Common Area Rug Styles
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The Best Area Rugs to Try in Your Home

Choosing the right area rug can be a process, but the perfect one will be eye-catching and serve your home well for years to come. No matter the pattern, each area rug style has something unique to offer that will keep your decor focused. Whether you have carpet, tile, or wood flooring, adding an area rug or two to your home will protect your floors from foot traffic and give your decor an instant update. Check out some of the most common area rug styles to take your home decor to the next level.

Choosing the right area rug can be a process, but the perfect one will be eye-catching and serve your home well for years to come. No matter the pattern, each area rug style has something unique to offer that will keep your decor focused. Whether you have carpet, tile, or wood flooring, adding an area rug or two to your home will protect your floors from foot traffic and give your decor an instant update. Check out some of the most common area rug styles to take your home decor to the next level.

Blue and ivory traditional rug

Traditional Rugs

Traditional area rugs are the easiest to identify, and they are popular in American homes. Their main features include Persian influences like intricate designs of vines, flowers, and scrollwork. Traditional rugs have inner borders filled with these intricate designs, making them great for defining and centering spaces like dining and living areas.


Vintage oriental rug in grey and crème

Oriental Rugs

Oriental rugs are usually hand-knotted in Asia by artisans using silk, wool, and cotton. Some rugs with Oriental designs, however, are machine-made. Persian rugs fall into the category of Oriental rugs, though Persian rugs are exclusively made in Iran. These popular rugs are recognizable by their symbolic floral and animal motifs and rich color palettes. Oriental rugs have a distinct style that stands the test of time with bold colors that make them easy to use in multiple design schemes.


Blue, white and gray abstract modern rug

Modern Rugs

Modern area rugs often feature solid colors, but they can also feature geometric patterns or abstract designs with monochromatic and neutral palettes. A trend in modern rug styles includes faded or abstract variations of classic Persian patterns. A modern rug pops in neutral spaces and Mid-Century Modern design schemes, and can provide powerful contrast in industrial-style spaces.


Aztec print southwestern rug with red, yellow, and blue coloring

Southwestern Rugs

Southwestern rugs are often flat woven with a blanket-like texture. Their patterns are inspired by cultural motifs and blocky geometrics found in southwestern regions of the U.S. These patterns feature heavy geometrics and rich earth-toned colors. Southwestern area rugs are often used in rustic and boho chic decor, and in many cases have been modernized with bright neon hues and jewel tones.


Grey and white diamond terllis patterened area rug

Contemporary Rugs

The landscape of contemporary design shifts often, but true contemporary rugs feature rounded patterns, neutral shades, and bright colors. Contemporary rug patterns tend to be softer than the stark, bold lines of Modern patterns. Contemporary rugs also sport trending patterns that are popular in home decor such as trellis, chevron, and abstract designs.


Beige rawhide rug in living room

Hide Rugs

Hide rugs are made from tanned animal hides, usually from cows. These rugs are great for layering or using alone in rustic or bohemian-style home decor. Choose a hide rug to place at the foot of your bed or in an intimate seating area for a cozy look. If you seek the rustic look of a hide rug but want a cruelty-free option, greatofferstock.com offers beautiful faux hides.



by Olivia Collins Rug Specialist
JANUARY 25, 2016

Olivia believes that nothing defines and cozies up a space quite like an area rug. Since there are so many styles and patterns to choose from, she wanted to lend some tips to help you narrow your search for the perfect rug.