How to Mix and Match Rugs and Runners with Your Existing Décor

When it comes to home décor, few pieces hold the power to transform a space as quickly as rugs and runners. These versatile accessories not only add warmth & comfort to a room but also offer a way to infuse personality, color & texture.

Whether you're updating your living room or enhancing your hallway, mixing and matching rugs and runners with your existing décor can be a fun yet tricky task. But with the right approach, you can create a harmonious & stylish interior that feels both cohesive & inviting.

1. Understand the Purpose of Rugs and Runners in Your Space

Before you start mixing and matching, it's essential to understand the primary function of the rugs and runners in your space. Rugs and runners serve a variety of purposes, from adding comfort underfoot to defining spaces and creating visual interest. In larger open-plan rooms, they can be used to break up areas, like separating the living room from the dining space. In hallways, runners provide both a practical and aesthetic solution by adding color & texture without overwhelming the narrow space.

Understanding the function of each rug and runner will guide your choices and help you blend them seamlessly with your existing décor.

2. Play with Size and Shape

One of the easiest ways to mix & match rugs and runners is by playing with different sizes and shapes. While large area rugs are often used to anchor furniture in the center of a room, smaller rugs and runners can complement these by being placed in other areas to create a layered effect. You can place a smaller rug over a large area rug to add texture or layer a runner in the hallway to complement your entryway rug.

The key here is balance. If your room has a large rectangular rug, a round or square runner can create an interesting contrast. Conversely, if you have a round rug in one area, opting for rectangular runners can provide an elegant contrast. The different shapes help break the monotony and bring new dimensions to the room.

3. Match Colors and Patterns Thoughtfully

When it comes to mixing & matching rugs & runners, color & pattern play a critical role in creating a cohesive look. You don’t have to match rugs exactly, but they should complement each other in a way that feels intentional. Here’s how to approach this:

• Solid Colors and Patterns: If you have a bold patterned rug in the living room, consider using a solid-colored runner in the hallway or entryway. The key is to choose a color from the patterned rug that will help tie the two spaces together. For example, a navy blue rug in the living room could be complemented by a navy runner in the hallway, even if the patterns are completely different.
• Coordinated Patterns: If you love patterns, make sure they are coordinated. For instance, mixing a geometric pattern with a more traditional or floral pattern can work as long as the colors in each rug match. You can achieve this by finding patterns with a similar color palette, such as earthy tones or muted hues that evoke a natural and serene vibe.
• Match with Accents: Another way to blend rugs and runners is by matching them with other design accents in the room, such as throw pillows, curtains, or wall art. For example, if your living room features floral throw pillows, a runner with a subtle floral motif can tie the space together without overwhelming the eyes.

4. Texture Matters

Texture is just as important as color & pattern when it comes to mixing & matching rugs and runners. Different textures can add richness and depth to a room, creating a sense of coziness & warmth.

• Contrast Textures: If your main rug is plush and soft, consider adding a runner with a more textured weave, like a jute or sisal runner. This contrast will add a dynamic element to your space. A woven runner, for example, works beautifully with a soft, shaggy rug, providing both tactile interest & balance.
• Complement Existing Fabrics: The texture of your rugs and runners should complement the fabrics already present in your room. For example, if you have velvet cushions or drapery, a sleek, low-pile rug will enhance the luxurious feel. On the other hand, if your space features a lot of raw wood or natural elements, a coarser texture like jute or wool will blend beautifully with the organic materials.

5. Consider Your Home’s Flow and Movement

In an open-concept space, where rooms flow into each other, rugs and runners should be arranged in a way that maintains a sense of continuity & movement. Try to avoid abrupt transitions between different rugs, as this can make a space feel disjointed.

• Use Rugs to Define Zones: If your space has multiple areas with different functions, rugs & runners can help define each zone. For example, in a living area and dining area, a large rug under the dining table and a smaller rug under the couch can demarcate the two spaces while still maintaining a cohesive flow.
• Runner Placement in Hallways and Entryways: When adding a runner to a hallway or entryway, make sure it complements the main living areas. A patterned runner with the same colors as the rug in the living room or dining room can connect the different areas. Make sure there is enough space around the runner to avoid a cramped feel.

6. Experiment with Layering

Layering rugs is an excellent way to mix & match different styles, colors, and textures. A smaller rug layered over a larger one can create a sense of depth & dimension. You can even try combining different materials, such as layering a leather rug over a wool rug, to add richness & contrast.

When layering, it’s essential to maintain a sense of balance. Make sure the rugs have enough contrast to stand out but aren’t so different that they clash. You can also add an element of surprise, such as a bold geometric rug layered over a more neutral rug, to bring some playful energy into your décor.

7. Use Rugs to Highlight Specific Areas

If your décor features artwork or furniture pieces that you want to highlight, rugs and runners can serve as a framing tool. For example, placing a rug runners under a piece of artwork or a unique furniture piece can draw attention to that area & make it feel like the focal point of the room.

Mixing & matching rugs and runners with your existing décor doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding their purpose, balancing colors & experimenting with textures & patterns, you can easily elevate the style of any room. With a little creativity, your rugs and runners can become an integral part of your home’s décor, enhancing its beauty & functionality.