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 rugs & runners?
Choosing the right color palette for your 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 . 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 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: blue
If you want to make a bold statement with blue, consider painting the whole (ceilings included) in a single shade of blue. No one regrets painting a blue.
Decorating with blue can transform any space into a serene sanctuary or a dynamic cozy cocoon, depending on its shade and application. Lighter shades of blue like sky blue or baby blue can create a sense of openness and freshness and a soothing atmosphere, while darker shades like navy blue or royal blue can add depth, elegance, and sophistication.
Blue pairs beautifully with a range of colors. For a classic, crisp look, combine it with white or cream. For warmth, juxtapose blues against earth tones like sandy beiges or soft browns. For a more dynamic and contemporary color palette, consider coral or mustard (orange is the complementary color opposite blue on the color wheel), which provide a striking contrast and elevate the vibrancy of the space.
Don't shy away from mixing different shades of blue within the same space. Layering light and dark blues can create a sophisticated and dynamic aesthetic. This approach works well in spaces where you want to maintain a monochromatic scheme without it feeling flat or uninteresting.
Blue is often associated with the sea and the sky, making it a perfect choice for creating a coastal or beach-inspired room. Pair blue with white or sandy beige tones or incorporate nautical elements like striped patterns, seashells, or rope accents to enhance the coastal aesthetic.
How do you pick a design style for a blue rugs & runners makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your 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 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 makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.