You’ve just built the flatpack sofa and coffee table, you’ve decorated the sideboards with trinkets and vases, and the coffee table is laden with coffee table books. Though, however full the place seems…it’s still missing something. Enter: a space-tying rug.
A rug is one of the most understated styling tools one can have in their arsenal of interior design. You can play with tone, pattern, texture, size and shape to establish different areas or make a statement in any given room. Though, as visually striking as a quality rug can be, they often don’t come cheap.
To help restyle your space without breaking the bank, we’ve done the research for you and have rounded up some of the most stylish yet affordable rugs on the market. From natural jute to Persian-style, there’s a budget-friendly rug for every living room floor.
6 affordable rugs to shop in 2024
Lahome large Persian washable non-slip rug, $295.12, Amazon
A Persian-style rug never fails when it comes to breathing character into a space. This one features a balance of warm and cool tones in an intricate pattern – ideal for the Boheme.
Style notes:
- 1.5m x 2m
- Soft-underfoot polyester base
- Non-shedding and non-slip
- Soft low-pile
- Machine-washable
Natural Watson handwoven jute rug, from $109, Temple & Webster
Handmade with a 100 per cent jute weave, this natural-toned rug from Temple & Webster is perfect for coastal interiors. Soft and smooth, it’s cosy but made to stand the test of time in high traffic areas. A perfect pairing with a white slipcover sofa.
Style notes:
- Available in 3m x 0.8m, 2.3m x 0.8m, 2.30m x 1.60m, 3m x 2m and 3.3m x 2.4m
- Handmade
- Non-shed
- Two-year product warranty
Amigos de Hoy Hawkwind rug 120x180cm, $249, Hardtofind
This soft jade tile patterned rug features a print inspired by the streets of Morocco and tufted peach tassels on each end. Position it underneath an amber or olive-toned sofa.
Style notes:
- Available in 1.2m x 1.8m or 2m x 3m
- Cotton
- Tufted tassels
Rug Culture Laguna cream rug 230x160cm, $199.95, Myer
With hand tufted yarns and power loomed polypropylene, this non-shedding cream rug complements most home decors from coastal to modern boho.
Style notes:
- Available in six colourways
- Available in multiple sizes
- 40mm pile high
- Made in Turkey
Marill 160cmx100cm Bubbly washable rug in Natural, $152 (usually $160), Interior Secrets
Made with furry friends in mind, this bubble-effect rug features high and low pile for an interesting tactile experience, is machine-washable and pet-friendly. Definitely one for the contemporary household to consider.
Style notes:
- Available in eight variations
- Pile design with a bubble effect via high and low pile
- Machine-washable
- Anti-slip backing
- Power loomed construction
- Lightweight design
Oslo Diamond low shag rug 200x300cm, $189, Big W
Ideal for the Scandi-styled home, this diamond patterned low shag adds a touch of minimalistic charm to the living room.
Style notes:
- Scandinavian-inspired design
- Soft low shag construction
- Polypropylene, nylon, jute and latex construction
Should I put a rug on my hardwood floor?
As well as elevating the aesthetic of your space through texture and colour, a rug is also a practical addition to your flooring as it can protect the integrity of hardwood flooring from heavy furniture. Just make sure that the rug doesn’t have a rough or abrasive backing that could potentially scratch the floor over time.
When should you not use a rug?
At the end of the day, there are no rules to interior design as to each their own…however, if your room errs on the smaller side, a rug may visually divide the space – making it appear less spacious and more crowded. Though, a bit a maximalism never hurt anyone.
Related articles:
- These sustainable rugs can be hosed off and left to dry when dirty
- How to choose the best rug for your space
- The best floor lamps to suit every design taste and style
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