Myndu Interior Design

Runner rugs are those long, narrow pieces often placed along the floor and stairway. Most people easily associate them with large homes, office lobbies and reception areas for big events. But more and more, they have been gaining popularity as decorative accents for various areas of the home. With more durable flooring materials in the market, runner rugs are increasingly used both for their protective quality and their aesthetic appeal. Next time you shop for rugs, consider looking for runners—they just might be what you need to give your home a visual lift.

So how do you decorate with runner rugs? Just like any home accessory, it depends mostly on how you plan to use it and what other elements are in your home. Because of their shape, runner rugs work best as accents—that is, they contribute to your existing theme rather than create or define it. Start by taking a look at your space, and finding areas where a runner rug would best serve its purpose. If you’re not sure how to go about it, here are some ideas to help you get started.

Protect high-traffic areas

Runner rugs were first used to pad the flooring in well-trodden areas such as corridors, entrance halls and stairways. If you have a traditional home, you probably have those areas as well—and chances are they get more abuse than other parts. This is especially true if you have kids and pets. Placing a runner rug along these areas can help your floors last longer and help you cut down on maintenance work at the same time.

Polypropylene area rugs are your best choice for this purpose. Also known as olefin, polypropylene is made from a synthetic fiber designed to look and feel like traditional rug materials. The best polypropylene rugs are virtually indistinguishable from wool and cotton, but also hold up well against heavy use. As a safety precaution, if you’re using the runner on a stairway, look for one with a non-slip backing to keep it from sliding off.

Complement your décor

Maybe your home needs a splash of color, or maybe you have an existing color scheme that needs a bit of contrast. A runner rug allows you to provide both without going overboard. Since you can move it around, you can experiment with different positions and angles to see where it best fits in. You can also choose to match your current colors for a seamless look, or go for a bold, clashing piece that serves as your focal point.

Another option is to use a patterned runner to set off solid color rugs. If you have a large plain rug, wall-to-wall carpeting, or simply a bare floor, a patterned piece along one side can help break the monotony. This works especially well for large space where much of the floor is usually left bare. Just choose a pattern that complements your theme and you’ve got the perfect accent to your room.

Soften hard floors

Both traditional and modern homes put a premium on tough floors. But while they’re certainly a good investment, they tend to give the home a cold, hard feel. If you walk around a lot, they can also be hard on the feet. Runner rugs add a softer look to the room and make it look more inviting. When used on a hallway, it also makes for more comfortable traffic from room to room. It can also be a good alternative to area rugs, especially if you have limited floor space.

Floral area rugs are one of the most effective styles for this purpose. Soft and feminine, floral prints work especially well against hardwood and stone, where their colors and curves offer a nice, subtle contrast. Make sure to choose one with a soft rubber backing for wood floors, as other materials can scratch and damage the protective coat. Also take note of the size of the pattern—large patterns make the area look smaller, while smaller patterns create the illusion of more space.

Update your décor

One of the best things about runner rugs—and area rugs in general—is that they’re very versatile. Since they’re not permanent fixtures, you can remove and replace them as much as you like. You can also make much bolder choices in color and pattern, as you can always roll them up if you get tired of it. With the variety of rug designs available today, it’s the perfect time to experiment.

If you like to keep up with the trends, get ideas from rug decorating sites. Look for interior design blogs that discuss rug design and search for items on runner rugs. You can also try joining a decorating forum, where you can give and share tips on area rug design. Among other things, you can learn where to find the best runner rugs, how to keep them in top shape, and new ideas for everyday décor.