by stepheng on November 21, 2010
Modern area rugs are a great way to decorate your home. There are area rugs that enhance the look of living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. There are also those that are best suited for other spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
Area rugs surely add definition to any space in your home and the sky is the limit when it comes to modern area rugs. Here are some tips on how to choose modern area rugs and achieve a great outcome for your living spaces.
1. Modern area rugs come in many different shapes such as rectangular, square, and round. The rectangular shaped modern area rug works well in great rooms, entry halls, living rooms, and dining rooms. Round modern area rugs complement almost any design, but look especially good in living and dining rooms. They can instantly become a focal point of any area.
2. Most area rug styles and colors change each year. Some of the more popular colors used recently are maroon, pale sea-green and pale gray-blue. Warm earthy tones can be obtained by adding bright color to rooms with neutral colored area rugs. In spaces for kids and teenagers, florescent colors and overlapping patterns are a great look. Rugs with brighter colors and bold designs should be considered the focal point of a room. Bright contrasting colors may be used for a look which grabs attention. For a clean and simple style, rugs with oblique designs in black and white or contrasting colors work well.
3. Modern area rugs come in many different sizes. Small rugs can be used to create interest under a small dining table, along the sofa, or under a coffee table. Large modern area rugs can be the design focal point in a living room. The larger the rug, the bigger effect on the whole space.
Modern area rugs can do a lot for a room. No matter what look you are trying to create for your space, modern area rugs are a great way to achieve your goal.
by stepheng on November 7, 2010
Tibetan rugs are tribal tradition. They are made for family, monastery, or animal use in different forms. Some even have an added ceremonial function. The designs of Tibetan rugs are diverse. They are distinctive, intriguing, and an excellent conversational work of art – often pictographic and usually focusing on life and nature.
The basic material for Tibetan rugs is the wool. The wool is considered to be the soul of the rug, and is known for its fine quality and smoothness. It comes from the flocks of sheep raised in the high plateau of the Himalayan mountains where the climate conditions are rigorously cold. It is a fundamental uniqueness that can’t be replicated since the Himalayan plateau is isolated, and native to few plants and animals. It is said that there is a unique, special quality that cannot be duplicated – “the gleam, smell and the soul is lost if not original.”
Because the wool comes from higher altitudes, more oils come through, and when mixed with early dyes, a beautiful sheen is created. The wool is the only abundant Tibetan material, and it is thought that wool rugs are older and more traditional than cotton rugs. It is sometimes impossible to determine the exact age of a Tibetan rug.
Another reason that Tibetan wool rugs are distinctive is that the construction of Tibetan rugs reflects the human element. Unlike any other in the globe, the Tibetan knot is indigenous to Tibet. The method used to make Tibetan rugs is considered to be an ancient technique. Sometimes Tibetan rugs are made in such a way that the pattern can be hard to discern.
Tibetan rugs surpass time. They have become more available in the market in recent years. What used to be available only in remote areas is now accessible world wide. If you’re looking for a distinctive, unique rug, you must surely consider Tibetan rugs.
by stepheng on October 27, 2010
Why Choose Cotton Shag Rugs
One of the most vital elements of decor in any home is a rug. It is important because of its aesthetic appeal and its functionality.
Shag rugs are a very popular current trend in decorating. They are versatile because they can be used in many different types of living spaces and can work well with any décor in a home, whether contemporary or traditional. Shag rugs vary in size, color, design and material, giving the buyer many choices.
A type of shag rug that is particularly well liked is one made of cotton, and for several reasons. Cotton is distinctive in that its fibers have a natural form that enables them to be spun into very tough yarns. Also, because cotton absorbs water into the core of its fibers, dirt and stains can be easily removed. It has natural qualities that make it soft and comfortable to the touch. Another advantage of cotton is that it doesn’t readily build up static electricity. These qualities all contribute to making cotton shag rugs a good choice for the home.
Cotton shag rugs are available in a range of pile heights and styles of yarn, creating options that are luxurious, warm, and comfortable. The cotton shag rug brings all the conventional advantages of cotton to your home. It’s easy to see why they are a great choice for casual living areas such as children’s rooms, family rooms, or game rooms.
by stepheng on October 3, 2010
Do you want to create a classic ambiance in a room with a Tibetan touch? It’s not hard to achieve this look because the wide range of Tibetan rug designs makes it possible.
