Clever Tricks for Using 2+ Rugs in One Room

Adding multiple rugs to a single room may seem counterintuitive. But when executed thoughtfully, layering rugs is an easy way to infuse rooms with added personality. The right rug duo or trio introduces covetable dimension, irresistible texture, and graphic visual interest. Follow these expert tips for effortlessly blending rugs so spaces sing--not sink--under styled rug layers.

Choose Rugs in Harmonizing Color Palette

A cohesive color story ties disparate rug layers together. Opt for rugs in matching hues or complementary tones on the color wheel, like navy and burnt orange. Analogous cool-toned rugs in shades of blue, green and gray make an elegantly soothing color scheme. For bolder contrast, pair deeper jewel tones with paler pastels.

When combining multiple rugs, pay attention to color value and intensity too. Keep intensity levels cohesive instead of clashing brights with muted palettes in one space. And stick to a specific value range to prevent dark rugs from appearing too heavy.

Create a Focal Point

If you have two rugs in one room, consider using one as a focal point. This rug can be larger, more vibrant, or have a unique pattern to draw the eye. Place it in the center of the room and arrange the furniture around it. This will create a clear focal point and prevent the room from feeling too cluttered.

Coordinate Rug Styles and Patterns

When it comes to patterns, choose rugs with either coordinated prints or purposefully contrasting designs. Matching stripe for stripe and floral for floral creates a pulled-together layered rug look. Or artfully clash patterns in consistent scale like buffalo check with Tribal motifs or whimsical dots with Persian medallions.

For foolproof pattern blending, stick to the same color palette and rotate prints perpendicular to each other. This adds organized visual interest without overwhelming the space. And feel free to anchor busier prints with a grounding solid rug underneath.

Use a Bold Color or Pattern

To make two rugs in one room work, consider using a bold color or pattern on one of the rugs. This rug can serve as an accent piece and add visual interest to the room. Be sure to choose a color or pattern that complements the other rug and the overall aesthetic of the room.

Mind the Dimensions

When layering area rugs, always start with a substantial foundation rug first. This larger bottom rug anchors the space and should extend well under furniture placements. Then have fun scaling down rug sizes in progressive layers according to your layout.

Keep the dimensional difference significant between sizes instead of barely overlapping edges. Pairing a 9'x12' shag rug with an 8'x10' dhurrie, for example, makes dimensions feel considered. But a 12-inch size difference seems more accidental than intentional.

Mix and Match Textures

Another way to make two rugs in one room work is to mix and match textures. For example, you might choose a wool rug with a simple pattern and a jute rug with a more intricate design. The textures will complement each other and add depth to the room.

Fabric and Texture Combinations

Rugs come in an endless array of fabrics like wool, cotton, jute and silk that each impart distinctive textures. Layer natural fibers like seagrass or sisal over plush shags for delightful contrast. Introduce cozy sheepskins and geometric dhurries over casual cottons. Or overlap high-low piles for ultra tactile dimension.

And don't forget that varying weave densities impacts texture too. For eclectic spaces, play with mixing distressed tribal rugs over subtly lustrous silk carpets. The textural possibilities for rug layers are truly endless.

Consider the Room's Purpose

When choosing two rugs for one room, think about the room's purpose. For example, if it's a high-traffic area like a foyer or hallway, opt for durable rugs that can handle foot traffic. In living spaces like family rooms, layer plush rugs for extra coziness. And in dining spaces, use stain-resistant rugs in case of spills and drips. Matching rugs to room functions ensures layered rugs stand the test of time.

Arrange Furniture First

The furniture layout should anchor the overall floor plan, while layered rugs help zone spaces within it. Finalize sofas, coffee tables and other seating arrangements first. Then place the largest foundation rug leaving ample bare floor space as a buffer zone on all open sides.

Add smaller rugs nearby either underneath additional furnishings or floating freely as a visual accent. Take care not overcrowd the negative space around and between rug layers or spaces risk looking cluttered.

Finish with Final Styling Touches

Once rug layers are smartly situated and scaled, adorn and accessorize the space for a curated feel. Flank furniture with eye-catching pillows bearing prints that tie back into both area rugs. Drape cozy woven blankets nearby for textural harmony and functional flair. Then punctuate styled vignettes with potted fronds, modern sculptures or found object vases.

Make art choices that complement both rug patterns for a holistic room scheme. And edit ruthlessly until every accessory enhances--not competes with--the thoughtful rugscape below. This elevates eclectic layered rug looks from casual chaos into purposeful polish.

Maintaining Rug Layers

With great rug layers comes great maintenance responsibility. Regularly vacuum top layers to prevent buried debris from abrading underlying rugs. Schedule professional carpet cleaning for all rugs at least once a year--twice for high-traffic areas--paying special attention to edges and corners.

Prevent buckling edges and slipping hazards with non-slip rug pads and carpet tapes for all bottommost rugs, along with weighty furnishings on top. And immediately handle spills and stains to avoid permanent damage to delicate rug fibers.

Achieving Custom Stacked Rug Looks

For perfectly flush rug layers, order custom-bound rugs cut precisely to size. This eliminates gaps from size discrepancies for incredibly luxe built-in cohesion. Or invest in washable non-slip mesh rug backings that help stabilize layers while preventing injury.

Procure expertise from a reputable rug company to discuss fit and budget for customized creations. Completely custom rugs tailored to exact room dimensions start around $4,000. Pre-made overstock rugs trimmed onsite for modified fits are vastly less.

Blending multiple rugs in shared spaces makes a stunning style statement when executed strategically. Carefully coordinate colors, patterns, textures and layouts so rug layers harmonize beautifully. Peruse area rug options until finding a flawless match made in design heaven. Then adorn those thoughtfully composed carpets with pillows, accessories and art echoing matching motifs. Now confidently concoct showstopping layered rugscapes guaranteed to wow in any well-appointed room.