How to Layer Rugs Like a Designer: Styling Tips for Every Room
How to Layer Rugs Like a Designer: Styling Tips for Every Room
Layering rugs is one of the hottest home décor trends in 2025 — and for good reason. It’s a designer-approved way to add texture, warmth, and dimension to your space. Whether you love boho, modern, or classic styles, learning how to layer rugs can instantly elevate your room’s aesthetic.
Let’s dive into how to do it right.
🧩 Why Layer Rugs?
Layering rugs is more than a style statement — it’s a smart design technique. Here’s what it does for your home:
✅ Adds Texture: Combine flat-weaves with plush rugs for visual depth.
✅ Defines Space: Helps divide open-concept areas naturally.
✅ Mixes Styles: Combine patterns and colors for a custom, curated look.
✅ Protects Rugs: A larger base rug protects your statement piece underneath.
🏠 Step 1: Choose the Right Base Rug
Your bottom layer sets the foundation. Go for neutral tones and larger sizes like 8x10 or 9x12. Materials such as jute or sisal work beautifully since they’re textured but subtle.
👉 Explore: Jute & Natural Rugs Collection
🎨 Step 2: Add a Statement Rug on Top
The top rug is your chance to show personality! Choose something smaller (like 5x8 or 6x9) with pattern, color, or texture. Vintage, Persian, or tribal styles create striking contrast over a natural base rug.
👉 Browse: Overdyed & Vintage Rugs
💡 Step 3: Mix Textures and Patterns
To achieve a balanced layered look, follow the “one bold, one calm” rule:
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If your top rug is patterned, keep the base simple.
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If your top rug is plain, add texture or weave detail to the base.
Some trendy pairings for 2025 include:
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Flat Weave + Shag Rug for cozy modern living rooms.
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Jute + Oriental Rug for boho bedrooms.
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Neutral Wool + Patterned Cotton Rug for balanced contrast.
👉 Discover: Wool Rugs Collection
📏 Step 4: Get the Size Ratio Right
Proportion is key. Your top rug should be smaller by 8–12 inches on each side so that the base rug frames it nicely.
For example:
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Pair a 5x8 rug over an 8x10 base.
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Layer a 6x9 rug over a 9x12 base.
👉 See our Rug Size Guide for detailed sizing ideas.
🛋️ Step 5: Experiment by Room
Living Room: Layer a patterned rug under your coffee table to anchor the seating area.
Bedroom: Place a small wool rug on top of a jute base for soft contrast near the bed.
Entryway: Mix two small runners to create a unique, textured look.
👉 Shop: Flat-Weave Rugs
🌟 Bonus Tip: Try Diagonal Layering
Want a bolder designer look? Try placing your top rug at a slight angle. This off-centered alignment instantly makes a room feel more dynamic and creative.
Final Thoughts
Layering rugs is an effortless way to bring style, warmth, and texture to any room. Start with a neutral base, add a bold accent rug, and play with textures until it feels right.
At Merchants of Asia, we make it easy to experiment — our curated Rug Collections include everything from hand-knotted wool to natural jute, perfect for creative layering combinations.