Never underestimate the power of a rug.

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Image credit: courtesy of Double

There are some things in the home that might seem inconsequential at first glance, but upon consideration, can be the glue that holds a room together. A rug is one such item. Often overlooked because it sits below the eyeline, a rug is one of those homewares that can create an instant impact in a room. Great for adding a shot of color, texture, or pattern to an otherwise bland space, choosing a rug isn’t a step to be taken lightly. Ask any interior designer, and they’ll rattle off a laundry list of common rug styling mistakes – clearly, it pays to get it right.

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Image credit: Photographed by Suzi Appel, interior design by Samantha Eisen and styling by Bea Lambos

That’s why we’ve turned to the expertise of Australian rug brand Double, for advice. Double is quickly building a reputation for its machine washable rugs, which come in a wide variety of shades, styles and textures, catering to both minimalists and maximalists at heart. Boasting a unique double-layer design, each rug has a top layer which can be removed and thrown in your washing machine. (It also means you can switch up your rugs easily, because the rug covers and bases are sold separately.) But beyond that, how do you choose the best rug?  Keep reading as we chat to Double for all their expert tips on rug trends, styling and size selection.

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Image credit: Photographed by Felix Forest, interior design by Handelsmann + Khaw and styled by Joseph Gardner

1. Go large, or go home

“Australian design is experiencing a renewed thirst for fun within the home.” “Minimalism is out, and eclectic is in,” says Double’s head of strategy and marketing, Abigail Agwunobi.

The trend for maximalism also extends to styling. Throw out the rule book and experiment. “Interior designers seem to be less afraid of combining design periods, styles, or colors – instead focusing on the unique pieces and small details that tie a space together.”

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Image credit: courtesy of Double

2. Texture is textbook

Minimalist at heart? You can still make an impact with texture on a neutral base, says Agwunobi. “Australian homes will always have space for soft, natural textures and neutral tones. Our customers are ever drawn to dreamy tonal color palettes of whites, creams, browns, and olives—these shades create a fresh, subtle base for curating a wide range of interiors.” She recommends anything from Double’s Highland or Vegan Shearling ranges.

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Image credit: courtesy of Double

3. Go for the dopamine hit.

“Rugs can definitely determine the energy of a space. Always think about the mood you’re trying to create when selecting a rug,” says Agwunobi. “Neutral, minimalist rugs in light colors can create brightness and serenity, highlighting the beauty of the existing environment. These styles provide you with a clean, fresh slate on which to curate your interiors.”

But don’t discount the so-called dopamine hit of a statement rug. “More adventurous styles and brighter colors can really express your personality, invoking creativity and inspiration every time you enter the room. Experimenting with rug styles is the easiest way to create a point of interest, especially in a space with minimalist interiors,” adds Agwunobi.

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Image credit: Photographed by Lillie Thompson and interior design by Brahman Perera

4. There’s only one real rule.

“We don’t really do rules,” confesses Agwunobi. “Our rugs are designed to encourage Australians to have fun at home and experience life in all its messy glory.” But she does have one rule when it comes to sizing. “When in doubt, we always size up. A rug can be used to illuminate a space, design a cozy arrangement, or define a larger living area. If your rug is going in the bedroom, dining room, or living room, always ensure the focal furniture sits within the borders of the rug.” While there’s no rule against extra-large rugs in small rooms, it does pay to give yourself a little bit of space. “We recommend leaving at least 30 cm between your rug and any surrounding walls—this maximizes visual airiness and creates the illusion of extra space,” she adds.

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Image credit: courtesy of Double

5. Mix and match

Don’t be afraid to combine design periods, styles, or colors, says Agwunobi. Some of Double’s creative partners are masters at it. Liana Shaw-Taylor, creative director and owner of Studio Tutti, is a fan of bold color. “I love a good color palette,” she says. “I like to mix textures and create multiple points of interest,” which she does by pairing her mid-century-style Human Brown Cotton Feel rug with the Persian-leaning Washed Blue Chenille rug.

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Image credit: courtesy of Double

6. A perfect pairing

Looking to include multiple rugs in one space? “Texture plays an essential part in the selection process when styling a variety of rugs in your home,” says Agwunobi. “It creates balance, ease, and consistency when moving throughout the space.” She suggests low-pile and durable rugs in chenille and jute for high-traffic areas like entryways, walkways, and outdoor areas. Indoors, try opting for more luxurious fabrics and textures—Double’s Cotton Feel, Highland, and Vegan Shearling are ideal for “bringing soft and plush coziness to the bedroom or living room.”

Source: www.vogue.com.au