I Ordered Three Rugs For Our Bedroom (These Will Take The Bedroom In Two Very Different Directions)
Last week, I ordered three rugs to test out for our bedroom. I know what you’re thinking. “Kristi, you don’t even really have a bedroom yet! Why are you ordering rugs?” I know. I got a little ahead of myself. I have a long way to go before I’m ready to put a rug down in that room — that room that doesn’t even have flooring in it yet. 😀
But I’m trying to get everything in order so that when I’m ready to decorate, I have everything on hand (or have a very clear direction for the projects that need to happen, like the bedside tables I want to build). So I have the wallpaper and the drapery fabric. I’ve decided to go with dark teal for our upholstered headboard. (I’ll add greens with pillows, but I’m keeping with dark teal for the headboard.) And I wanted to go ahead and decide on a rug. I found three on Amazon that I thought might work, so I ordered all three to test them out.
I ruled one of them out immediately. It’s so hard to buy a 9′ x 12′ rug based on a tiny little picture online. The first one is this Safavieh Madison in gray and gold (affiliate link). I thought maybe, possibly, I could sneak some some pink or orange or coral into the room with the rug, and this one seemed to have the right teals and greens based on the picture (at least on my computer screen), so I took a chance.
Well, it’s horrible. I mean, the rug itself is very pretty. I wish it worked, because if I had to choose any of the three to be in my house, this one would be my top choice. Here’s a look from one direction…
And here it is from the opposite direction, just in case it has a nap to it that changes the color. (I don’t think it does.)
But here’s where the horrible comes in. It’s just an immediate no once I add the other items. 😀 It was so terrible that it made me laugh. Oh my gosh, how awful…
The next one is this Bestsweetie rug (LOL at that name) in green/teal/multi (affiliate link). Here’s from one direction…
And here’s from the opposite direction. This rug is very interesting and definitely doesn’t have a nap to it. It doesn’t even have a pile to it at all.
This rug is basically the perfect match to the drapery fabric. I mean…perfect. And honestly, I can’t help but to think that it’s too perfect. Maybe I’m being silly, but I don’t want matchy/matchy. I want items that complement each other, but this seems beyond being complementary. This is matchng.
Of course, the entire medallion will be hidden underneath the bed, so it’s just these sides that will show. I like this better. And I really do like that the whole rug is light and bright, as opposed to the drab background color of the first rug.
And finally, I got this Loloi Jean Stoffer rug in Ocean/Pebble (affiliate link). I’ll just say right off that this is an absolutely gorgeous rug.
I can’t tell if this one had a nap to it, but here it is from the other direction.
I didn’t love it with the drapery fabric and wallpaper right on it.
It wasn’t terrible. It was certainly nothing revolting like the first rug and drapery fabric combo. 😀 But it just wasn’t really doing anything for me.
So I decided to head to bed and give them another look this morning. I draped the curtain fabric over the treadmill and flipped the rugs back so that Cooper couldn’t walk on them, and then started getting ready for bed. When I walked back through later, I saw this, and I really liked it! I think these work beautifully together!
So rugs #2 and #3 are the options. The first one is brighter and more colorful with more pattern and movement, which is generally what I gravitate towards. The second one is calmer, more subdued, more earthy. Those generally aren’t words I’d use to describe my decorating style, but I do wonder if it’s the better choice for our bedroom. I don’t necessarily need a whole lot of color, brightness, movement, and pattern in our bedroom. Or do I? 😀
I just don’t know. If I had to choose right this very moment, I’d probably choose the third one. But I’ve tried earthy, subdued choices in the past and regretted them. But this is just a rug. I think I could make this work. I still have lots of opportunity to bring in more color and pattern with bedding, a chair, possibly a little ottoman, and other smaller items. Or is that second one too good of a match to pass up? Ugh! I can’t decide.
Addicted 2 Decorating is where I share my DIY and decorating journey as I remodel and decorate the 1948 fixer upper that my husband, Matt, and I bought in 2013. Matt has M.S. and is unable to do physical work, so I do the majority of the work on the house by myself. You can learn more about me here.
I love rug 2. Not matchy matchy to me after every thing will be done.
I wold go with #2. The colors and brightness is great for bedroom. I think #3 is to dark.
#2 is perfect
Rug #2 is much prettier! The third one is blah and so grey. I say go with #2!
