Choosing the right rug shape for a space can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a room. The shape of a rug can play a crucial role in defining the layout, creating visual harmony, and enhancing the aesthetics of your living area. Whether you opt for the classic rectangle, the chic round, the versatile runner, or even the unique octagon, each shape brings its own character and charm to your decor scheme.
Rectangular rugs are the most traditional and widely used shape, offering a sense of symmetry and structure that can anchor furniture arrangements. They work exceptionally well in living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms, where their defined edges can neatly align with furniture lines, contributing to a balanced and cohesive visual appeal.
On the other hand, round rugs introduce a soft and inviting touch to spaces. They are particularly effective in breaking the monotony of straight lines and adding an element of surprise. Placing a round rug beneath a circular table, in a foyer, or even in open spaces can create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere while breaking away from traditional geometric conventions.
Ultimately, the right rug shape should harmonise with the proportions of your room and the existing layout. It should complement the overall design while contributing to the functional and aesthetic aspects of your space. With a wide array of rug shapes at your disposal, you have the freedom to experiment and find the perfect shape that aligns with your vision, enhancing the overall ambiance of your home.
Bodrum Distressed Tribal Rug styled by Shift Property Styling
Round Rugs for every room
Round rugs, also known as circle rugs, are exactly as they sound - rugs that are shaped in a perfect circle. They come in a variety of sizes, with diameters typically ranging from as small as 150cm for accent areas to as large as 240cm feet or more for spacious rooms. This wide range of sizes ensures that you can find the perfect fit for any space in your home.
Unlike their rectangular or square counterparts, round rugs lack straight edges and corners, which lends them a softer, more fluid visual appeal. This unique shape adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. The absence of sharp angles creates a sense of harmony and balance, making circular rugs an excellent choice for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
When it comes to materials, round rugs offer endless possibilities. They can be made from luxurious wool, durable synthetic fibres, soft cotton, or even natural fibres such as jute or sisal. Each material brings its own unique texture and feel to the rug, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style and preferences.
In terms of design, round area rugs offer a wide range of options to suit any aesthetic. From solid colours and subtle patterns to bold prints and intricate motifs, there is a round rug design for every taste. This versatility allows you to use circle rugs as statement pieces or as complementary accents, depending on your desired look.
A well-chosen round rug can truly transform a space. It can soften the straight lines of a room, adding a touch of warmth and comfort. Additionally, they can serve as an eye-catching centrepiece, drawing attention and becoming a focal point in any area of your home. Whether placed in the living room, bedroom, or even the hallway, a round rug is sure to make a statement and elevate the overall decor.
Round rugs offer a unique and stylish option for enhancing the visual appeal of your home. With their circular shape, diverse materials, and endless design possibilities, they provide a versatile and elegant solution for adding warmth, style, and personality to any space.
Pros and Cons of Round Rugs
Like any other home decor solution, round floor rugs have their own set of advantages that make them a popular choice among homeowners and interior designers. To start with, their circular shape is perfect for softening a room filled with straight lines and sharp angles, as it introduces an element of fluidity and grace. This is especially beneficial in rooms with square or rectangular furniture, where a round rug can balance out the rigidity and provide a refreshing contrast.
Furthermore, round rugs can be used to highlight specific pieces of furniture. For instance, placing a circular rug under a circular dining table or coffee table can help to underscore these pieces, drawing attention to their shape and design. This is a simple yet effective way to create focal points in a room and add depth to the overall decor.
Another advantage of round rugs is their ability to make a room appear larger. Their circular design can give the illusion of more space, making them an excellent option for small rooms or areas where space optimisation is a priority.
However, round rugs also have certain limitations that need consideration. For instance, they may not be the best fit for narrow or elongated spaces which are better suited to rectangular or runner rugs. In such spaces, a rounded rug can disrupt the linear flow, making the area look disjointed or cluttered.
Round area rugs might not blend well with rooms that primarily have linear furniture arrangements. Rooms with a lot of square or rectangular furniture can create a jarring contrast with a rounded rug, compromising the harmony of the space.
Catalina Jute Rug styled by Shift Property Styling
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Round and Rectangular Rugs
When deciding between a round or rectangular rug, several factors should be considered:
- Room Shape and Size: For square or circular rooms, a round rug can complement the space beautifully, while rectangular rooms are often better paired with rectangular rugs. However, this is not a hard and fast rule and alternative shaped rugs can still be used effectively in a rectangular room, particularly to soften the look or create a focal point.
- Furniture Placement: The shape of your furniture and its placement in the room can also influence the choice of rug shape. Round rugs work well under round tables or in seating areas with curved furniture. However, for linear furniture arrangements, a rectangular rug may offer a better fit.
- Room Function: The purpose of the room also matters. In dining rooms or under large round tables, a round rug can help define the space and highlight the table. For living rooms or bedrooms, the rug shape may depend more on the furniture layout and personal preference.
- Personal Style: Ultimately, your rug should reflect your personal style and the aesthetic you want for your space. Round rugs can lend a soft, organic feel to a room, while rectangular rugs can provide a sense of order and structure. Consider which vibe aligns best with your overall decor and sense of style.
Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels balanced and cohesive, so don't be afraid to experiment with different shapes and sizes until you find the perfect fit.
Burleigh Jute Rug styled by Shift Property Styling
Tips for Selecting the Right Rug Shape and Size
When selecting the right rug shape and size, it's essential to consider the following practical tips:
- Measure Your Space: Use a measuring tape to determine the dimensions of the space where you plan to place the rug. This will give you a clear idea of the maximum and minimum rug sizes that could work in that area. A helpful rule of thumb for living rooms is to choose a rug that is at least large enough for the front legs of all furniture to rest on it.
- Consider Your Existing Furniture Arrangement: If you have a round coffee table, for example, a round rug might complement it nicely. If your furniture is spaced out, a larger rug can help unify the items into a cohesive group.
- Visualise the Rug in Your Space: Use painter's tape to outline the size and shape of the potential rug on the floor. This can give you a visual sense of how the rug will fit within your room. Or try our Rug Visualiser tool to explore the possibilities.
- Think About Foot Traffic: In high-traffic areas, a smaller rug that is easy to clean might be a better choice, especially if it's round, as round rugs can handle foot traffic from all directions very well.
When choosing a rug, it's important to remember that it should not only complement your style but also align with the practical needs of your space. Consider factors such as the durability of the rug material, its resistance to stains, and its ability to withstand high foot traffic. By taking these details into account, you can ensure that your rug not only looks great but also serves its purpose effectively.
To sum up, choosing the right rug, whether it's a rectangle rug, a round rug, or even a square rug, is a matter of careful consideration. First, it's essential to measure your space accurately to identify the correct rug size. Second, taking into account your existing furniture arrangement can inform the shape of rug that will harmonise best with your room. Third, visualising the rug in your space, either physically with painter's tape or digitally with our Rug Visualiser tool, can help you appreciate how the rug will fit within your room. Fourth, think about foot traffic. Round rugs are particularly effective in high-traffic areas due to their resilience and easy-to-clean nature. Lastly, a rug's practical aspects, such as durability, stain resistance, and foot traffic tolerance, are as important as its aesthetic appeal. By considering these points, you can ensure that your choice of rug will be a perfect fit for your space and lifestyle.
All images styled by Shift Property Styling.