Tibetan rugs are renowned among all other rugs worldwide because of their unique knotting method and because they are made from Tibetan highlands sheep wool called changpel. The inspirations of the designs are products of the creative minds of Tibet’s ancient weavers and have continued to flourish until the present. Over the years the designs have become more sophisticated and more experimental with colors.
In modern decorating, people use carpets and rugs to add character and a sense of history to their living spaces. Using traditional rugs alongside more modern decorating elements results in a style that has sophistication and drama. In addition to their traditional use as floor coverings, Tibetan rugs can also be used on couches and as wall designs. They provide durable beauty and function for your home.
Tibetan Rug Uses
Tibetan rugs have become a “must have” item in the homes of famous personalities such as designer F. J. Webb. He has said that he is amazed by the beauty and quality these rugs offer, and is a fan of a variety of Asian woven carpets and rugs.
There are more Tibetan designs available now than ever before, and one of these designs could serve as the cornerstone of that room transformation you’ve been contemplating. Just imagine the possibilities!
by stepheng on September 19, 2010
How can you turn a ho-hum room into a space with panache? Many people are discovering a simple and accessible way to achieve this with the use of fine and artistically designed shag rugs.
Shag rugs can transform your room into a living space with the feel you desire, whether it be romantic, Mediterranean, or just a light mood. There are many designs in different sizes, colors, and shapes, giving you many options for customizing your room. In addition to creating a pleasant ambiance in your room, shag rugs are also comfortable because of their texture and outward strands that make up the carpet.
There is a large number of high quality shag rugs sold at very affordable prices, but of course the ones that are more durable and comfortable are those at the higher prices. There are also inexpensive synthetic rugs available which are good for experimental purposes when you’re not sure of how a shag rug will look in you home. Whatever look you hope to achieve, you should be able to find a cost effective rug to suit your aesthetic desires and your style of living.
Shag rugs have also been used as an artistic expression of history; they have been used to demonstrate the significance of a generation through the pattern of its woven wool. An interesting facet of shag rugs is that they become dynamic in style without getting away from their classical touch.
Shag rugs can surely add appeal to any home decor and can be used in so many ways to make a statement of style. You’ll be amazed how these interesting pieces can make a great design impact in your home.
by stepheng on September 6, 2010
There are many ways to beautify your home’s interior, especially your living room. Of all the decorating options for use in your home, one of the most useful additions is the casual rugs that have such great versatility in styles and designs. These kinds of rugs are mostly found in the living room but are also present in other parts of the house.
Having a casual rug in your living room will enhance the cozy feel of your home and can be very inviting to your guests. If wool rugs are your choice, they contribute to a feeling of warmth, especially during the winter season. Aside from the practical benefits of rugs, such as warmth and floor protection, it also gives life to the style of your home.
Casual area rugs have clean designs in basic colors and simple patterns such as lines, boxes, circles, and geometric designs. These types of rugs have soft and light designs that add warmth and a comfortable feel to your living spaces. There are many choices ranging from floral patterns, circular designs, geometric patterns, or solids.
A distinct advantage of these modern area rugs is that they enhance the look of any type of living room decor, whether contemporary, modern, or traditional. These rugs not only protect your floor from scratches, they can complement your existing decor or be the spark to effect an entirely new look when you redecorate.
Rather than buying a lot of accessories to create a new look in your home, adding a new rug can achieve the same goal. Stylish black and white rugs can enhance the look of any house without having to go over budget. A reasonable expenditure can make a big impact on the feel and style of your living space.
by stepheng on June 25, 2010
One of the bright young minds in home decor, Amy Butler has put together a collection of modern rugs that has been featured in magazines across the globe. This fine rug collection is hand tufted and dyed, and made of 100% New Zealand wool. This collection of 19 rugs with 13 designs is inspired by Amy Butler’s signature fabrics and bedding prints.
The wide range of designs on these finely crafted rugs allows the discerning eye to enjoy any decorative challenge. The Caracas design is a deep red floral print. If you’re looking for a rich organic pattern for your floor, the Ananthus design should suit your needs. Lacework, another of the 13 designs available in this collection of modern rugs, is one of the most popular designs and the most elaborate of the collection. The near electric sky with fields littered with flowers can only be the beautiful Bright Buds design. Bright Buds works wonders in any room that may be looking for a little life. The Field Poppy design is a beautiful display of poppies and leaves that can add a modern feel to your room. The beautiful Georgia design consists of soft circles in a green or blue color option. The Coventry has a modern English countryside influence. There are also symbolic carvings on Amy Butler Rugs that represent celebration of life.