Your comment on the third rug, “I think I could make it work” says everything to me. Go for the second rug! It’s not too “matchy matchy” especially since the largest medallion will be under the bed. You LOVE color, but as you said, the colors are “more subdued, calmer, and earthy”. I think the motif in the second rug will repeat the pattern in the drapery nicely without overwhelming it. That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it.
I also love number two. Is there somewhere else in the house you could use number three and then if a year after the bedroom was done you could swap the rugs if you didn’t love number two in the room. I love the drape material and it won’t be matchy matchy in my opinion. But I do love color and this is going to be a beautiful bedroom when you finish.
Rug #2 is my personal favorite. I can see how it seems matchy-matchy, especially with the medallion on the center of the rug, but like you said, that’ll be hidden under the bed. The parts that will be visible seem far less matchy-matchy and complement the other fabrics very nicely, and just feel more like your overall style.
I really like #2! I like that the pattern is clearer and I think it goes beautifully with the other fabrics without matching exactly. Can’t wait to see what you choose!
It’s obviously your choice, and maybe it looks different in person, but the third one doesn’t photograph very well. It just looks kinda dingy and dirty. Granted, it’d hide dog hair fantastically, so there’s that, but … 🤷♀️ The 2nd is by far the prettiest of the three (IMHO). ☺️
Just wanted to let you know, I tried using your affiliated links and they are not working. I like both #2 and #3. I think if you were to change colors in this room #3 might be a better choice because it is more neutral.
I would definitely choose #2 — it matches well with the future walls and fabric and has a bit of liveliness without being in your face. #3 is just… boring.
#2….definitely.
From the pictures, #2 seems like the best choice for a complementary rug.
Rug #2.
Rug #3 looks dirty and someone has had a bad attempt at cleaning it. No to Rug #1!!
I agree! The third option looks too earthy/ dirty compared to number two.
I like rug 2, and you should follow your gut instinct. If you didn’t like drab before, you most likely will be dissatisfied now if you go with drab. As you said, go with what you really like and use your other options to add or take away until you are really happy with your choices. Be true to yourself!
I vote for #2. Absolutely!
I think this statement says it all: “But I’ve tried earthy, subdued choices in the past and regretted them.” If you were one of my friends and we were out shopping, I would remind you of this before you purchased something subdued.
#2 gets my vote. As you say, the medallion will be under the bed.
I’m on Team Rug #2! I feel like #3 just looks gray and a little blah compared to #2. I’ve seen the rugs with no pile (have seen them super inexpensive on sites like Temu) and have been hesitant to order them. I’m interested in your opinion on the quality and durability. I realize it won’t compare to a good wool rug but don’t want edges fraying quickly from walking on the rug.
#2. The medallions are too similar, but they will be under the bed. The third one is beautiful but is so earthy it looks dirty with your more clear colors.
I prefer rug #3 as the pattern isn’t duplicating the motif like in rug #2. I know a nod is nice, but it’s just too similar and overpowering in total.
Kristi,
I have followed you from the condo days. And you said it, “I need color!” I love your guest room, but I always thought where is that shot of color? If this is your forever bedroom, maybe reconsider your choices? I see a velvety multi- striped headboard with a colorful antiquity rug. The teal grass paper stays! You are a wizard when it comes to design and decorating. However, this room strongly reminds me of your first attempt at the living room. My opinion, prove me wrong!😊
#3 looks soft and silky. That would be my first choice.
Most of the rug is under the bed. I like the understated #3–if it were a living room, I would think differently because more of the rug will be showing.
I prefer rug #2. I think your concerns about it being too matchy with the curtain fabric are misplaced – and more so because the medallion portion will be hidden under the bed.
I really don’t like #3 at all. I think it is very muddy (granted it may appear better in real life) but it just doesn’t do anything for me.
I’m going to be the outlier here and say none of the above. the colors in the drapery fabric feel crisp and the rugs seem distressed and worn which i know is the current trend in rugs but it feels like a mismatch in the overall feel for this room based on your inspiration images and furniture style.
Something stood out to me in the image of the fabric hanging with the colorful walls behind it. I know you love the drapery fabric but something about it gives off 2010’s vibes and feels like a step back in your style evolution since you’ve been living in lighter and brighter colors with the latest rooms you’ve designed. I think my suggestion might be to change the drapery fabric.
Considering the 3 rugs you have any the moment I would say rug 2 would be best in your room but it seems as if you are not totally convinced about either rug. I think you should look some more and find a rug you really like. Don’t settle.
