When we worked on our dining room, one of the less straightforward decisions that I ultimately made was to add an area rug under the table. Although rugs and eating spaces aren't typically a practical union in my mind, I do think rugs help "anchor" a space.
Here's a look at our dining room without an area rug (PRE-makeover):
The rug that was debuted in the initial room makeover reveal was a last-minute replacement (due to a snafu with the original rug order). I had used two 5' x 8' rugs to "create" one larger 8' x 10' area rug. While the color and material (jute) was great, I thought the pattern competed too much with the bold wallpaper. So, I sourced a simpler natural fiber (sisal) rug, and upsized to a 9' x 12'. The larger size better accommodates the dining chairs when pulled out.
So why did I ultimately decide to add an area rug under the dining room table?
- It protects the hardwood floors from sunlight/fading. The area gets a lot of afternoon sun.
- It protects the hardwood floors from daily wear or scratches.
- It defines the area within our open-concept great room, and helps "ground" the space.
- It provides a welcomed layer of dimension and texture.
CAD Design Tip: If you are considering placing a rug in a dining area or high-traffic space, I would recommend durable material rugs such as jute, sisal, or seagrass, a rug with a busy pattern, or indoor/outdoor rugs.
While the benefits I listed for having an area rug are specific to our home, they can also be commonly applied across households. What do you think? Are you on "team rug" or do you prefer going rug-less in the dining room?!
Shared with: Inspire Me Tuesday
Wow, it's really amazing how adding a rug made this room feel finished! I love the green patterned one but the neutral sisal really lets your wallpaper pop, and still anchors the room. Great post on making a case for a rug, Carol!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lisa! I loved the other rug too, but I ultimately decided to go with a larger 9x12 anyway so I took the opportunity to do a neutral. I wanted more decorative versatility whenever I switch up the accents. :)
Deletei love the rug and dream of the day i can have one under our table! for now we have an almost 2 year old dog who sometimes can't hold it at night.... so i wait.
ReplyDeleteHi, mind sharing where you sourced the rug from? I love it, nice and natural will go with almost any change in style.
ReplyDeleteHi, love the rug. Do you mind sharing where you sourced in from? Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi Sharon. Thanks for visiting this post! It's a 9x12 Safavieh rug. I think I purchased it through Rugs USA.
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