How to Style a Striped Rug in Any Room: Expert Tips & Tricks

Striped rugs are an excellent way to add a touch of pattern and personality to any room. Whether you're looking to create a focal point or subtly enhance the decor, a striped rug can effortlessly elevate the overall aesthetic of your space. At Rug & Home, we offer an extensive selection of striped rugs, each designed to suit a variety of styles, from contemporary to classic. Here are some expert tips and tricks to help you style a striped rug in any room.

1. Consider the Room’s Function and Style

Before choosing a striped rug, think about the function and overall style of the room. A living room, for instance, might benefit from a large, bold striped rug that draws attention and creates an inviting atmosphere. On the other hand, in a bedroom or office, you may want a more subtle and calming pattern to complement the room’s decor.

The stripes on the rug can either be bold and bright or soft and muted. If your space already features a lot of color, opt for a neutral or toned-down striped rug. For a room that lacks vibrancy, a rug with contrasting stripes in colors such as navy and white or charcoal and cream can add visual interest and balance the overall look.

2. Choose the Right Size

When incorporating a striped rug into your room, selecting the right size is crucial. A rug that is too small can make the space feel disjointed, while one that is too large can overwhelm the room. The size of your rug should reflect the layout of the furniture in the room.

For living rooms, a large striped rug that fits under the front legs of your furniture is often the best option. In bedrooms, a rug placed under the bed or at the foot of the bed can add comfort and style. In smaller rooms, a more compact rug can still make a statement without taking up too much space. Rug & Home offers a variety of sizes, from small accent rugs to large area rugs, so you can find the perfect fit.

3. Mix and Match Stripes with Other Patterns

Stripes can work beautifully when paired with other patterns, such as floral, geometric, or solid textures. However, it's important to keep balance in mind. If your rug features bold stripes, consider adding softer patterns in the rest of the room. A striped rug with wide, colorful stripes can be balanced with solid throw pillows or a plain armchair. Conversely, if your rug has thin stripes, you may want to introduce a more complex pattern elsewhere to create visual interest.

For instance, a striped rug in neutral tones can easily be complemented with a floral patterned curtain or a polka dot throw blanket. The key is to ensure that the patterns do not clash but instead create a harmonious look. If you’re uncertain about pairing patterns, opting for different textures in similar colors can achieve a similar effect while maintaining simplicity.

4. Use Stripes to Define Spaces

Striped rugs are perfect for defining distinct areas in a room, particularly in larger open-plan spaces. By using stripes strategically, you can create zones within a room, which can be especially useful in apartments or homes with multi-functional spaces. For example, in a combined living and dining room, a striped rug can act as a visual boundary, helping to separate the two areas without the need for physical walls.

When placing your rug, keep in mind that horizontal stripes tend to make a space feel wider, while vertical stripes can add a sense of height. This can help you play with the proportions of the room and make it feel either more open or more cozy depending on your desired effect.

5. Layer Striped Rugs for Depth

Layering rugs is a great way to add depth and texture to a room. If you’re not quite ready to commit to a single striped rug or want to add an extra touch of flair, consider layering your striped rug over a solid-colored or textured rug. This approach can create an interesting contrast and make the stripes pop even more. It also allows you to experiment with different textures and colors without overwhelming the space.

For example, a simple striped rug can be layered over a jute rug for a natural, earthy feel. Alternatively, pairing a striped rug with a shag rug creates a plush, cozy atmosphere in the living room or bedroom. Layering also works well when you want to add warmth and comfort underfoot without sacrificing style.

6. Choose Colors That Complement Your Existing Decor

The colors in your striped rug should complement the existing color palette of your room. When choosing a striped rug, take inspiration from the dominant hues in your space. If your walls are neutral, a rug with bold stripes in a variety of colors can add a pop of vibrancy. On the other hand, if the room already has a strong color presence, you might want a striped rug in a more muted tone to balance the visual impact.

For example, a striped rug with navy and cream stripes can work well in a room with white walls and dark wood furniture. Meanwhile, a multi-colored striped rug can brighten up a space with dark or neutral tones. Whatever colors you choose, be sure to keep the room’s mood in mind, as the right color combination can transform the feel of the space.

7. Use Stripes to Create Movement

Stripes have the ability to create a sense of movement and flow in a room. The direction and width of the stripes can influence the visual rhythm. For example, horizontal stripes can add width and make a narrow room feel more spacious. Vertical stripes, on the other hand, can make a low ceiling appear higher. Alternating thick and thin stripes can also create a dynamic, energetic feel.

If you're looking to draw attention to a specific area of the room, place the rug in a way that the stripes guide the eye toward that spot. For instance, a striped rug placed in front of a focal point like a fireplace or a statement chair can create a natural flow that enhances the room’s layout.

8. Keep Maintenance in Mind

Rugs, particularly striped rugs, can require a bit more maintenance than solid-color rugs due to the multiple colors and patterns. When choosing a striped rug, consider how much foot traffic the area will receive. Rugs made from durable materials like wool, jute, or synthetic fibers can be more resistant to stains and wear. Regular cleaning is also important to keep the stripes looking fresh.

At Rug & Home, we offer rugs that are easy to clean and maintain, so you don’t have to worry about your rug losing its charm over time. Be sure to check the care instructions to keep your striped rug looking its best for years to come.

9. Play with Rug Placement

The placement of your striped rug can make a significant impact on the overall feel of the room. If you're working with a large space, try placing the rug at the center of the room to create balance. In smaller rooms, you might choose to place the rug off-center for a more asymmetrical and dynamic look.

Additionally, in smaller spaces, a striped rug can visually elongate or widen the room depending on the stripe direction. Placing a rug in the hallway or entryway can instantly make a statement and enhance the space’s style without overwhelming it.

Conclusion

Styling a striped rug is all about balancing patterns, colors, and placement to enhance the overall decor of your room. Whether you opt for a bold statement piece or a more subtle, muted design, a striped rug can be the perfect addition to any space. At Rug & Home, we offer a variety of striped rugs that can complement any design style, from contemporary to traditional. Follow these expert tips and tricks to style your striped rug and create a space that is both functional and visually appealing.