Two things:
1. I don’t understand rugs like this at all. They look old and worn out and I don’t understand the appeal. I’m sure this is a “me” thing but I sure seem to be an outlier. LOL
2. Why buy a big rug to put it under the bed? Why not put runners next to the bed? I don’t understand buying a rug to cover it up with a bed. I just don’t get it.
You don’t owe me any answers. I would like to “get it” though. Perhaps some of the followers here can help me understand.
I agree. At least the way they photograph, they look worn and dirty from the get-go.
Me too Yvonne. All 3 rugs look drab and dirty to me. I would love to see a rug with more color in it. Something with a teal base to it and other colors interspersed. The “non-colors” in these 3 rugs just don’t do anything but look dingy. I also prefer washable runners and rugs because you can never really get them clean with a vacuum or a floor scrubber. Let somebody puke or get diarrhea and then you have an expensive mess to clean up. (Sorry, channeling my past experiences in clinical nursing!)
Yes, but lots of people are buying these. When I have shopped for rugs myself, these are the types of rugs I have to sift through to find one that looks like a truly new rug. I don’t understand why they sell and the general population buys them.
As regards the cleanliness, yes totally those inevitable bodily fluids that happen. I can’t imagine trying to extricate a rug from under our king-size bed to get it cleaned.
Add in the fact that large rugs are more expensive than runners. Why spend the $$ on a rug that is 80% covered by furniture? I just don’t get it. 🙂
To each their own, I just like to understand the logic behind the decisions.
I believe some designer(s) started promoting second hand rugs that are hand-made, silk or other expensive materials, and are naturally worn because they are very old. This prompted the manufacturers to produce imitations of old worn rugs. I personally don’t get it either. Neither the original old worn to the extend of falling apart rugs, or the imitations.
Regarding the rug under bed, maybe it is easier for a wheelchair to move around the bedroom if there is one big rug vs runners?
Ah Valentina – you have a good point about the wheelchair and runners. I should have thought of that! Thanks for pointing out my blindspot. 🙂
It sounds like you’re trying to convince yourself on the 3rd one, but I think 2 will be perfect once everything is done and majority is covered by the bed. 👍🏻
I would pick #2. I generally won’t buy a rug with a medallion, but since it’s under the bed…..I think it’s PERFECT!
#2 that’s my final answer. LOL As you stated the majority will be covered by the bed. The drapes and wallpaper will be on the walls and windows so not right on top of the rug, it will be a restful room with all combined but not matchy matchy. Have a blessed day.
I hate trying to choose rugs! I agree it is difficult to pick them out online. I see colorful Kristie wanting something brighter for the rug down the line. Trying to find the right color(s) without competing patterns is tough. Not that you need more options, but I came across these: https://www.rugsusa.com/products/color-washed-floral-rug-ocean-blue?variant=47065143083064&query_id=5e49a389e748a4d4736762fab22b77c8, or https://ruggable.com/products/justina-blakeney-josephine-midnight-medium-pile-rug?size=9×12&system=rug-sys, or https://ruggable.com/products/morris-and-co-blackthorn-forest-green-rug?size=9×12&system=rug-sys, or https://ruggable.com/products/panama-teal-blue-outdoor-rug?size=9×12&system=rug-sys.
I just think the color combo of #3 is TOO similar to the old living room color scheme that you ultimately decided was too dark and drab for your liking. Something about it just doesn’t give that fresh, clean, pop-of-color look that you have been gravitating towards in the rest of your house.
You shouldn’t have to make it work. #2 is perfect, IMO.
I like rug #2 best, for what it’s worth!
The second one doesn’t look matchy to me at all, just coordinated. I don’t think the third one looks as good.
After reading other comments, I’ll add that I’m not sure #2 is perfect. It’s just far and away the best of the 3 here.
Everything that needs to be said is in this one statement, “I think I could make this work.” Mmmm … maybe not the right piece when it gets this treatment. Isn’t no rug better than a compromise until the right one comes along?
#2
The 2nd one looks amazing!!!
I like number 2!!!!!
#2 absolutely! #3 is just not in your wheelhouse!
Hard to know. I am still in the hospital so it is hard to tell. Hard to type too.
I hope you are well and home soon!
#2 Definitely. Not too matchy matchy.
#3 No. It looks too drab, imo.
I like #2 the best
I REALLY REALLY like the second one. Even if you’re only seeing the sides. I don’t think you’d be happy with “plain jane” number 3. 😁😁
I agree Linda.
I love no 2. So do you Kristi, go on admit it. It’s in your genes. Just look at those walls in the gym. You love colour and it looks gorgeous with the two fabrics.
