What to know before you choose rugs & runners
An area rug is the design equivalent of drawing a line in the sand (but much softer). It helps define your space—especially in open floor plans—by framing furniture groupings and creating visual zones.
The trick to making an area rug work? Size and placement. Ideally, your rug should be large enough for at least the front legs of your furniture to sit on it. That way, everything feels cohesive, not like it’s floating in space.
Area rugs are available in endless patterns, textures, and pile heights. You can use them to introduce a bold focal point or to quietly tie the room together. Either way, they’re the element that makes everything else in the room make sense. And yes, they also absorb sound, reduce slips, and keep dust and dirt from traveling too far inside.
Runners are ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and entryways—adding comfort and character in one long line.
Besides adding comfort underfoot, runners help guide the eye and add a finished look to spaces that are often overlooked. They’re perfect for layering in texture, adding a pop of color, or softening hard flooring in areas where you’re constantly on your feet.
And yes, they also absorb sound, reduce slips, and keep dust and dirt from traveling too far inside. Form and function, rolled into one long, stylish line.
A rug is one of the most transformative design tools at your disposal. Rugs ground your space (literally), add softness underfoot, and set the color tone for a room. Rugs are great for centering a room in your home, creating zones within a space, decorating, dancing on (the list goes on and on). Choose one that makes your room feel complete. And yes, they also absorb sound, reduce slips, and keep dust and dirt from traveling too far inside.
Rugs can be made of many fibers, such as nylon, wool, acrylic, cotton, or polyester. Wool is cozy and durable. Cotton is light and breathable. Synthetics are ultra-practical and budget-friendly. You’ll also find jute, sisal, and even recycled materials for more textural, eco-conscious options.
Whether you’re layering multiple rugs for depth or using one large area rug to unify a space, your rug choice can define the energy of a room. Just be sure to size it right—going too small is one of the most common design mistakes.
Pro tip: Area rugs and runner rugs that are meant to encompass an entire room or hallway should be 8-15” off of the wall creating a border of floor around them.
How do you select a color palette for bedroom rugs & runners?
Choosing the right color palette for your bedroom is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your bedroom. Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the bedroom design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
Understanding the color wheel: black
Black can be both a bold statement and a subtle accent in a bedroom. When using black in your decor, it's important to consider balance and proportion. Too much black (or other dark colors) can make a large space feel heavy or overwhelming. Consider using black as an accent color or incorporating it in smaller doses throughout your space. A black feature wall, floor, or ceiling can create dramatic impact, making the space feel grounded and expansive without overpowering. Black accent furniture, such as a sleek sofa, a lacquered table, or matte chairs, can serve as elegant anchors in a room.
Black pairs beautifully with pretty much any other color. For a bold, contemporary look, pair black with vibrant primary colors like red, yellow, or blue. For a softer, more timeless palette, combine black with pastel shades or warm neutrals. To prevent black from making a room feel too dark or heavy, balance it with lighter elements and varied textures. Pair black with whites, creams, or light grays to create a striking contrast. Black and white patterns can add a dynamic layer to your room whether it’s through a bold striped rug, geometric tile, or an intricate wallpaper design.
Lighting plays a crucial role in how black is perceived in a space. Ample natural light can soften the intensity of black and highlight its elegance. Consider using black as a backdrop for mirrors or metallic accents. Incorporate materials like glass, metal, or textured fabrics to add visual interest and depth. The contrast between black and reflective surfaces can create a sense of depth and add a touch of glamor. Incorporating different lighting sources like pendant lights or table lamps can create a warm and inviting ambiance against a black backdrop.
How do you pick a design style for a black bedroom rugs & runners makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your bedroom is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the bedroom style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your bedroom makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
What’s the best way to design and decorate a black bedroom?
Whether you are designing for yourself or someone else, bedrooms should be cozy and comfortable, providing a space to unwind, recharge, and escape the chaos of the world. Even if your typical design style is more maximalist, bedrooms usually lean more minimalist to offer a serene backdrop for a good night’s sleep. Bedroom layouts are also more simple. The square footage of your bedroom and size of your bed frame will typically dictate the best layout.
Whether you're in the process of a bedroom remodel or looking to makeover your existing one, these are the key elements to include in your design:|
- Paint or Wallpaper: Bedroom walls set the mood for the space. Select a color or pattern that complements the style you want to achieve. We are partial to covering walls, ceilings, and trim in a uniform paint color to create a cohesive look. Or consider an accent wall to serve as a focal point.
- Bed: The bed is the centerpiece and typical focal point of any bedroom, providing a comfortable and restful place to sleep. It typically includes a mattress, bed frame, and headboard. Your black style can really shine by selecting bedding (sheets, duvet covers, and pillows) that match the aesthetic.
- Nightstands: Nightstands (or bedside tables) are small tables or cabinets placed on either side of the bed. They provide a convenient surface for placing bedside lamps, alarm clocks, books, and other personal items. Pro tip: Bedside tables should be placed 2-4 inches from the bed frame and no more than 24 inches deep (any deeper and it can be pretty uncomfortable to get in and out of bed). If you choose to add a table lamp or a sconce, keep in mind the depth of the light to ensure you have enough space on the bedside table.
- Area Rug: It’s common to include an area rug in a bedroom for extra warmth and coziness. There are three common layout options for rugs in the bedroom. Option 1, place the bed and nightstands entirely on the rug. Option 2, place ⅔ of the bed on the rug, with 24 inches extending beyond the sides of the bed. Option 3, place two runners along each side of the bed (the runners should be wider than the bedside tables, if possible).
- Decorative Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered lighting scheme. Typically in a bedroom, you’d want a flush surface mount or chandelier on the ceiling and wall-mounted sconces or table lamps on each side of the bed. Consider the placement of lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows and evenly light the space. Dimmer switches can adjust the mood.
- Curtains or Blinds: In bedrooms, window treatments are not just design statements. They help promote a restful sleep environment, while also adding a layer of privacy and warmth. Opting for blackout or heavy, lined curtains can enhance these effects, making them perfect for ensuring comfort and tranquility. Don’t forget a curtain rod!
- ** Bedroom Decor**: From accent pillows and throw blankets to bedside table lamps and wall art, bedroom accessories should be both functional and decorative. Coordinate the color and pattern with the overall bedroom color scheme and style to bring your design vision to life.
Get creative and have fun with your bedroom! If you need an extra hand, check out our step-by-step guide on How To Design a Bedroom.