Coastal Rug Selection – A Guide

Coastal rug selection is an important aspect of decorating your beach home. While hard surface flooring is ideal for beach houses because it handles humidity, sand and the indoor/outdoor lifestyle coastal living is known for, area rugs enhance your coastal decor, softening your step and warming floors during the cooler months. From rugs made from natural fibers to hand-tufted rugs featuring bright, vibrant colors and patterns, the following guidelines can help you select the right rugs that add character to your interior design.

Three Steps To Choose the Right Coastal Rugs

Step #1: Make a list and check it twice

First, list all the areas that will benefit the most from the addition of rugs. Typically, we recommend rugs for:

• Anchoring dining room and/or living room furniture.
• Protecting high-traffic areas, such as hallways, stairways and entryways.
• Padding the areas you use to stand for longer periods of time – in front of the sink, kitchen island, food prep areas, etc.
• Alongside beds so you have a soft, warm landing when you get out of bed each morning.

Measure these areas carefully and “practice” using a folded sheet so your rugs are appropriately sized.

Step #2: Believe in the weave

Different rug weaves and materials can fit spaces and needs. Here’s a little about the main construction types, their durability, and defining characteristics.

• Hand-knotted rugs have the longest lasting construction. Good quality hand knotted rugs can last up to 25 years – ones with great quality can last more than a 100! Individual knots are visible on the back of hand-knotted rugs. Consider the Icelandia White Hand Knotted Rug. Our designers recommend hand knotted rugs in living rooms and libraries.
• Hand-tufted rugs typically last 3-6 years for standard and 5-10 years for premium rugs. These rugs have a thicker pile height, so they have a more cushiony feel. The Temple Ink Micro Hooked Rug or the Paint Chip Micro Hooked Rug are customer faves. Soft, padded hand-tufted rugs are perfect for cozy family rooms and bedrooms.
• Natural fiber rugs last anywhere from 2-6 years. These beautiful rugs are constructed with tightly woven fibers such as bamboo, cotton, jute, linen, seagrass and sisal to create a casual, coastal and relaxed look and feel. The Jute Woven Natural Rug or the Tala Gold Woven Jute Rug are very popular! We love to use these sustainable rugs in living rooms and libraries.
• Flat weave rugs last for 3-10 years. They are woven on a loom and constructed from wool, cotton or synthetic materials. Check out the Coastal Blue Indoor/Outdoor Rug or the Melange Stripe Indoor/Outdoor Rug. These are ideal for high-traffic ares like kitchens, playrooms, and entryways.

Step #3: Color Matters

Floor covering accounts for almost 30% of a room’s color which is why rug selection is an important part of the room’s decor. If your area rug is going to be the dominant element in your room, like the Hotline Multi Woven Rug, choose a patterned rug with distinctive color combinations. Then use shades from the rug to select paints and accessories, and carry those color themes into adjacent rooms. If your rug is going to play a secondary role, keep the color neutral to complement other furnishings in the room. Check out the City Gray Hand Tufted Rug – it’s a neutral favorite!

In Summary

Rugs are like art for the floor, so select rugs that you’ll love to look at today, tomorrow and for years to come. You get what you pay for, so spend as much as your budget allows when buying coastal rugs for your home. You’ll be repaid in terms of aesthetics, durability and longevity. Make sure to read our Ultimate Guide on How To Choose The Right Rug For Your Home and continue browsing Cottage & Bungalow to find rugs and other accessories that make your coastal cottage a home you’ll love for eternity!