A Guide to the Top Styles of Fine Rugs

A fine rug is the finishing touch to beautify your home. When you have taken the time to choose an exquisite rug, its beauty will serve to accentuate and reflect the elegance of its surroundings. It is as much an investment piece as it is an item of decoration. Because only the most luxurious fibers, such as wool and silk, are used in its creation, it will wear beautifully, easily standing the test of time. Working with a knowledgeable rug expert is the key to ensuring that you are getting a gorgeous showpiece that will blend perfectly with your lifestyle and home decor.

Rugs, like furniture and paintings, fall into distinct style categories. Whether your home is traditional, modern, or eclectic, following is a guide to the five most popular styles of fine rugs.  Start now on your journey to owning a prized rug that will last for generations to come.

Antique Rugs

Antique rugs are generally large area rugs, usually made with detailed designs and expert craftsmanship. Ranging in age from decades- to centuries-old, these rugs are one-of-a-kind pieces that are hand-woven and hand-knotted by artisans, often from small villages in far-flung countries, who are renowned for their skill and workmanship. Styles of antiques rugs vary greatly. They are sourced from all over the world, and can range from primitive to ornate, but they are always stunning, whether hung on your wall as art or serving as a functional accessory bring warmth and beauty to your home. When purchasing an antique rug, be sure that you have a trusted expert, who can assure you of the authenticity and appraisal value of your piece.

Traditional Rugs

While antique rugs are considered traditional, not all traditional rug styles are antique. The traditional rug style is known for its highly detailed borders that are often in different hues and more intricate than the central design. Persian rugs comprise a vast proportion of traditional rugs. Look for reds and browns to be featured prominently in traditional Persian rugs, but don't be discouraged if you are seeking a brighter color scheme in traditional rugs. With so many options available, our experts can quickly point you to a traditional style rug in the right color scheme that will accentuate the look of your home.

Tribal Rugs

Tribal style rugs were created by nomadic tribes on the move, who needed their rugs to be portable and warm. These rugs were used as door and floor coverings, blankets, and more. You won't find the kind of detail in a tribal rug that you would see in a traditional rug, but the craftsmanship is every bit as beautiful. They feature more primitive designs, and can blend into almost any home decor, from traditional to modern to eclectic. The colors in tribal rugs range widely, from subdued natural shades to very bright hues. One advantage of tribal rugs' less complicated style is that they can be a more affordable investment for a first-time buyer.

Contemporary Rugs

Modern homeowners rejoice! The vast array of quality contemporary rugs available on the market today is stupendous. Fine contemporary rugs are simpler in their designs and colors, but the possibilities are endless. Bright colors compatible with modern home decoration abound, and contemporary designs can be abstract, floral, blocked, striped, and more. As with all rug purchases, the quality of contemporary rugs can vary widely. Look for rugs that use natural fibers, such as silk or wool, or only the very best of synthetic fibers. Working closely with a fine carpet expert will ensure that you get the very best contemporary rug.  

Transitional Rugs

If you lean toward a more eclectic look or want to add a traditional twist to your modern style or a contemporary spin on your traditional decor, consider a transitional rug. This hybrid style marries the best of the traditional and contemporary designs, by marrying traditional design elements with brighter colors, for instance. Look to transitional rugs to turn a traditional design on its head by expanding a piece of a detailed traditional border design into a central design. Some of the most creative rugs on the market are in the transitional category because they seamlessly blend design elements that have stood the test of time with modern updates.

Whether you are seeking an antique, traditional, tribal, contemporary or transitional rug, visit The Rug Warehouse web site or make an appointment at our Los Angeles by calling 310-838-0450.