The Beauty of Contrast: Traditional Rugs in Contemporary Spaces

Traditional rugs have stood the test of time. Their impeccable craftsmanship and intricate designs enrich a room’s sense of place in history. If your taste in interiors is modern and you come across a traditional rug, whether on your travels, at an antiques shop or in the family treasure trove, don’t disregard using it in your modern design scheme; another reason for their lasting appeal is their versatility. Here are some examples of how to make a traditional work in a nontraditional room.

Double up. Two smaller traditional rugs in contrasting colors are laid side by side here to create a larger rug with an interesting modern twist.

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Provide a light foundation for dark colors. A shaggy off-white Berber rug provides a counterbalance to the glossy deep blue walls here.


Repeat colors. Here the warm colors of the rug are repeated in the pillows, artwork and leather daybed, tying the space together.



Be light and subtle. The subtle pattern and light colors of this rug blend seamlessly with the furnishings of this airy modern space.



Introduce pattern to minimalism. A traditional rug adds a touch of pattern while picking up the subtle shades of the furniture in this austere and mostly white space.



Be bright and playful. A brightly colored kilim rug adds a touch of fun and cheerfulness to this contemporary living room.


Create a bold color palette. The strong graphics and colors of this kilim rug are an inspiration for the solid blocks of bold colors elsewhere.

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Create a sophisticated color palette. The color palette of this traditional rug provides the inspiration for the sophisticated use of color in the furnishings.



Go deep. In this space with light walls and a light floor, an unexpectedly deep blue traditional rug creates dramatic contrast.



Be neutral. Rather than compete with the massive sculptural stone table, the neutral-colored rug provides a subtle patterned background.

More: 11 Area Rug Rules and How to Break Them

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