Timeless and beautiful, Persian rugs are a popular choice in homes around the world. They add warmth, colour and texture to space, no matter the colour, size or shape.
In saying that, Persian rugs can be difficult to style right. With such bold colours and intricate patterns, Persian rugs can often clash with other furniture and decor. Rugs should bring a finished, cohesive look to the home, but if they’re not styled properly, they can bring a cluttered feel. In this article, we’ll explore the best way to style Persian rugs to create a cosy, warm and balanced space.
Choosing Your Persian Rug
Since they’re available in so many shapes, sizes, colours and patterns, it can be tricky to pick the right Persian rug for your home. There are a few key things to consider when choosing a Persian rug.
Consider the Function
When choosing your Persian rug, it’s important you consider the function of the space and how your rug will be used. For instance, if you’re placing your Persian rug in your bedroom, you’ll want one that is soft to add warmth and cosiness to your space. For the dining room, you’ll need a Persian rug that is easy to clean and maintain and won’t show stains from food spills.
Consider the Pattern and Colour
Choose your rug according to your home’s decor and colour palette. If you already have a space full of bright and bold colours and intricate patterns, go for a more subtle rug. If your room is more neutral, add a pop of colour and excitement with a bright, warm and bold Persian rug.
Choose the Right Shape and Size
Persian rugs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to buy one that suits your space. If you have a smaller room, choose a small Persian rug and place it in the centre of the room to create a cosy and inviting space. Small round rugs tend to suit smaller spaces.
Styling Persian Rugs
Keep Your Space Neutral
No matter your home’s interior style, there are a few key things to consider when styling your Persian rug. Add a pop of colour with a bright and bold Persian rug and let it stand out by using neutral tones in the rest of the room. This prevents the space from looking messy and cluttered and allows the rug to be the focal point.
Layers, Layers, Layers
Create a sense of depth and visual interest by adding layers! There are plenty of ways you can add dimension to your room with Persian rugs. For instance, you can lay a small Persian rug over a large neutral-toned rug for added texture, or use a Persian rug as a wall hanging.
Mix and Match
Persian rugs can look beautiful paired with other patterns. Avoid clashes by choosing patterns with similar colour palettes, or choose one pattern to be the dominant one in the room, such as a floral or geometric print.
You can also mix and match rug sizes to create a dynamic space, like choosing a large Persian rug for your living room and a smaller one for your dining room, bedroom or entryway. This adds both variety and a sense of cohesion throughout your home.
Make it the Centrepiece
Let your Persian rug take the centre stage! If your space is larger, allow your Persian rug to act as the room’s centrepiece. Place your Persian rug in the centre and arrange your furniture around it. By doing this, you can create a cosy and welcoming space that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining.
Tip: Use an outdoor Persian rug to dress up your outdoor space! To keep in the best condition, make sure you have adequate shelter.
Under the Dining Table
Make your dining space cosier and more inviting by placing a Persian rug under your dining table. It’ll create more visual interest in the room and bring a warm, welcoming feel to the space you dine in and entertain.
A Welcoming Entryway
Create a warm and inviting entryway with a Persian hall runner rug. Not only will you and your guests feel comfortable, cosy and at home, but hall runners create a sense of direction and keep your hallway floors from getting scratched and damaged.
Styling Persian Rugs According to Interior Style
For a cohesive look, style your Persian rug according to your home’s interior. Persian rugs don’t belong to any one interior style. Whether your home’s interior is more rustic, contemporary, traditional, bohemian, minimalist or Scandinavian, Persian rugs can complement all kinds of homes. You can choose a rug according to your home’s furniture and decor–for instance, if your room is full of light blue tones, go for a navy blue Persian rug for a sense of depth. On a similar note, if your space features clean lines and geometric shapes and patterns.
Traditional
Known for their classic and timeless appeal, traditional style homes emphasise rich and warm colours, symmetrical designs and ornate details. Persian rugs complement this style perfectly. Choose a Persian rug that features a bold and intricate pattern, like a floral or medallion design, in a rich, warm colour like a red Persian rug. Style with traditional wooden furniture with classic lines and fabrics like velvet or leather. Complete the look with ornate accessories. Place your rug in the living or lounge room to keep it classic.
Contemporary
Persian rugs may be associated with traditional-style homes, but they add a rich vibrancy to contemporary spaces. Contemporary interior style is known for clean lines, minimalist design and a neutral colour palette. Persian rugs add warmth, texture and sophistication to contemporary homes.
Choose a Persian rug with a geometric pattern or abstract design in any colour that complements your colour palette. Pair with simple and minimalist furniture and add metallic accents like a chrome lamp, brass side table or gold pendant lights for a touch of modern glamour.
Bohemian
Known for its eclectic mix of colours, patterns and textures, bohemian-style homes and Persian rugs are a match made in heaven. Choose a Persian rug with rich, bold and vibrant colours. Pair with a mix of colours and textures, like a rattan armchair or velvet sofa and accessories such as a rattan basket, plants and floor cushions.
Rustic
Rustic-style homes are known for their cosy, warm feel with natural and organic elements like wood, stone and leather. Persian rugs add a touch of elegance and texture to rustic homes. Go for either a classic Persian rug or one that is more faded and pair it with wooden furniture and kitschy accessories.
