The Wide World of Area Rugs

While there's nothing wrong with randomly visiting a local store to select an area rug, it's generally best to do your homework before doing any shopping. Area rugs come in such a wide range of styles and designs that choosing a single one can be positively overwhelming. A great way to simplify your search for the perfect area rug is by learning a little about a few of the most popular varieties that are on the market today. The following overview will give you a crash course on the most popular types of area rugs.

Oriental Rugs

Oriental rugs are the workhorses of the rug world. They have been used for many centuries now and are prized not only for their intricate patterns but also for their amazing durability. If you're looking for attractive area rugs to place in a high-traffic area, an Oriental rug would be a suitable option to consider. Even after several years, a high-quality Oriental rug will continue to look absolutely breathtaking. Oriental rugs that are woven out of wool tend to be quite affordable; silk versions are among the most expensive.

Persian Rugs

Bright colors and elaborate designs are mainstays of the Persian rug style. These sumptuous rugs generally boast geometric, pictorial or floral patterns. In terms of style, Persian rugs are revered around the world. One of the most wonderful things about these types of rugs is that they look better as they age. In fact, enthusiasts typically argue that a brand-new Persian rug looks nowhere near as attractive as one that is ten or twenty years old. In short, they are excellent investments and wonderful additions to any home.

Contemporary Rugs

As their name implies, contemporary rugs are rugs that boast modern, contemporary styles. Bright, vivid colors and sharp geometric shapes tend to be among the most popular contemporary rug styles. These rugs brighten up any room and work well with a number of different types of interior design schemes. Indeed, these types of rugs aren't just suitable for contemporary interior design schemes - they work well with many different styles.

Transitional Rugs

When you put a contemporary twist on a Persian or Oriental rug, you get a transitional rug. These rugs seamlessly blend traditional styles with modern touches; as a result, they are wonderfully versatile and easy to use in many different situations. If you find yourself on the fence about contemporary or more traditional styles, you should definitely look into transitional rugs. Chances are you'll be able to find a style that is the missing link that you were after all along.

Shag Rugs

It's not the seventies anymore; however, shag rugs are making a comeback in a very big way. Unlike their older counterparts, though, these area rugs are bursting with vibrant style and aren't tacky at all. In fact, their plush, soft designs make them wonderful options for a wide variety of different situations. There's something to be said for using as many different textures as possible in the home; to that end, a high quality shag rug can be a very welcome addition to your overall design scheme. Make sure to invest in a shag rug that boasts topnotch craftsmanship for best results.

Braided Rugs

If you were to travel back to colonial times, you'd undoubtedly encounter braided rugs in many homes. Braided rugs were popular mainstays back in the old days, since they were easy to make and helped to provide a soft, comfortable surface on which to walk. Braided rugs can be designed out of braided yarns and other fabric; in fact, old scraps of fabric were once used to make these colorful and eclectic rugs. If you are going for a country-style theme in your home, you can't go wrong with braided rugs. They bring an air of old-time charm to any home.

In addition to the compelling styles that are outlined above, you should make sure to check out other types of area rugs from around the world. Flokah rugs, for instance, are designed in Greece. Their thick piles add a plush element to any room. They are also bursting with Mediterranean flair that you're sure to love! Tibetan rugs are also great options to consider. Stick with a traditional square tiger pattern to imbue your home with a mystical and timeless feel. No matter what type of area rug you ultimately choose, it is sure to reflect your personal taste and impeccable style. Above all else, you will have a lot of fun selecting rugs for your home!

Charlie Dima writes out of Earth City, MO about home improvement tips and DIY projects, including the installation of carpet and area rugs. Always looking for the most affordable prices and well-known brands, she tends to end up shopping at http://www.carpetone.com more often than not.