The Complete Guide to Styling with Burgundy Rugs in Your Living Room
With their rich, elegant hue, burgundy rugs can infuse any living room with a sense of sophistication. Strategically placing a burgundy rug can help ground your furniture arrangement, define separate spaces, and pull together your overall decor. But with so many options for sizes, textures, and styles, choosing the perfect burgundy rug requires careful consideration.
You'll learn expert tips for selecting the right size and placement based on your room dimensions, as well as complementary textures and patterns to enhance your existing decor. Read on for advice on effortlessly incorporating burgundy rugs into any living room aesthetic.
Picking the Perfect Size Burgundy Rug
When selecting a burgundy area rug for your living room, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right size. You want your rug to be proportional to the overall scale of the space. An undersized rug can make your room feel disjointed and awkward. On the other hand, an oversized rug can overpower the room and available floor space.
As a general guideline, make sure there is at least 12 inches of bare floor visible around the perimeter of the rug. This creates a nice framed effect. All furniture legs should sit atop the rug, so measure based on your existing layout. In seating areas, make sure the front legs of chairs and sofas are anchored on the rug.
For larger open concept living rooms, a 8x10 or 9x12 rug can define a sitting area without overwhelming the space. For more intimate spaces, a 5x8 or 6x9 rug provides sufficient coverage without crowding the room.
Complementing Your Style with the Right Burgundy Rug
Beyond just size considerations, it's important to pick a burgundy rug style that complements your existing decor. There are a myriad of options when it comes to patterns, textures, and weaves. The key is choosing an area rug that enhances, rather than competes with, your living room's overall aesthetic.
For traditional living rooms, a Persian or Oriental style burgundy rug adds a timeless elegance. Intricate floral motifs work well with antique, French provincial, or Victorian furnishings. Or impart a relaxed rustic vibe with a simple woven jute rug.
In modern or contemporary rooms, sleeker burgundy rugs help maintain the streamlined look. Abstract designs or solid shag textures provide visual interest without clutter. Try pairing with mid-century or industrial elements.
Don't be afraid to mix modern and traditional either. A shag burgundy rug can provide a nice contrast against wingback chairs. Or juxtapose an Oriental pattern with sleek leather sofas.
Placement Tips for Maximizing Your Burgundy Rug
Proper placement is crucial when decorating with any area rug. Burgundy rugs can be used in multiple areas of an open concept living room to help delineate separate spaces.
Try placing your burgundy rug:
- In front of a sofa or sectional as a focal point
- Underneath a coffee table to define a sitting area
- Layered over wall-to-wall carpeting for added visual interest
- To ground a reading nook or designated office area
- Beside a fireplace to bring warmth to a lounging space
In a large living room, using two moderately sized burgundy rugs to anchor a couple seating areas prevents the space from feeling too sparse. Floating furniture atop a rug frames the arrangement.
For oddly shaped living rooms, a burgundy rug can also help mitigate challenging dimensions. Anchoring furniture atop a rectangular or oval rug downplays angled walls or bay windows.
Choosing the Best Material and Texture
Burgundy rugs come in a range of materials, each with their own properties. Determine whether you want a plush, luxurious rug or a casual, everyday option:
Wool - Soft wool rugs are sumptuous and durable. The natural fibers insulate from cold floors. Wool also hides dirt well and is fairly easy to spot clean.
Cotton - Cotton rugs have a casual, relaxed vibe. Cotton is a breathable, absorbent material that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Polyester - For an affordable burgundy rug, polyester is a good option. Polyester rugs are colorfast, stain resistant, and easy to clean.
Jute - Made from natural fibers, jute has a rustic, organic texture. Jute rugs are durable but may shed more than other materials.
Leather - Leather rugs add a luxe, sophisticated style. Leather is easy to maintain, comfortable underfoot, and ages beautifully over time.
The texture of your burgundy rug also impacts its aesthetic. Shag rugs have a cozy, relaxed vibe. Flatweave or low pile rugs feel sleek and tailored. Choose whichever fits your style.
Tying It All Together with Decor Accents
After selecting your burgundy rug, pull the rest of the space together through accent decor that complements the rich hue. Incorporate burgundy tones into throw pillows, blankets, curtains or other fabrics.
Display art, paintings or wall hangings in shades of burgundy or deep red. Place matching vases, candles or decorative objects atop side tables or console tops. For contrast, add navy blue and charcoal grey accents along with metallics like bronze, gold and silver.
The key is continuing the burgundy color palette throughout the room. This creates a cohesive, luxe environment that feels intentional. Let your rug be the jumping off point for a complete living room refresh.
Once you've incorporated that perfect burgundy rug into your living room, be sure to care for it properly so it retains its beauty. Vacuum your rug at least once a week to remove dust and dirt. Immediately spot clean any liquid spills by blotting gently with a clean cloth.
Periodically, have your rug professionally deep cleaned to revitalize the fibers and colors. Fluff up the pile with your hands or a specialized rug brush. Finally, use rug pads to limit slipping, sliding, and damage to floors.
burgundy rugs can elevate your living room style. Define spaces, pull together furniture groupings and tie in accent colors for a polished, put-together look. Use this comprehensive guide to decorate with confidence using this timeless, sophisticated hue.