These designs are just a few of the many that are available in the Amy Butler collection of modern rugs. The combination of quality materials and high end craftsmanship make the Amy Butler collection a definite success.
by stepheng on June 18, 2010
Brink & Campman has a longstanding innovative attitude toward the design and manufacture of rugs. The hand knotted and hand tufted woven rugs are at the forefront of modern rug design. The Gripper Axminster, a weaving technique that produces a classic low pile carpet, is used in the manufacture of these rugs. However, high pile rugs are available as well. The collection of hand knotted rugs is woven with pure new wool, and is available in a wide range of sizes and styles.
The Himali hand knotted rug is available in ten designs, the Kodari has thirteen designs, while the Weave has two. The Mood design has two color ways to complete the hand knotted collection. The Loft is a hand tufted rug and is offered in one color way. The Estella is offered in seventeen designs, while the Luna and Como are offered in three. The Xian is hand tufted with thirteen designs available. The City, the last of the hand tufted rugs, is available in eight colorful designs.
The 2010 Brink & Campman collection offers a wide range of modern rugs in the European style. Brink & Campman rugs will always be among the world’s finest. The 2010 collection is no exception, and is sure to please.
by stepheng on June 11, 2010
The circle pattern is one of the most popular designs for modern rugs. Designers use these patterns in many different ways, sometimes employing a combination of small circles to complement large circles. These modern rugs use anything from vibrant colors to black and white or anything in between.
There are endless possibilities when decorating with circle pattern rugs. This pattern can be colorful or earth tone, geometric or abstract. Designers may use elongated circles to form an oval or oblong shape. Those patterns can then be used in an abstract way, creating a spiral or interwoven effect.
The use of circles is also popular in abstract rugs. Some of these rugs contain very complex patterns of circles while others use very simple designs. These rugs are usually used as the centerpiece for a living room, bedroom or office. Circle pattern rugs are found in a variety of colors and materials and will always be a classic design. The versatility of the circle pattern will allow these rugs to transcend current trends and present a timeless option for your rug selection.
by stepheng on May 23, 2010
There is a reason that brand names are usually the highest quality in any industry. The top brand names are the result of superior craftsmanship, and use of the finest materials. There are few names in home decor that are as well known as the Martha Stewart brand. These modern rugs are one of the most popular rug collections, from petit point 100% wool rugs to the finely crafted Tibetan rugs. This collection of fine rugs is made from the finest wool, silk, and linens from around the world.
In today’s market, you get what you pay for with any purchase. This modern rug collection ranges in price from the mid $200′s, all the way to the sea flora rug that retails at $7,000. These wonderfully diverse collections of rugs are divided into six categories. The Bloomberg rug is a unique display of Chinese craftsmanship. With a durable, yet soft feel, the Bloomberg rugs are well suited for any bedroom. The petit point is one of the many modern rugs in this collection that is made from 100% wool. This rug works well in the family room or living room. The Tibetan rug is made from wool, silk, and a linen weave. The flat weave is a Belgian rug that is most commonly used to add a classic touch to any dining room. The Nepalese rug is made from high quality wool from Katmandu, Nepal. This rug is perfect for any bedroom. The oushak is a Turkish rug that is most commonly used in living rooms. This collection of Martha Stewart rugs offers a myriad of choices at a fair price, and is an example of the quality that is associated with the Martha Stewart brand.
by stepheng on May 15, 2010
The Tibetan rug is one of the World’s oldest, and most finely crafted rugs. These rugs display Tibet’s religious expression and customs. The Tibetan rug is made from sheep’s wool, which is woven into a high quality yarn by a spinner, a well respected individual who uses a wooden wheel to produce the yarn. The rug is then hand woven, and can take two to four months to complete depending on the size of the rug. Tibetan rugs are known for their quality and should not be confused with rugs simply made in Tibet. Nepal and India are two countries that thrive from the large demand that these rugs have created. The hand crafted quality of Tibetan Rugs puts them in high demand in many Asian cities. Traditionally, the Tibetan rug has been used as a futon mat for sleeping and sitting, but many people in this region also use these modern rugs for meditation or prayer.
