How To Layer Rugs Over Carpet

On a hard floor an untethered rug is more likely to slide or slip but when layering area rugs over carpet the rug is more likely to wrinkle or ripple.

How to layer rugs over carpet.

Sure the unexpected contrast of weaves and prints may have guests doing a double take but if done right layered rugs can pop in a playful way and more practically pull together a space. As a rule of thumb you can layer two or three rugs at a time but experts say that two is considered the sweet spot. Layering rugs whether on carpet or hardwood floors is a smart and simple way to give a room texture and take on another trend. But today we re seeing multiple rugs laid in a room that are more related to each other.

The thought of layering up here may seem counter intuitive but the design reward is well worth it. When laying the rug over carpet however the concern is more about the rug wrinkling or rippling which presents a big tripping hazard wrinkling will occur because as one area of the rug is stepped on it will shift assuming it is not properly. The right rug can actually look flawless when placed atop carpeted floors. In those cases laying a thick luxurious shag rug adds a wonderful sense of softness and elegance to the space.

You want the rug to bring life to the floor like in laura s adorable melbourne home shown above where she layered a graphic flat weave over beige carpet and a basic tiled hearth. When laying an area rug over a hard surface such as hardwood flooring the biggest concern about the rug s movement is that it will slide around. It s all about color coordinating says fire. A neutral color with a cut wool pile and no heathering or interesting variation.

Rugs should always be anchored whether used on a hardwood floor or on top of carpet. Layering rugs gives you license to have a little fun but don t go rug wild. Area rugs generally work best over short pile or looped carpet. In most cases wall to wall carpeting is very basic.

Choose something with a different texture and or fiber like jute sisal silk.