In the 1960s, wall-to-wall carpeting was all the rage. Carpets led the pack in making a room look formal, sophisticated or cozy. Fast forward to the present and we see the domination of area rugs as the preference for floor covering or floor decor. Area rugs do not only give off a formal, sophisticated or cozy look, but depending on the color, shape or pattern, rugs reflect a casual, laidback or playful spirit.

The function of area rugs as effective floor protectors make these decors an easy choice, especially given the range of prices that even the most scrupulous of buyers can’t complain about. Area rugs are also easier to maintain and clean than carpets hence, a lighter load for household chores.

Area rugs come in different styles. Every whim and demand for a color, material, price or design can be met. If you’re too meticulous with how rugs are made, well then, you won’t be disappointed because rugs can be handmade, machine-made, woven, weaved or braided…anything you want, there’s certainly a rug for you.

High-end Rugs

Persian Rugs and Oriental Rugs

These rugs are the elite of the rug world. Both have a long history dating back to the ancient times when Persia was at its height of civilization and the Far East was rich with the early teachings of Confucianism. Area rugs that are originally made from Persia and the Far East are surely steeper in price compared to replicas or imitations from other places.

Persian and Oriental rugs are similar in the intricacies of design and the richness of colors. However, Persian rugs make use of pictures as design while Oriental rugs make use of geometric forms. The color of the Persian rugs are also somewhat more colorful than the latter.

Both rugs come in all shapes and sizes. Mostly though, prefer to have a bigger size to display as a room’s centerpiece. Who could blame them? Such beautiful works of art deserve to be given much attention. Others even make Persian and Oriental rugs as alternatives to expensive paintings to adorn their walls with. Not surprising. With a slight gap in price with most paintings, these rugs do make credible wall hangings, indeed.

Simple, Very Affordable, Recycled Rugs

Braided Rugs and Rag Rugs

If you’re more concerned with your budget, go for braided rugs or rag rugs. These are nice rugs that come in different sizes and colors too, but cheaper than Persian and Oriental rugs. Braided rugs and rag rugs are made of old or used materials, so recycling enthusiasts will take great pride in owning such decorations.

Braided rugs from its name are rolled and sewn, and are predominantly oval or round in shape. Rag rugs on the other hand, are merely sewn or weaved together and are in square or rectangular shape.

Both these rugs are American art forms with a process that has been handed down to many generations. Handmade braided rugs and rag rugs are still common, although more and more of these rugs are now produced by machines. These two rugs are preferred especially for an old American country home theme.

Highly Functional Rug

Bathroom Rugs

You CANNOT not have this rug in your bathroom. It’s a safety precaution for slipping accidents. It also puts wetness at bay that can also be a neat freak’s pet peeve for bathroom maintenance. Bathroom rugs are made of water resistant materials and a rubber-backing ideal for tile floors and wet prone areas, specifically of which, is the bathroom. Some use bathroom rugs for their laundry area and the kitchen, particularly near the sink. Bathroom rugs, being a floor decor will also help in adding color or design to the room, as well as give comfort to the feet.