Tibetan culture plays a large part of the interior décor of 
the home. Because most Tibetan homes have little furniture, the rugs become the focal point of the living spaces. Tibetan rugs are also used as a form of art, often on a wall, beautifully displaying the traditional intricate rug patterns. Tibetan rugs have grown in popularity and availability, allowing the beautiful textures, excellent quality, and colorful designs to be enjoyed by many around the world.
by stepheng on May 8, 2010
Damask rugs are not a new trend in modern design, with their original inspiration coming from Spanish, French, and Italian motifs. The damask print is firm, lustrous, and often reversible with a symmetrical floral and leaf pattern. This symmetrical pattern made damask patterns a popular choice for formal furniture coverings for many upper class homes in England. The damask patterns go back to the days of Louis XIV, but many current designers incorporate these patterns into a modern or contemporary decor. While the damask print is from old-world European art, there is a lively presence added to the room that works in both modern/ contemporary design, and old world styles of decor. The symmetrical quality of the print allows for diverse usage, while still retaining the timeless quality of the print. Damask print is usually two-toned which gives it that classic but rather simple elegance. This pattern is very well received by designers and end users alike. Damask is widely used for bedrooms and bathrooms in current design trends. Damask Rugs are very popular in today’s decorative industry and they are used in many interesting lay-outs.
The balance between symmetry and simplicity of the Damask print used on rugs has long been a favorite with both interior designers and home owners. The damask print has stood the test of time and will continue to be one of the favorites of the rug fashion industry.
by stepheng on February 22, 2010
Decorating With Animal Print Rugs
Looking for a way to spice up your living space with just a little touch of the exotic? One thing you may want to consider is using animal prints in your decor. Decorating with animal prints is something that people have done since the beginning of civilization, yet it can still add a modern and trendy feel to a room when incorporated tastefully. Some popular animal prints being used today are zebra, cheetah, tiger, leopard, and even cow design! Here are some tips for using animal print rugs in your decorating:
1) Don’t go overboard. Animal print items are meant to draw the eye’s attention, and thus should be kept to a minimum. Having too many animal prints in a room can be overwhelming and can end up looking tacky.
2) Don’t mix animal prints. Having more than one type of animal print in your room creates a look that clashes. Just as you wouldn’t mix stripes with checkers, don’t mix zebra print and leopard print!
3) Don’t use in conjunction with other “busy” designs. Animal prints are best paired with solid colors to create a striking contrast effect that really makes them “pop.”
Some animal print decorations that make great accents are throw pillows, lamp shades and animal print rugs. Whether you are hoping to achieve that “safari” feel or are simply looking for something to liven up your living space, animal print accents are sure to do the trick!
by admin on October 20, 2009
Calvin Klein is best known for his clothing line and is a leading brand name in the fashion industry. Taking his knowledge of fashion to new heights, Calvin Klein has applied it to create a great assortment of home products, particularly area rugs. These home goods are a part of the ‘Calvin Klein Home’ collection.
Calvin Klein rugs are an image of the simple and elegant design style which can be seen in his clothing line. Like his fashion creations, The Calvin Klein Home collection adheres to these same principles. A contemporary look is the underlying theme with the Calvin Klein collection of rugs, but the feature that sets them apart from other collections is the use of earthy colors in unique patterns. While maintaining a modern and trendy look, these contemporary rugs have a comfortable and warm feeling to them. The materials used in the collection are high quality New Zealand wools, blended fibers, and silks that create a fresh and luxurious feel. The rare Tibetan knotting technique used gives these rugs an ultra luxurious feel making them definitely worthy of their higher price tag.
by admin on October 20, 2009
Coral patterns are a great way to liven up a room and create a great modern look. Becoming increasingly popular over the last couple of years, coral patterns are used on pillows, rugs, and lamp shades.
One of the best ways to use this pattern in a room is with coral rugs. Not only are they versatile and colorful, but because they usually come in two tones they integrate easily into the color scheme of a room. When integrating a coral pattern into your room, make sure that most of the other pieces are solid colors. Trying to use too many different patterns is not only challenging but can create a look that is “too busy”. Lastly, you shouldn’t use more than one instance of a coral pattern within a room, as it could look overdone or busy. Remember, often times less is more.
by stepheng on September 27, 2009
Whether indoors or outdoors, rugs occupy an important function in every home. Indoor rugs are used to decoratively build the foundation of a room and create a certain look. However, we have dual expectations for outdoor rugs: they need to decorate the area where they are placed, and they must be able to adequately withstand the elements.
Outdoor rugs can be chosen to coordinate with the home design or the landscaping of the house. In a patio setting outdoor rugs are one of the first things to be noticed, as they reflect the owner’s taste and style. Modern / contemporary homes may have modern outdoor rugs with bold and geometric patterns, whereas more traditional homes often have outdoor rugs more reflective of a classic look. The important thing to note is that outdoor rugs are placed in areas where people will congregate, so durability is very important.
