This or that? 

Aesthetics

The rug must fit into the overall design aesthetics and interior decor of your room. Notice the colour that dominates the walls or have you used a wallpaper of a particular pastel shade? Once you finalise which colour dominates your room’s aesthetics, buy a rug to match. Or you could choose a rug of a complementary colour; a colour, which at first glance contrasts with the dominant or other colours in your room but on a second analysis, complements them to gel in perfectly in the overall aesthetic harmony of your room. For instance, if you have cream coloured walls, a brown toned rug would happily complement the cream and together they would look superb. 

Traffic

High traffic areas such as a living room need flat-woven or low-pile carpets as they are easier to maintain. The bedroom, on the other hand, will see less traffic so you can keep a deep-pile or a shag rag. They feel luxurious underfoot and you can even sit and relax on them as and when you like. 

Upkeep

Even the toughest carpet will need regular maintenance; it will need to be dusted and aired once in a while. How much will you be able to spend on cleaning? Large rugs are better given to dry cleaners to ensure they are properly cleaned. Big woollen rugs can really be burdensome to clean and if not cleaned regularly will give out a musty scent if not cleaned for a long time. 

Pattern

This factor comes into consideration when you’re opting for a legacy or antique rug. If you’re spending a huge sum of money, you should think about what pattern you want on it. Usually, Persian or Turkish rugs come with the best patterns and find their way into the treasure trove of family heirlooms that you can hand down to your children. 

Budget

A rug is sure to pinch your pocket; the question is how deep? Man made rugs will be way more expensive than machine rugs. Fibres like wool and silk fall under the category of luxury rugs but remain worthy of the price they command. 

Climate

The last but maybe the most important consideration would be the climate you live in. Warm, tropical climates require light rugs made of natural fibres because they won’t trap heat, at the same time, adding to the elegance of the room. But if you live in a cool temperate climate, you will need a high-pile or a shag rug. It will keep the room warm and be an excellent seat where you can curl up and read. 

Overall, rugs draw attention because of their sheer beauty and elegance. But that’s not all they do. They protect the floor from damage caused by daily traffic and weather elements. They also insulate the room, muffling the sound of footsteps and providing slip resistance in wet areas. Finally, they provide comfort underfoot; imagine walking on a soft rug; the pleasure is immense; is it not? 

Although a machine made rug will be easier to clean and maintain, it will never match the quality and sophistication of an antique silk or wool rug. Antique rugs, whether vintage or contemporary in design lend that unique touch to your home making a statement about who you are as a person. They add warmth and texture making your room cosier and inviting.