If you look at magazines or social media and wonder why your home doesn’t look as nice as theirs, it could be you’re missing an area rug. 

Here are some basic guidelines when shopping for area rugs.

First, measure your room. A common mistake people make is buying an area rug that is too small.

Second, decide what your focal point is in your room.  It could be a sofa or a piece of art.  A rug is there to compliment the room – a soft pallet that compliments your furniture or a bold statement with a print or vibrant color.

Third, consider material and construction.  Cotton rugs may not last as long as wool. Jute and sisal rugs look great in magazines, but in high traffic areas, they will not wear well. Plus, they may not offer the same comfort as cotton or wool.

For the area rug guide on homeworld.com, click here.