Mixing multiple rugs in an open-plan space can be a great way to add character, depth, and warmth to your home. While using the same rug throughout may offer simplicity, choosing different designs that complement each other can create a more dynamic and visually interesting environment. Additionally, coordinating area rugs based off material, style and colour can help to create a cohesive look that balances different textures to achieve harmony in a multi-rug setting.
Whether you’re aiming to zone different areas or simply add a bit of flair to your décor, this guide will help you make the most of your area rugs and transform your open-plan room into a harmonious, inviting space.
A Selection of Authentic Gabbeh Rugs
Understanding Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans have become increasingly popular in modern home design, offering a sense of freedom and flexibility that traditional layouts often lack. Unlike conventional floor plans. open floor plans combine multiple living spaces into a single, expansive area.
To make the most of an open floor plan, it’s essential to consider the various activities that will take place in the space. For instance, a living room, dining room, and kitchen may all be part of the same open area. By identifying these different zones, you can begin to think about how to define each area and create a functional layout. Rugs play a crucial role in this process by helping to delineate spaces and add a sense of structure to the open environment.
Mixing Patterns and Area Rugs
When selecting multiple rugs, it’s important to create a sense of harmony while maintaining visual interest. To achieve this, consider pairing bold patterns with more subdued designs. For example, if you have a rug featuring a striking geometric pattern, it’s best to complement it with a plain rug or one with a subtle, textured design. This prevents the patterns from competing for attention and allows each piece to stand out in its own way.
Avoiding clashing patterns is key. Combining two rugs with very busy designs, such as a floral rug and a bold geometric piece, can make the space feel crowded and disjointed. Instead, choose one focal rug with a strong pattern, and pair it with a more understated option.
Don’t be afraid to mix traditional and contemporary styles either. A classic, patterned rug can sit comfortably next to a modern, minimalistic design, as long as there is a shared colour palette or complementary tones between them. This blend of old and new can add a unique character to your space and showcase your personal style while maintaining a cohesive look.
Mixing Colours
Colour is a powerful tool in interior design and, when used thoughtfully, coordinating rugs can tie together multiple rugs in an open-plan space to create a cohesive and inviting environment. The key is to choose a harmonious colour palette that flows seamlessly throughout the room, and avoid jarring contrasts that can disrupt the visual balance. One effective strategy is to pick a dominant colour from an existing rug or a piece of furniture and echo it in the additional rugs. For example, if you have a rug with blue accents, consider choosing another rug that features the same shade of blue. This creates a sense of unity that allows the different elements of the space to complement each other.
When deciding on a colour palette, it’s helpful to think in terms of warm or cool tones. Warm colours like reds, oranges, and yellows can make a space feel cosy and inviting, while cool colours such as blues, greens, and greys create a calm and serene atmosphere. Sticking to either a warm or cool palette ensures that the rugs work well together and contribute to the overall mood of the room.
Sari Silk Rugs Mixing Textures
Textures play a subtle yet impactful role in defining an open-plan space, and experimenting with different rug styles can further enhance this effect. By layering different textures, you can add depth and interest without overwhelming the room. The key to success lies in choosing textures that complement each other, rather than those that clash.
When mixing textures, it’s essential to maintain a sense of harmony. Avoid combining rugs that are too dissimilar in feel, such as a coarse jute rug with a soft, luxurious viscose rug. Instead, aim for textures that subtly contrast yet still work together. A flatweave rug, for instance, can complement a low-pile wool rug, and offer a layered look that feels intentional and cohesive.
Think about the atmosphere you want to create in your open-plan area. If you’re aiming for a cosy, inviting feel, consider mixing a plush, soft texture like wool with a slightly rougher texture such as sisal. This combination not only looks visually appealing but also adds a tactile dimension to the room, making it feel more comfortable and lived-in.
Ultimately, mixing textures is about balance and subtle contrast. By carefully choosing rugs with complementary textures, you can enhance the look and feel of your open-plan space, adding depth and dimension without sacrificing unity.
Defining Spaces with Rugs
One of the most effective ways to define different spaces within an open floor plan is to use area rugs. By strategically placing a rug in a specific area, you can create a sense of boundaries and separation. For instance, a rug can be used to delineate a dining area or a living space to make each zone feel distinct yet connected.
When choosing a rug to define a space, consider the size and shape of the area. A large-scale pattern can create a sense of grandeur, while a smaller-scale pattern can foster a cosier atmosphere. Additionally, think about the colour and texture of the rug, as these elements can significantly impact the overall feel of the space. For example, a large area rug with a bold design can anchor a living space, while a more understated rug can subtly define a dining area.
Rug Placement and Sizing
The placement and sizing of coordinating area rugs in an open-plan space are just as important as the choice of patterns, colours, and textures. Properly positioned rugs can help to define distinct areas, such as the living room and dining room, while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout the space.
Choosing the right size is crucial. In larger open-plan areas, opting for bigger rugs helps to define different zones. For instance, a large area rug can anchor the seating area in the living room, while a similarly sized rug in the dining area creates a sense of separation and structure.
When placing multiple rugs, it’s important to place enough space between them. Overlapping or placing rugs too close together can make the area feel cramped and cluttered. Instead, aim for a visible gap between each rug and allow the floor beneath to act as a frame that separates and highlights each rug individually. This approach helps to maintain an airy, spacious feel, even with multiple rugs in the same room.
Lakota Day WoolableRug Pairings We Love
Choosing the right pairings for multiple rugs in an open-plan space can elevate your interior design, and create a cohesive look that’s both stylish and functional. Here are some of our favourite rug combinations that bring together different styles, textures, and patterns in a way that enhances any room.
Jute Rugs and Wool Rugs from the Nordic Collection
This pairing is ideal for those looking to introduce natural textures into their space. The rustic, earthy feel of a jute rug, such as our Hazel rug, pairs beautifully with the soft, cosy texture of a wool rug like the Nordic Touch OAC-2. The combination of these two materials creates a balanced and welcoming atmosphere. The contrast between the tactile jute and the plush wool adds subtle visual interest, making this duo perfect for open-plan spaces where you want to define different areas without overwhelming the design.
Persian and Patterned Rugs
Persian rugs are a timeless choice that can bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. When pairing multiple Persian rugs, it's best to choose those with similar styles, such as two floral designs or two tribal patterns. Although Persian rugs often feature similar colour palettes, their unique designs ensure that no two are exactly alike, allowing you to create a cohesive look with a sense of individuality.
Vintage Style Rugs and Sisal Rugs
If you’re looking to mix modern and traditional elements, pairing vintage-style rugs with sisal rugs is a great option. Our Lore Vintage Inspired rugs, with their warm, autumnal tones, blend beautifully with the natural, woven texture of sisal rugs. This combination works well in areas where you want to add texture and warmth without overwhelming the space with bold patterns or colours. The muted tones of the vintage rugs are complemented by the organic texture of the sisal, and together they create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Shop Now
Explore our collection at Rugs.ie and discover the perfect combinations to elevate your open-plan space. From patterned to textured, we have a wide range of rugs to help you create a cohesive and stylish look. Shop now to find the ideal pairings and transform your home with multiple rugs that complement and enhance each other.
