We’ve all seen it in movies: a glamorous main character waltzing down a staircase in a stunning gown, perfectly complemented by the lush carpet runner that catches their steps. Bring this look to your own home with a beautiful runner rug!
Choose a low-pile rug for durability and easy vacuuming, or opt for a high-pile rug that feels soft underfoot. Let your lifestyle and preferences guide you in selecting the perfect runner for each room of your home.
Living Rooms and Kitchens
One of the most versatile living room ideas, runner rugs can be used in many different ways to transform open-plan spaces. From forming practical walkways and standing areas to creating cozy seating nooks in open-plan living rooms, they are a great option for defining individual sections of a space and highlighting decor elements.
Whether you opt for a bold geometric pattern or an elegant Oriental style, you can easily find the right rug to fit your unique design aesthetic. Similarly, runners come in a wide array of colors, from striking black and white to appetizing ruddy reds.
If you want to keep your runner rug casual, choose one made from natural fibers like wool, cotton, jute or sisal. These materials are naturally easy to clean and can handle spills and stains with ease. For a more transitional runner rug, opt for one that has a traditional floral motif that blends contemporary tones and fabrics. Adding a touch of elegance to your home has never been easier with these simple yet stylish floor coverings.
Bedrooms
Whether you’re designing your master bedroom or a guest room, a runner rug can make the space cozy to the max. It’s like the finishing touch that brings together all of your bedroom decorating ideas. Plus, it’s an ideal alternative to a regular area rug that often ends up being hidden under furniture.
Because of their narrower width, runner rugs work perfectly in tight spaces such as bedrooms. Place one on either side of your bed to add depth and excellence in a space that could otherwise feel too small for a full size rug. A runner is also a great way to define a sleeping space in an open floor plan. Just be sure to choose a rug that has enough room to accommodate your bed and other furniture.
Entryways
When most people think of runner rugs, they envision hallways. However, entryways are another area where a runner rug can make a big difference. They can warm up a stark cold entranceway and add a splash of color to the room.
Consider a jute or sisal runner for an organic style in an entryway. These types of rugs are durable and easy to clean, which makes them perfect for high-traffic areas. They can also withstand snow, rain and sun exposure.
Place a small bench near the entryway to encourage people to take off their shoes. This can help reduce the amount of dirt, mud and debris tracked into your living spaces. It can also improve safety, as bare feet can grip the floor better than slippery shoe soles. If a barefoot bench isn’t practical, a door mat made of coir is a simple and effective solution. It’s also relatively inexpensive.
Bathrooms
The bathroom isn’t typically the first vicinity of a home that comes to mind when thinking of adding an accent rug, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add a soft and stylish element. Runner rugs are an excellent addition to the bathroom because they provide a comfortable footing and help elongate the space. Whether you prefer a modern, minimal aesthetic or a classic and traditional vibe, there are plenty of bathroom rugs to choose from.
For a sleek and minimalist look, opt for a striped runner rug that matches the rest of your bathroom decor. For a bolder statement, try a bathroom rug with a bright pop of color or one featuring a graphic print. Layer your bathroom rug with a standard or patterned mat or experiment with different shapes, like a round rug placed perpendicular to the larger runner rug. Layering rugs is an easy way to elevate the style of any room, including the bathroom.
