Layered Rugs 101: My Trick for Cozy, Collected Spaces
Hey friends, Jess here! Let’s talk about one of my favorite styling secrets—layering rugs. It’s such a simple move, but it makes a room feel cozy, collected, and full of personality. Whether you're working with a tight budget, odd room dimensions, or just want to add more texture, this trick works in so many scenarios. Here’s how I like to do it:
Start With a Neutral Base Rug
I almost always begin with a large, neutral rug as the foundation. Think jute, sisal, or a simple flatweave. It helps define the space and gives your statement rug something to sit on. Bonus: it’s usually much more affordable than buying one massive patterned rug!Add a Bold or Textured Rug on Top
Now for the fun part! I’ll layer a smaller rug with color, pattern, or rich texture on top of the base. This is where you can get creative—Moroccan styles, vintage finds, or soft shag rugs all work beautifully. Center it where you want attention: under a coffee table, at the foot of a bed, or in a cozy reading nook.Mix Textures and Patterns Thoughtfully
To keep things feeling cohesive, I like to mix texture and scale. If the base is rough and chunky (like jute), the top rug should be softer and finer. If one rug has a busy pattern, keep the other simple. It’s all about balance!Anchor the Layers With Furniture
A layered rug moment looks best when it's anchored by furniture. Try placing a coffee table or accent chairs so they connect both rugs. This makes it feel intentional rather than like one rug is just randomly floating.Play With Placement
Don’t be afraid to offset the top rug slightly to one side, or angle it just a bit. It adds that relaxed, designer-y feel that makes the space feel lived-in and effortless.
Layering rugs is one of those small design choices that makes a big impact. If you're not sure which sizes or styles to use, head over to my LTK—I’m always linking my favorite rug combos from budget-friendly spots like Target, Amazon, and more. Happy layering!