Oushak Rugs

How to Decorate With an Antique Rug

Antique stores and rug retailers have a wide variety of beautiful rugs to choose from. Some homeowners know exactly what kind of antique rug they want. Others have the broad sense that they want an antique rug, but aren’t quite sure what to look for. Today’s blog is dedicated to homeowners in the latter group. We’re going to review some of our favorite tips for buying and decorating with antique rugs

Tip 1: Decide how prominent you want your rug to be.

Many interior designers recommend that you know what purpose you want your rug to serve before making a purchase. Some homeowners choose their wall color and furniture before deciding on how to decorate. Others choose their antique rug first, then base every other choice on the rug’s color and design.

The first method works for people who want a neutral, understated piece to accentuate the rest of the room, while the second is best for those who fall in love with a rug and want to make everything else revolve around it.

Tip 2: Make a plan.

Some homeowners know exactly how they want each room to look, and what their specific preferences are. Others have no idea what aesthetic they like best and have no clue what decor will best showcase an antique rug. To help with this problem, we have two design suggestions for you to try.

Historic and Timeless

Antique rugs often look more worn and asymmetrical than their modern, machine-made counterparts, which lends itself well to historical-looking decor. Rich dark colors, vintage or antique furniture, and ornate brass fixtures accentuate the legacy and timelessness of an antique rug.

Modern and Simple

Despite their age, antique rugs can also blend well with modern, minimalistic rooms. In a room full of sleek, simple decor in neutral colors, an antique rug with geometric patterns makes an excellent statement piece. To make your rug even more of a focal point, choose monochromatic decor to go with a bold and brightly colored rug.

Tip 3: Verify that the rug you want is authentic.

In one of our recent blogs, we discussed what makes a rug antique versus vintage or distressed. To summarize, a rug only qualifies as antique if it was crafted over 100 years ago and was designed, dyed, and knotted by hand. Hand-crafted rugs that are between 20-100 years old are beautiful, and certainly also make a statement, but these are considered vintage and not antique. A trained rug seller will know how to identify authentic antiques, so be sure to work closely with one as you choose the rug you want.

Tip 4: Experiment with unique places to put your rug.

Once you’ve bought your new rug, think of unique ways to use it in your home. It doesn’t have to go in so-called “normal” places like the living or dining-room. It doesn’t even have to go on the floor! Here are suggestions for you to try:

Hang it on the wall.

Like we said before, you don’t have to put your new rug on the floor if you don’t want to. Sometimes, the best way to showcase its timeless design and craftsmanship is to hang it on the wall like a tapestry. When used this way, an antique rug can complement the other wall hangings, become a conversation piece for your guests, and showcase your appreciation for history.

Think beyond the living and dining rooms.

Few people would think to put an antique rug in a high-traffic area such as a kitchen or bathroom. However, an antique rug can breathe new life into these spaces. 

Consider this: a hand-knotted wool rug is sturdy, stain-resistant, and able to wick away moisture if you spill something on it. Each of these characteristics is ideal for busy, messy rooms. So when you need to update those spaces, try an antique rug! 

Rug Source has the antique rugs you’re looking for

The team at Rug Source has a large inventory of authentic, high-quality antique rugs. Each of our employees is more than happy to help you find the rug you’ve been searching for. To find yours, visit our showroom in Charlotte or call 980-422-4080!