How To Coordinate Rugs in An Open Floor Plan

Coordinating multiple rugs in your home can be a game-changer when it comes to making open-concept spaces look intentional and stylish.

Whether you're working with a single room or an open floor plan, here are some helpful tips to make it all come together seamlessly.

Should You Have Two Rugs in One Room? Here’s What to Consider

One of the most common questions when decorating an open-concept living and dining area is whether to use one rug or two rugs.

It all comes down to the amount of space you have and how much separation you want between your areas.

• If you have room to walk between the two areas without straddling either rug, then you’ve got enough space to comfortably use two rugs.
  
  But here’s the catch: The rugs should relate to each other in some way. Using similar colors or complementary designs ensures the two spaces feel cohesive even if they have their own personalities.
  
  

• If your layout is more L-shaped, you have even more flexibility. Since the areas are already visually separated, you can afford to choose rugs that are slightly more distinct from one another.
  
  

• For tighter spaces, stick to a single rug in the living room rather than the dining room. The rug will act as a foundation, pulling all the pieces of furniture together to create a cohesive setting.
  
  

Rug Size Guide: Want to make sure you’re choosing the right size rug for your living room, bedroom, or outdoor patio? Visit our Rug Size Guide to find the perfect fit for every space.

Mixing Patterns

If you’re going for rugs with patterns, the trick is to choose rugs with different pattern scales. For instance, pairing a large-scale patterned rug with a smaller striped one works beautifully. The key is the contrast—when the patterns are different enough, they look intentional rather than clashing.

Another essential tip is to work within your color palette. If you’re not sure about your palette, a rug can be a great starting point. Choose rugs within the same palette, but not necessarily the exact same shades. 

This creates cohesion without looking too matchy-matchy.

If the idea of mixing two patterned rugs feels overwhelming, try a foolproof approach: pair one patterned rug with a solid one. It’s a classic combo that looks elegant every time.

Choosing the Right Materials

Understanding materials is crucial. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Synthetic Rugs (e.g., Polypropylene): Perfect for high-traffic areas where spills might happen, like dining rooms. They’re affordable and come in tons of styles, but they do show signs of wear quicker than natural fabrics.
  
  

• Natural Rugs (e.g., Wool, Cotton, Jute, Seagrass): Wool is the longest-lasting option and retains its value over time. It’s worth investing in if you find a rug you truly love. Natural rugs work best in areas you want to keep cozy and stylish for years.
  
  

• Washable Rugs: Ideal for mess-prone areas but might not be suitable for larger rooms.

Getting the Rug Size Right

Choosing the right size can make or break your room’s aesthetic. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Living Room: Make sure at least the front legs of your furniture rest on the rug. This anchors your seating area and makes the room feel more cohesive.
  
  

• Dining Area: The rug should be large enough for all chairs to scoot back without falling off. Otherwise, it’s going to feel awkward every time you pull out a chair.
  
  

• Avoiding Costly Mistakes: Don’t buy a rug thinking you can return it for free if it doesn’t work out. Shipping costs can be expensive, especially for larger rugs.
  
  

• Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about the size or color, try mapping out the rug’s dimensions on your floor or ordering a sample if possible.

Try Before You Buy (Mood Boards)

To avoid costly mistakes, try pairing your rugs using a mood board. 

Place them side by side and see how they look next to your furniture, wall paint, and floor color.

This visual planning helps ensure you’re making a cohesive choice.

Takeaway

For spacious open-concept areas, consider using two complementary rugs to define your living and dining areas while keeping the overall aesthetic cohesive.

For smaller spaces, a single rug in the living room works best to visually anchor the space.

Incorporating these tips will make your space feel intentionally designed, warm, and inviting.