When it comes to home décor, rugs have the unique ability to transform a room entirely. Layering rugs, a trend embraced by interior designers and homeowners alike, adds depth, texture, and warmth, creating a dynamic, visually interesting space. While it may sound tricky at first, mastering the art of rug layering is all about experimenting and finding combinations that fit your unique style. Here’s a guide to help you layer rugs like a pro, no matter your room’s size or aesthetic.

1. Start with a Base Layer

Your base rug should be a large, neutral piece that anchors the room. Think of it as the foundation upon which you’ll build the rest of the layered look. Opt for something subtle in a solid color or with a minimal pattern, such as jute or sisal rugs, which work well with almost any design. This base rug sets the stage, providing warmth and texture while giving the upper layers room to shine.

• Pro Tip: Choose a base rug slightly smaller than the room size but large enough to frame your furniture.

2. Add Personality with Smaller, Accent Rugs

Once your base is in place, layer smaller rugs on top to bring in personality and style. This is where you can introduce color, patterns, and different textures. Vintage, Persian, or Moroccan rugs often make excellent top layers, adding a pop of color and an element of surprise. These rugs don’t have to be perfectly aligned; placing them at an angle or offset from the base rug can add a touch of creativity and dimension.

• Pro Tip: Play with contrasting colors and textures. A soft, plush rug over a coarser jute base creates an inviting blend of comfort and style.

3. Consider Rug Placement and Overlap

The placement and overlap of rugs can make or break the look. Position your accent rug off-center to draw attention to certain areas, or use a smaller top rug to highlight specific furniture, such as under a coffee table or reading nook. In larger spaces, using more than two rugs can create a layered, cozy atmosphere by defining different zones within the room.

• Pro Tip: Avoid perfect alignment between the base and accent rug. Slight asymmetry adds a designer touch that feels organic and welcoming.

4. Mix Textures for Added Depth

A key advantage of layering rugs is the opportunity to experiment with textures. Combining rugs with different textures, such as pairing a shag rug with a flat-weave, or a wool rug with a natural fiber rug, enhances the tactile experience of the room. Mixing textures adds depth and interest, preventing the layers from feeling flat or overwhelming.

• Pro Tip: For a more sophisticated look, layer a faux fur or velvet rug over a flat-woven base to create a luxurious, cozy aesthetic.

5. Try Bold Patterns for a Statement Look

Layering rugs is also a great way to incorporate patterns without overwhelming the room. If you’re a fan of bold prints, mix patterns strategically to create balance. A solid base layer grounds the room, while a patterned accent rug provides visual interest. Stripes, florals, or abstract patterns add personality, but ensure the colors complement each other to avoid clashing.

• Pro Tip: Stick to a similar color palette when layering patterns, and use one bold print alongside a more subtle design to maintain harmony.

6. Use Layered Rugs to Define Spaces

Layered rugs can help define spaces, especially in open-concept layouts. By placing layered rugs under a dining table or a seating area, you visually separate these areas from the rest of the space, giving each a distinct purpose. This technique is especially useful for creating cozy reading nooks, play areas, or relaxation zones.

• Pro Tip: Choose different but complementary rugs for each area to maintain a cohesive look while defining boundaries.

7. Play with Color and Contrast

Color is a powerful tool in rug layering. A layered setup lets you bring together various hues to add depth and a cohesive color scheme to the room. If your room has a lot of neutral tones, add a vibrant rug on top for a pop of color, or choose tones that complement other elements in the space, like throw pillows or wall art.

• Pro Tip: Keep your color palette consistent with the room's theme but experiment with shades that contrast slightly to keep the look dynamic.

8. Don’t Forget the Edges

One common mistake is not paying attention to rug edges when layering. The way rugs sit next to one another can either create an intentional, stylish look or an awkward overlap. Aim for a smooth transition by choosing rugs with clean edges or adding a rug pad beneath to keep everything in place.

• Pro Tip: For a bohemian or eclectic look, let fringed edges overlap slightly, adding charm and character to the room.

Layering Rugs: Final Thoughts

The art of layering rugs is a fun, creative way to enhance your décor while adding comfort and warmth to your home. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Play around with colors, textures, and placements until you find the combination that feels perfect for you. Whether you're looking to add coziness to your living room or define a space in an open floor plan, layering rugs offers endless possibilities for personalizing your home’s aesthetic.

One or more of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a slight commission if you click through and make a purchase. Each of these products is chosen by a trusted member of our team.