How to Use a Contemporary Area Rug with Older Style Homes

Bold patterns, unusual forms, look-at-me colors: there’s something about contemporary area rugs that simply catches the eye. Indeed, many homeowners have bought modern area rugs on impulse for the way they stand out and make a statement. Unfortunately, that “statement” is often gone as soon as you set it down on your floor. Contemporary rugs may be stylish, but they certainly won’t work for every home.

You don’t need a postmodern home to make a contemporary rug work. What you need is some creativity, and perhaps a few style tips. Read on for a few tips and tricks on using contemporary area rugs in older-style homes.

Plains and Prints: The Universal Rule

Boldness is the key characteristic of contemporary area rugs. To make them stand out, follow rule number one: never place print against print. Contemporary patterns attract more attention when placed against a plain, understated background. If you have colorful tiles, consider placing a larger area rug or a solid-colored wall-to-wall carpet underneath to better bring out the pattern.

Plain on plain is more acceptable, but tends to be boring. If you’re getting a plain rug, get one in a standout color—red, green, or blue area rugs are more interesting than the usual white or beige area rugs.

Go For Contrast

Modern home design is about contrast: light and dark, smooth and rough, old and new. Take your cue from Zen design: combine natural and manmade materials to achieve a strong yet discreet contrast. If you’ve got polished hardwood floors, a couple of sleek nylon area rugs can add a modern touch to the room. Tile and marble tend to look cold, so warm them up with soft jute or bamboo area rugs. Add to the natural feel by choosing hand-knotted area rugs—they look and feel softer and provide better protection for your floors.

Think Functional

Function is another defining element of modern design. Contemporary area rugs are made to fill multiple roles, both in the practical and aesthetic sense. When looking at rugs, think of how each one will be used and what they can contribute to the overall décor. Floor protection is standard among area rugs, so think beyond that. Large, soft rugs can double as kids’ area rugs or play areas. Braided area rugs can be used in high-traffic areas such as the living room while serving as a stylish padding for your furniture. The point is that they should be useful—there’s no point in getting those lush oriental area rugs when people always have to step around them.

Mix and Match

Don’t be afraid to mix and match area rugs. Make some sketches and experiment with different combinations of color, pattern, size and fabric. Add some interest by getting rugs in different sizes, or set of an eco-friendly theme with bright green area rugs. If you’re not comfortable with the bold choices, take it one room at a time—start by “modernizing” your bedroom and move on to larger rooms as you get more comfortable.