Did you know that using area rugs can completely elevate a space? It’s a decorative piece that is hugely underrated! You can use rugs in so many ways throughout the home and they are an easy way of adding color and texture to your space!

Layering area rugs start with a base layer, paired with a decorative layer on top. is perfect for using as a base layer for layering area rugs!

I have been using area rugs in a completely different way recently, and wanted to share this with you! And that is – Layering Area Rugs.

This may seem like a super simple principle but can actually trip a lot of homeowners up because of the number of options in the market right now. What size should they be, what style, should they coordinate or be completely different and how on earth can I use this to my advantage?! These are just some of the questions that regularly arise with layering area rugs.

Layering area rugs is a game-changer when it comes to home decor. It’s unexpected, fun, and super creative! Plus, it can actually be a cost-effective route too (yes – despite buying two of them!)

Are you ready to find out everything you need to know about layering area rugs? Read on for our complete guide to layering area rugs!

Layering area rugs completely elevates a space and provides visual interest for everyone to enjoy.

A flat weave natural area rug is ideal for use as the base layer for layering area rugs! is ideal.

 

The Base Layer

 

First things first – the base layer! 

This is the first area rug you use, that will have another one on top. It’s important to put a rug pad under the base rug closest to the floor so you minimize any slipping or moving of the rugs. 

Keep your base layer as thin as possible. After all, it is the larger area rug of the two you will be purchasing, with a portion of it covered by your main decorative rug. A basic, thin rug will do just the trick!

For your base area rug, look for plain textured rugs that don’t have any specific patterns or bright colors. You can use the top layer for color and pattern. The idea behind the base layer is to create an illusion that the whole rug setup is much larger than it really is! This also helps to frame the secondary rug really nicely.

Good materials for your base layer area rug include sisal, jute, and cotton. Natural weave area rugs look fantastic when used as a large base layer because they add warmth and texture, before adding a decorative piece on top.

You may also enjoy reading – Rug Construction Materials!

 

Use thin area rugs when layering them, to avoid anybody tripping over the edges.

Use a fun, colorful, or patterned area rug for the main top layer. This would be great as part of layering rugs!

 

A Decorative Top Layer

 

This is where the magic really happens! And you can get creative with the finishing touch.

The top area rug is your decorative layer, so add color and pattern to your room through this top rug. Because you’re layering rugs on top of each other, it’s important to keep both the base and top layers thin if you can, otherwise, it may feel too thick underfoot and can cause accidents or trips.

This is an opportunity for you to get creative with your colors and patterns while keeping with the base area rug underneath. Choose an abstract rug to combine various colors together, a geometric pattern for modern spaces, or even a cowhide rug looks fantastic when layered in the center of a natural area rug.

So how do you come up with the perfect layering rug combination? Let’s explore this now.

 

For anyone that loves neutrals, pair a natural weave area rug with a round ivory-colored rug like !

Finding A Winning Combination

 

Many homeowners associate area rugs with being the standard rectangular shape, and while this is the most common shape for rugs, you can switch this up when layering them.

Why not combine a traditional rectangular or round shape rug with a different shape on top? You could use a large square shade rug as the base, and an oval or round-shaped one on top. Offset the placement of the round rug to create visual interest in your room.

Get creative with the placement of your rugs when layering them. You could do this by offsetting the top one to the side to create a completely unique design. 

While this may be an extreme example, the possibilities for layering area rugs are endless! Our favorite combination for layering rugs is a natural weave base layer and a vintage / distressed look decorative rug on top. Offsetting the top rug adds a fun look while extending the covered floor area.

 

Thinking about going all out with your layering of area rugs? Pair a rectangular one with this !

Budget Control


Layering rugs may seem like the more expensive route, but it can prove to be just as cost-effective as purchasing only one area rug. The main difference with layering rugs is that you can cover a much larger area of a room with the rugs, than if you were to only use one on its own. 

Controlling your budget for area rugs, especially when layering them, comes down to the material of the rug, size, and where you’re purchasing from.

Look at cheaper options for your base area rug, and purchase the biggest size you can afford with your budget. If you already have a decorative rug in mind for your main top layer – great! – take this into account with your budget and use what is left to find a suitable base layer. You can go for a small-size top rug if you need to because the base layer will frame this.

 

Have you tried to layer area rugs at home? How was your experience? Or perhaps you’re thinking of layering rugs in a room refresh? Either way, I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below!