top of page

How to Coordinate Rugs Like a Pro—No Clashing, Just Pure Style!

Rugs are more than just floor coverings—they're design elements that tie a space together, define zones, and add texture, warmth, and personality. But figuring out how to coordinate rugs throughout your home can be tricky. How do you mix patterns without clashing? Should you match colors or create contrast? And what about layering—what works and what doesn’t?


If you’ve ever struggled with these questions, you’re not alone. The key to achieving a cohesive and stylish look is understanding how to balance colors, patterns, textures, and placement. Below, we break down expert-approved strategies to help you coordinate rugs like a pro and elevate your home’s aesthetic effortlessly.


1. How to Coordinate Rugs: Start with a Unifying Color Palette



Before selecting multiple rugs, establish a consistent color scheme that runs through your home. Whether you prefer earthy neutrals, deep jewel tones, or soft pastels, sticking to a coordinated palette ensures that your rugs feel connected rather than chaotic.

A great trick is to pick a dominant color that appears in each rug, even if the designs are completely different. For example, a navy geometric rug in the living room can pair beautifully with a Persian-style rug in the dining area if they share a common navy hue. This creates flow and harmony between spaces.


2. How to Coordinate Rugs: Mix Patterns Strategically



Pattern mixing can make your home feel curated and sophisticated, but it requires balance. If one rug has a bold, large-scale pattern, opt for a more subtle or smaller-scale design for the other.

For instance, pairing a floral or vintage-style rug with a striped or geometric one can work well when they share at least one common color. Too many competing patterns can feel overwhelming, so let one rug take the spotlight while the other plays a supporting role.


3. How to Coordinate Rugs: Layering Done Right



Layering rugs adds depth and dimension, but the key is using different textures and sizes. A large natural fiber rug, like jute or sisal, can act as a neutral base, while a smaller, patterned rug layered on top adds character.

For a cozy, eclectic feel, try layering a colorful kilim over a plush, solid-colored rug. This trick is especially useful in open-concept spaces, as it helps define distinct areas without disrupting the overall design flow.


4. How to Coordinate Rugs: Use Shape and Size to Define Spaces



Rugs aren’t just about aesthetics—they also serve as spatial anchors. In open floor plans, use rugs to delineate different areas, like separating the living room from the dining space.

Varying rug sizes can create a sense of proportion and hierarchy. A larger rug under the dining table can ground the space, while a slightly smaller one in the adjacent seating area ensures balance without feeling repetitive.


5. How to Coordinate Rugs: Contrast Textures for a Luxe Look



Texture is just as important as color and pattern when coordinating rugs. Combining different materials can make your space feel layered and rich.

For example, a soft wool rug can beautifully contrast against a woven jute or shaggy Moroccan-style rug. This variation creates an interesting interplay of textures that feels intentional and high-end.


6. How to Coordinate Rugs: Play with Borders and Edges



One of the most overlooked design elements in rugs is the border. A rug with a bold border can create definition in a space, while an all-over pattern feels more fluid.

If one rug has a clean, structured border, pair it with a softer, organic pattern for contrast. This keeps things visually dynamic while still looking cohesive.


7. How to Coordinate Rugs: Use Different Rug Styles for an Eclectic Feel



Gone are the days of matching everything perfectly. Mixing different rug styles—like a vintage Persian rug with a contemporary abstract design—can add personality and interest.

The trick is to find a unifying element, whether it’s color, shape, or texture. A distressed traditional rug can blend seamlessly with a modern striped design if they share similar tones.


8. How to Coordinate Rugs: Think About Functionality



Beyond aesthetics, consider how your rugs will be used. High-traffic areas like entryways and hallways benefit from durable, low-pile rugs, while plush, cozy rugs work best in living rooms and bedrooms.

In practical terms, this means you can mix materials throughout your home: a flatweave rug in the kitchen, a wool rug in the living room, and a washable runner in the hallway. This ensures that each rug is both stylish and functional.


9. How to Coordinate Rugs: Experiment with Round and Irregular Shapes




Not all rugs need to be rectangular. Adding a round or irregularly shaped rug can break up monotony and introduce a fresh dynamic.

Try placing a round rug under a circular dining table or in a small seating nook to create a cozy, defined area. Similarly, a cowhide or abstract-shaped rug can add an unexpected design element that makes the space feel curated.


10. How to Coordinate Rugs: Keep It Cohesive Yet Unique



While coordination is key, don’t be afraid to let each rug have its own personality. A home that looks too “matchy” can feel staged rather than lived-in.

The goal is to strike a balance—each rug should feel like it belongs in the same home but doesn’t have to be an exact replica of the others. Mixing patterns, colors, and textures thoughtfully will give your home a beautifully layered, designer feel.


FAQ: How to Coordinate Rugs


Q: Should all rugs in a home match?

No! While rugs should complement each other, they don’t need to match exactly. Cohesion comes from a shared color palette, texture, or design element.


Q: Can you mix different rug styles?

Absolutely. Combining modern, vintage, and bohemian rugs can create a well-curated, personalized look. Just make sure there’s a unifying element to tie them together.


Q: How do you coordinate rugs in an open floor plan?

Use rugs to define spaces, vary the sizes, and stick to a cohesive color scheme. Layering and mixing textures also help create visual interest without clashing.


Q: What’s the best way to layer rugs?

Start with a large, neutral base rug and layer a smaller, patterned rug on top. This adds depth and allows you to introduce color and pattern in a balanced way.


Want a professionally curated look without the guesswork? Our interior design experts at BY Design And Viz can help you coordinate rugs, furniture, and décor to create a stunning, cohesive home. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!



4 views
pp upscale.jpeg

Hey friend, I'm Beril! An interior designer and architect with a passion for turning houses into homes. Join me for practical tips and endless inspiration to make your home truly yours!

join the club

Subscribe to our email newsletter and we'll send you a FREE Home Renovation Planner.

Breakfast at Home

BUILD THE HOME YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED

Start your project today.

Choose a design package that meets your needs from our selection. Work with our designers one on one to achieve your dreams.

bottom of page