From a design standpoint it is important that the rug you choose matches not only your patio furniture, but also the colors and tones of the patio itself as well as the exterior of your home. Excess is not necessary when selecting an outdoor rug. Smaller more subtle rugs will go a long way an enhancing your outdoor space without “over doing it”.
Lastly, when choosing a color it is important to take into consideration the amount of exposure the rug will have to both sunlight and rain. If your rug will be exposed to many hours of direct sunlight, selecting a lighter color that won’t show as much fading may be a wise choice.
by admin on September 26, 2009
Creating a modern look in an older home is a challenging task and needs decorative revamps to achieve the desired results.
The most important thing in decorating an older home is to start with the walls. The walls can be altered to create the desired atmosphere. Modern patterns, new fabric designs, paintings or portraits can be used to enhance the walls. White washing the walls and applying bolder colors, or adding striped rugs will also go a long way in creating a more modern look.
Older homes often have large windows which help to make a room look spacious. These windows can often take up an entire wall. However, if the home has smaller windows, they should be covered with lighter shades of curtains or blinds.
Flooring is also an important aspect that needs to be changed to get a more modern look. Instead of using wall-to-wall carpeting, modern area rugs can be used to highlight a section of the room. Furthermore it is important to highlight rooms such as your kitchen and family room with very modern looking, sleek items of technology. LCD televisions, stainless steel appliances, and modern lighting will add great form and of course great function to your space.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the use of minimalism in your design approach will prove to be the most beneficial when attempting to create a more modern look.
by admin on September 20, 2009
Creating a feeling of space and openness in a smaller room or apartment can be a somewhat daunting task. However there are certain techniques that can be employed in making a room look larger.
Colors are the most important feature that can create the desired effect if used prudently. Light colors are known to reflect more light, hence they will make a room appear spacious and airy. In contrast, dark colors make a room appear cozy and intimate. Therefore, for optimal effect, pastel and neutral shades or creams can be used to give the room a more spacious look. It is helpful to follow a monochromatic color scheme on the walls, rugs and the furniture. Therefore the upholstery and furniture color used must coordinate with the walls. This would ensure that there is no “breaking” of space, and the furniture will tend to blend with the walls.
Flooring should be light colored as well, whether it’s with lighter colored hardwood floors or lighter colored rugs. Contemporary area rugs usually are simple in design and come in bright colors, lending themselves very well to achieving a feeling of space.
The room should be well lit either naturally or with artificial lighting. Heavy draperies are out, and soft floral patterned curtains should be used. Also, the fabrics used in the room should be in soft, plain colors or have prints that would enhance the brightness of the room.
By following these simple guidelines one can make a small room appear larger and more spacious.
by stepheng on September 20, 2009
Thomas Paul rugs are world famous and known for great modern designs. The most striking features of these rugs are the use of superior fabrics, exceptional craftsmanship, and precision in the manufacturing of each rug. The Thomas Paul collection has earned a reputation for the highest quality in design and value.
Thomas Paul’s concept is inspired from a variety of art styles, and a mix of historic design styles. These styles include: Art Nouveau which originated in the 1890s and is famous for its flowing lines; 18th Century Baroque where religious themes form the crux of the art; Pop Art from the 60’s; and the Minimalist form of designs from the 70’s. All these art forms of various periods are blended into unique styles and color patterns that complement the style of modern day homes and interiors.
Use of high quality wool and excellent craftsmanship are hallmarks of the Thomas Paul Rugs Collection. These rugs are masterfully hand tufted, with styles ranging from pile rugs to hand woven dhurries, and can be found in vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns.
New York City is the birth place of Thomas Paul and it is here that he graduated from the New York Fashion Institute of Technology, where he earned a degree in textile designing. His stint with the fashion industry began when he started working with DKNY as an intern and designed neck wear collections for designers such as DKNY, Bill Blass and Calvin Klein. After this experience, he started designing his own collection of neck wear referred to as ‘digities’.
When this concept did not catch on, he changed course and introduced his pillow collection in 2001, using silk to produce home accessories instead of personal accessories. As the Thomas Paul Pillow Collection grew and became a known brand, he moved on to design other categories of home furnishings, including lamp shades, rugs and stationery.
Resources: www.safavieh.com
