Next to a fresh coat of paint, one of the easiest ways to liven up your room decor is to bring in a new area rug. But how do you choose the right rug and use it to best advantage? Consider the following guidelines.

You need to first determine how much you can afford to pay for your area rug. If you like to change the look in your room often don't spend as much money. But if you are going for a family heirloom then spend a little more money as well as time looking for the right rug.

What size is right for the room? Experts suggest leaving anywhere from 18 inches to three feet of space between the rug and the wall in most rooms, to allow doors to open easily. However, if the rug is intended for a dining room, then take the measurements of the dining table and add four feet on all sides. The larger size will enable chairs to move out without leaving the rug.

Patterns and colors are important as well when you are choosing an area rug. The pattern should already be in the room but if not, choose a solid pattern. If you want to add pizzazz to the room get a rug that has a dominant pattern. The color should be basic; the lighter color will make a room look and feel larger while the dark colors will make the room feel and look smaller. You will need to take some samples from the upholstery or drapery that you already have in the room to help you match the right color to the rug.

Will the rug be a focal point? If the rug should be a focal point you need to make the center design bold like a medallion. If it is not going to be a focal point then make it a simple pattern that will blend in with everything. Harmony is a great point to make with an area rug that is not a focal point. The rug should have a different shape and size to make it pleasing to the eyes. Also you will need a rug liner to keep the rug from slipping or moving.

Now you need to consider how the rug will be used. Because rugs are so versatile the can be used for many things around the home.

* Use an area rug to separate an area. * Use an area rug to offset the color scheme. If you use bold color the tone the color of the area rug down. * Use a small rug to hang on the wall for art decor. * If you are using neutral colors on the walls and upholstery then you need to use a rug with a bold color. * Carefully choose the shape of the rug to blend in with your furniture. Remember that traditionally rectangular rugs will fit anywhere but you can change things up with an oval rug.

There are so many choices to make when it comes to an area rug for your home. You will love the large selection that is available.

Our best hint for rug decorating, is to use these orange area rugs which will suit any modern furnishings; and in particular these orange flokati rugs.