The Art of Layering Rugs: Style Tips

Layering rugs is one of the most creative ways to bring depth, warmth, and personality into your home. Once considered the domain of eclectic designers and bohemian spaces, this technique is now a go-to styling choice in homes of every kind, from contemporary flats to country retreats.

When done well, layered rugs can soften a room, add structure to open-plan layouts, and allow you to mix textures, patterns, and tones in ways that feel truly personal.

Why Layer Rugs?

At its core, layering is about contrast and cohesion. It allows you to use multiple rugs to create distinct zones within a space, introduce texture and colour, or make a too-small rug work harder.

If you’ve fallen in love with a rug that’s slightly undersized for your living room, place it over a larger neutral base, like a sisal or jute rug, to anchor it. Not only does this ground the room visually, but it also helps avoid the dreaded “floating bathmat” look.

Best Rug Combinations for Layering

Some pairings just work. Try layering:

• A vibrant kilim over a large sisal rug to add energy to a minimal space.
• A Persian or Turkish rug over seagrass in a drawing room to contrast colour with calm.
• A flatweave runner atop a larger wool rug in an entryway or boot room for practicality and charm
• Two smaller patterned rugs at the foot and side of a bed for texture and symmetry

It’s about creating a space that feels lived in, layered, and loved.

For more visual inspiration, this guide by House & Garden shares brilliant examples of rugs layered with ease and elegance.

Zoning with Rugs in Larger Rooms

In large, open-plan spaces, layered rugs can do more than look beautiful. They help define areas, marking out where a seating area ends and a dining space begins. For example, a soft handwoven wool rug under a coffee table can sit comfortably atop a larger, more durable natural rug, subtly separating the lounge from the dining area.

It’s also an excellent solution for rooms with unusual layouts or historic features where conventional furniture placement doesn’t quite work.

Texture, Colour and Playfulness

Layering is a perfect excuse to play with texture and tone. Think of a rich velvet sofa, paired with a wool and jute rug base and topped with a patterned cotton dhurrie or antique runner. The tactile variation adds comfort, while visual layering adds soul.

Don’t be afraid to mix patterns. Just make sure they share a common colour palette. That’s the secret to a scheme that feels bold, not busy.

Make It Yours

At London Luxury Rugs, we curate a collection that invites creativity. Whether you're working with neutrals or love to embrace maximalism, layering lets you add depth and personality without starting from scratch.

Start with one rug you love, then build around it. The result? A home that feels warm, expressive, and uniquely you.

Any questions. Drop us a line here. We are always happy to help or dive straight into our collections for instant inspiration.