A Guide to Styling Shaped Rugs in Your Space

Tired of the same old rectangles and squares?

We get it. While traditional rugs have their place, sometimes a project calls for something a little more playful and unexpected. That’s where shaped rugs come in. They’re a fantastic way to inject personality, define zones, and add an artistic touch to any room.

Let’s explore how you can use these unique pieces to elevate your designs, both on the floor and on the wall.

Before we dive into styling, let's talk about why a shaped rug is such a great choice for your projects.

• Breaks the Mould: Shaped rugs instantly disrupt the straight lines and hard angles of a room. This creates visual interest and a more dynamic, flowing feel.
• Defines Unique Spaces: Use a shaped rug to carve out a specific area, like a reading nook or a creative corner in a commercial space. Its unconventional outline naturally separates it from the rest of the room without needing walls.
• Adds an Artistic Element: Many shaped rugs are like functional pieces of art. Their bespoke forms and intricate designs can serve as a focal point, telling a story and reflecting a client's unique style.

Enhances Themes: Whether you’re working with a nature-inspired biophilic design or a whimsical, abstract concept, a shaped rug can perfectly complement and enhance the overall theme.

1. Let the Rug Guide the Layout

Instead of forcing a shaped rug into a pre-existing furniture arrangement, let its form inspire the layout. Arrange seating around the curves of the rug to create a cozy and conversational grouping. For example, a kidney-shaped rug works beautifully with a curved sofa, creating a soft, organic feel.

2. Room to play

Finding the right symmetry with a shaped rug and its surrounding furniture really is key. Asymmetry works really well, and the shaped nature of the rug gives the versatility of either being under furniture or simply filling an empty space. 

Think scale, do you want this rug to cover an entire area or do you want it to act as a smaller floor accessory to bring a hint of joy? Oh, and remember that doors will need space to open and close, a common rookie error.

3. Use It to Create Flow

In open-plan spaces or long hallways, a series of smaller shaped rugs or one long, meandering one can guide the eye and direct foot traffic.

Think of them as stylish stepping stones that lead from one area to another, creating a subtle but effective path through the space.

4. Don't Be Afraid of Asymmetry

The beauty of a shaped rug lies in its irregularity. Embrace asymmetry in your furniture placement. You don’t need to center everything perfectly. An off-center placement can feel more modern and relaxed, adding to the rug’s playful character.

Who says rugs belong only on the floor? A beautifully crafted shaped rug can double as a stunning piece of wall art. This is a brilliant solution for adding texture, color, and acoustic benefits to a room.

Why Hang a Rug on the Wall?

• Adds Texture and Warmth: A textile on the wall instantly softens a space, making it feel warmer and more inviting than a traditional painting or print.
• Improves Acoustics: In rooms with high ceilings or hard surfaces, a wall-hung rug can help absorb sound, reducing echo and creating a more comfortable environment. This is especially useful in commercial projects like offices or restaurants.
• Creates a Powerful Focal Point: A large, boldly designed shaped rug hung on a prominent wall becomes an undeniable centerpiece. It’s a great way to add high impact with a single design element.

Tips for Hanging a Shaped Rug

1. Choose the Right Wall: Select a wall that has enough space to let the rug breathe. A large, blank wall behind a sofa or in a minimalist entryway is a perfect canvas.
2. Consider the Weight: Ensure you have the proper hardware to support the rug's weight. For heavier, hand-knotted or tufted pieces, you may need a sturdy rod or a professional mounting system. Lighter, flat-woven designs might be manageable with more discreet solutions like Velcro strips or nails attached to a wooden batten.
3. Positioning is Key: Hang the rug at eye level, just as you would with a large piece of art. This ensures it's appreciated as an artistic feature rather than just a floor covering in an odd spot.

Whether on the floor or on the wall, a shaped rug is a versatile and exciting tool for any designer. It’s an opportunity to challenge conventions, introduce new forms, and craft spaces that are truly memorable and bespoke.