Rug 2, absolutely.
If it were me, I would go with rug #2. It’s so much brighter and the colors work, at least in the photo. Also in the photo for rug #3, the colors work but the rug looks dull and boring, which is definitely not you. It’s hard to really tell just how well rugs look by just looking at photos which can distort color and pattern. I have no doubt that you will make the right decision for you.
Since the part that matches, the fabric is the medallion that will be hidden under the bed, you’ll be left with is the light bright coordinating edges which are absolutely stunning. The first one and the third one to meet are so drab, they look like they’ve been hanging around for a long time. Number two gets my vote.
Sorry, to me those rugs are muddy. None look like something you would choose.
I love the #2 rug. I think the fact that there will be white wainscoting and the drapes/curtains won’t be flat but will be pleated (like your curtains on your French doors) so the medallion won’t be seen so clearly, just the colors. I do think this rug will also look better with the bathroom colors. But I am only seeing on a computer screen and you are seeing it in person.
Hi Kristi. You state that with the third rug you “could make it work”.
Why do you have to work at making it work? The second rug you liked at once when you saw the drapery material with the border. The phrase “make it work” just doesn’t sit right with me. Don’t be in too much of a hurry now. As you work your room you may make changes.
But do enjoy this process as you continue. That’s when you’re at your best.
God bless.
Why are you looking a gift horse in the mouth? #2 is a gift!
#3 looks dirty and your look is much more clean. Gray is not your friend.
I’m not a fan of any of them because I don’t think they look like your style of clear and well-defined colors. Hiding a medallion under the bed? But you will know it is there and it will irk you. And also, “making it work” is not a good plan. As an aside, I don’t understand the fad of the pseudo-aged/worn Oriental style rug. Real ones have better colors and, even when quite old, never wear looking like those do. But that’s just me.
Totally agree on the fad of the pseudo-aged/worn Oriental style rug – I don’t get that either. You are not alone!
Yeah me too. I 💛💛 the real thing. I grew up around them.
Completely agree with your comment Judy.
Depends on if you want the rug to be a quieter moment in a room with plenty of other things to look at, or if you like the bedroom rug to be one of the wow pieces! I like 2 myself.
Kristi, in the future you can order a small size of the rugs to test out and see in person what you want to buy full size- I have found this is way easier with returns and not manhandling large heavy rugs back into packaging and the ups store. Yes the scale of the pattern is enlarged, but a 5×7 or even smaller still gives you enough of an idea!
Kristi, where are the stripes in your future bedroom? I personally would keep looking for a rug.
I have to say both directions feel wrong to me… 😉 I believe the rug needs to pick up the cream-golden-yellow-greenish from the curtains to balance out the darker elements in the room.
Now that you’ve decided on a dark teal headboard, isn’t it time to do a mockup/moodboard again with all the elements? I think it would be very helpful to see the curtains, grasscloth and headboard together with the floor and wainscoting (or maybe I’m mistaken about wainscoting?) – much easier to see what rug would complete the picture.
I say keep looking! These are so drab and dingy looking. There are literally thousands of rugs out there, and you have plenty of time, so why settle now?
I like rug three. But in reading your commentary…I think you appreciate rug three as a good design option. But you really seem to like two better. Go with the one that you like best. You’ll be happier in the long run.
What about a more solid rug with a tone on tone pattern like these?
https://www.rugsusa.com/products/starke-broken-stripe-wool-rug-hunter-green?variant=49643110793510
https://www.rugsusa.com/products/southwest-striped-wool-rug-green?variant=49643117445414fa51a39ee3d20b82d3ac942fb85ad4eb
If the colors blend then these would add some movement and texture while letting your wallpaper, curtains and headboard stand out!
Personally, I like rug 2 – you seem like you want light and bright, but you do you 😉
My question is – why are so many new rugs being sold now look old, worn, and dirty on purpose? I ran across this issue looking for a rug for our dining room a few years ago. I don’t get it.
When I was considering rugs for my bedroom I would order the smallest size it came in. I would use it as a sample. It’s much easier to return that a room sized rug.
I think #2 is an absolute stunner in all ways. It complements the teal and the drapery but doesn’t boss them around. I wouldn’t call it “matchy” at all because you have so many other colors as well. #3 looks to me like someone dipped bleach into the dye vat and mixed it around. Those muted dusky types of rugs do not appeal to me at all and I think we will look back at them in 10 years and say “What were we thinking?”