from the color palette to the furniture layout. A soft, textured rug might evoke calm and warmth, while a bold pattern can energize a space and act as the jumping-off point for the rest of the design.
A well-chosen rug doesn’t just look good—it works hard. It anchors furniture, defines zones in open floor plans, and injects personality into otherwise neutral rooms. Sarah’s philosophy is clear: when you start with the right rug, everything else falls beautifully into place.
See more of Sarah Jacquelyn Interior’s Transitional Dining Room project here.
Sustainable Comfort with Style
For the design team at Epic Interiors, a rug is never just a finishing touch—it’s a functional element, an emotional anchor, and an opportunity to reflect the values of a space. In one Chicago family room, they selected a richly textured rug that signaled softness and comfort, creating a warm, inviting space made for connection. It wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about how the room should feel.
In a Lincoln Park girl’s bedroom, Epic Interiors leaned into personality and sustainability, selecting a Pottery Barn Teen rug made from recycled plastic bottles. It was playful and vibrant, perfectly suited to their young client, while also aligning with the studio’s eco-conscious values. For a large suburban family—parents plus eleven kids—the rug served as a quiet foundation. Amid bold artwork and expressive upholstery, it added cohesion and calm, allowing the layered design elements to harmonize rather than compete.
Thoughtful rug choices, in Epic Interiors’ world, are about more than just matching colors or patterns—they’re about creating spaces that reflect how people live, feel, and grow.
To learn more about Epic Interiors’ design ethos visit epic-interiors.com.
Thread by Thread
If you’re going to build your design from the ground up, why not start with something truly exceptional? Rizzy Home’s hand-knotted rugs offer unmatched quality and timeless style. Meticulously crafted in India through a fully vertical production process—from dyeing to weaving to finishing—these rugs are more than accessories; they’re heirloom pieces.
Available through Casa Bella, Rizzy rugs bring rich texture, durability, and character to high-traffic spaces, minimal interiors, and everywhere in between. Their longevity makes them a smart investment, while their artistry makes them unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to soften a living room, define an entryway, or simply add a layer of luxury, Rizzy rugs are where craftsmanship meets design intention.
Contact your Casa Bella rep today for more information or visit casabellaonline.com.
Outdoor Rug? Think Bigger (and Harder)
Let’s be honest—Roca Tile doesn’t sell rugs. But when it comes to outdoor spaces, who needs one? Their Pavers Styles collection is like the indestructible cousin of your indoor rug: thick, weatherproof, and stunningly stylish. These 20mm color-body porcelain tiles are made to withstand the elements, heavy traffic, driveway drama, and even the occasional garden party mishap.
Think of them as rugs made of stoneware—perfect for patios, walkways, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens. With finishes that mimic natural materials and tones that elevate any exterior aesthetic, they bring polish and practicality in equal measure. So next time you’re tempted to throw a jute rug outside and hope for the best, remember: Roca Tile’s pavers have you covered (literally and figuratively).
To see a full selection of their outdoor offerings visit rocatileusa.com.
Whether soft underfoot or solid as stone, your “rug” plays a critical role in shaping the experience of a space. The right one defines your layout, expresses your personality, and supports the way you live. So go bold, go soft, go sustainable—or go outside and call a tile a rug. Just make sure you choose with intention.
