What to consider when buying a rug

Choosing a rug is a big decision. It goes beyond beautiful design - placement, scale, fibre, and construction will all influence how it looks, feels, and performs in your space. 

To help you find the perfect fit, we’ve outlined some key things to consider.

Try a sample first

Choosing the right rug is easier when you see it in your own space. If you haven't already, borrow up to five samples through our sample service to experience colour, look, and feel. Our 15x15cm samples are ideal for viewing in natural light and matching with your existing flooring, furniture and decor.
Find out more

Style & Colour

Consider how the rug works with furniture, wall colour, artwork, and existing textiles - it can quietly anchor the space or draw the eye as a focal point.
Learn more

Size & Placement

Choosing the wrong size can be the difference between pulling the space together - or not. A rug should comfortably contain and complement the size of the furniture in the room.
Explore our sizing guide

Pile & Weave

A rug’s pile and construction play a key role in how it feels underfoot and how it performs, and wears over time. Low, tight piles suit high-traffic areas, while softer, looser weaves are ideal for relaxed living spaces. TIP: Walk on samples where possible - there’s no better way to understand how a rug will feel and function in your home.

Suitability

Different rugs and fibres suit different rooms and levels of foot traffic. Consider how your rug will perform in terms of durability, comfort, and upkeep, especially if you have children or pets.
Read the suitability guide

Fibre & Maintenance

Fibre and construction shape how a rug looks, feels and wears over time. Each material has its own aesthetic qualities, practical considerations and care requirements.
Understand fibre, construction & care

How Lighting Affects Colour & Appearance

The colour and appearance of a rug can shift noticeably depending on the lighting. Natural vs artificial light, time of day, and bulb temperature can all affect colour perception. Best practice is to always review rug samples in your own space. Place your sample where it will live and view it at different times of day, under both natural and artificial light. Move it around to see how the colour and texture respond.

Natural vs Artificial Light

Rug tones can appear lighter, darker, warmer or cooler depending on the light sources. Natural daylight often brings out the true undertones of fibres like wool or jute, while warm indoor lighting can deepen hues such as beige, gold, or brown. In contrast, cooler lighting, such as LEDs, can flatten or mute warmth, making colours appear sharper or slightly bluer.

Pile Direction

The direction of a rug’s pile (especially in cut-pile or silk-like fibres such as bamboo silk) can reflect and interact with light in varying ways, creating natural shading and tonal shifts. These variations are part of the rug’s character and add a sense of dimension to the piece.

Direction of Light

Shadows from furniture or window treatments can also create contrast, subtly altering the way a pattern or pile is perceived.

Flooring Considerations

Always assesses samples against your actual flooring to see how they interact. The colour, texture, and undertones of the surface beneath significantly affect how the rug looks and feels in your space.

Flooring Type & Colour

The type and colour of your flooring will influence how a rug looks - what works on light oak may appear entirely different on dark concrete. The flooring’s texture or pattern will also contribute to the overall look and feel. Beware of flooring undertones. Wood or stone can have warm (yellow, pink) or cool (grey, blue) undertones. Try to match your rug accordingly.

Contrast 

High contrast (dark rug on light floor) creates definition and presence. The rug becomes a feature. Low contrast (similar tones) creates a quieter, more integrated look.

Surface Considerations

Smooth surfaces (timber, polished concrete) show off rug texture well and allow rugs to lie flat. Tiled, textured, or carpeted floors can cause thinner rugs to sit unevenly. Look for a dense construction or a rug with backing.

Protect your Rug

A little care goes a long way in preserving the beauty and longevity of your rug. Explore the add-ons below and read our maintenance guide for ongoing care.

Rug Underlay

An underlay does more than keep your rug in place - it cushions underfoot, protects your floors, and enhances the safety and durability of your rug.
Learn more

MicroSeal

Microseal is a one-time treatment that can be used on your current or new rug. The non-toxic formula provides long-term protection against stains, sun fade, and general wear.
Discover the benefits

Avoid Strong Sunlight

Australasian sunlight is particularly strong and can lead to fibre degradation and discolouration over time. Dyed and printed natural fibres are more susceptible to fading, so avoid placing these products in areas with direct sunlight where possible. If placed in sunlight, ensure you rotate your rug for even wear and fade.