The Designer's Guide to Rugs

In our last few installments, we explored lighting—the foundational layer that sets the mood for a home. But once the atmosphere is established, we need to turn our attention to the "foundation" of the room—the rugs.

This layer can be the soul of a room. It’s the bridge between an aesthetic house and a functional home. Whether you’re trying to anchor a large seating area or add a soft landing for bare feet in the morning; getting the rugs right is what makes a space feel polished and curated.

Here is how to choose the right foundation for the job:

The Modern Edit

I go for these rug styles when I want a clean, architectural feel. Modern rugs often use subtle patterns or solid blocks of color to provide a polished finish that doesn't compete with your furniture.

The Room Essentials Organic Shapes Area Rug is the perfect way to achieve attainable sophistication on a budget. The abstract tufted fabric offers a soft comfort underfoot, while its fade and stain resistant construction ensures a polished look that lasts in high-traffic areas.

To add a layer of visual depth, the Ricki Mottled Abstract Rug is a thoughtful pick. Its distressed, mottled beige pattern offers a sleek profile that fits seamlessly under furniture.

For a piece that brings significant high-end character to a room, the Allen Home Greer Hand-Tufted Wool Blend Rug is a stunning choice. The bold geometric pattern is softened by a muted palette, and the plush, hand-tufted wool provides a luxurious, cushioned feel that makes a space feel complete.

The Vintage Edit

I use these rugs when a room needs an injection of history. These pieces provide high-end character, turning a standard room into a curated experience that feels like it has been put together over time.

The Chris Loves Julia x Loloi Francis Rug is a stunning example of attainable sophistication. Hand-hooked and made of 100% wool, with a grid and diamond pattern that is inspired by classic tile-work. 

For a soft, feminine touch, the Rifle Paper Co. x Loloi Eden Rug features elegant floral motifs and a classic color palette. It uses a unique CloudPile™ construction, which offers the plush feel of a high-end pile with the durability of a printed rug; making it an intentional choice for bedrooms or cozy nooks.

The Bungalow Rose Zorina Rug brings modern geometry to life with repeating motifs inspired by the art of tiling. This power-loomed piece offers a sleek profile that is easy to care for and durable enough to stand up to high-traffic areas while maintaining a polished look.

The Texture Edit

I choose these for bedrooms, nurseries, or "less-shoe" zones where you need a pool of comfort right at hand—or foot—level.

The Quince Sullivan Rug is a masterclass in attainable sophistication. Hand-loomed from a blend of jute and wool, it offers a sturdy, chunky weave that feels both organic and polished. It’s a high-value way to add natural dimension to any space.

For those spaces where you want a soft, "sink-your-toes-in" feeling, the AllModern Walker Checkered Shag Rug is a thoughtful pick. The timeless checkered pattern is updated with a sage and cream pile, providing a feel that makes any corner instantly more inviting.

The Boutique Rugs Chaia Dotted Plush Rug is a fun, architectural piece. Its irregular dotted pattern gives it a cute yet sophisticated look, while the high-pile construction offers the cushioned comfort essential for a bedroom.

Creating a home that feels polished begins with the layers you rarely touch but always feel. When you invest in the right "foundation," you are shifting away from a temporary setup toward an intentional environment. It’s the difference between a room that looks finished and a space that feels bespoke.

Getting this right often comes down to the technical details—like ensuring your rug is large enough that at least the front legs of your furniture rest on top to avoid that common "floating" look. In my experience, bigger is usually better when it comes to rugs. By leading with both value and vision, you’re not just decorating; you’re building a sanctuary that is uniquely yours.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ahuva Schmerhold is an Interior Designer and graduate of the New York Institute of Art and Design. Ahuva focuses on blending practical organized solutions with contemporary design, to ensure homes are both beautiful and functional. She currently serves clients in person in the Tri-State area and nationwide through virtual consultations. Ahuva can be reached at interiorsbyahuva@gmail.com.