Tinaye Agere
PLACING a rug in the kitchen can add extra colour, pattern and texture to your space. Adding a rug to your kitchen will bring warmth to the space and can tie your decor together. There is a lot of controversy surrounding kitchen rugs, with concerns about practicality, hygiene and safety. But if you opt for a washable rug and use a floor-gripping rug pad, there is no reason not to throw down a runner.
Create a colour scheme
Fill a large expanse of floor space with a patterned rug that ties the kitchen scheme together. Draw on colour, pattern and texture to guide your rug choice and create a cohesive look. If it is time for a kitchen refresh, let a fabulous rug inspire your cabinet colours or tile choices. Use an underlay underneath the rug to prevent slipping and tripping.
Use a hard-wearing runner
Kitchen rugs should be able to withstand the high-traffic area. Materials like wool, sisal and jute are hard-wearing natural fibres that are both practical and will easily complement a rustic kitchen. They are favoured for their natural resistance to staining and crushing, making them an excellent low-maintenance option for a kitchen environment. Natural fibres have the added benefit of being more sustainable than synthetic materials.
Define an open-plan space
As well as lending aesthetic appeal, rugs are a valuable tool for zoning areas in an open-plan kitchen. For instance, a rug under a kitchen island establishes a central focal point in the kitchen, breaking up the large expanse of floor. Use the same approach to define a dining or seating area.
Create a lived-in look
A vintage rug is a simple way of instantly creating an inviting, lived-in feel and achieving that “always been there” look. Persian-style runners come in rich colours and interesting designs that add warmth and character to modern kitchens. They also do a great job at livening up narrow galley kitchens.
Protect the kitchen triangle
If you are not up to speed, the kitchen triangle refers to the busy route used to access the sink, the stove and the fridge.
Positioning a rug in this zone is a tactical move to protect your hard floor from higher levels of wear compared to other areas of the kitchen. A hardwearing, stain-resistant rug or runner with a short pile is a must here, as they are less likely to trap dirt.
Go dark and moody
Dark-coloured or patterned rugs are the way to go if your home is subject to more spills than most. Darker shades and lively patterns help to hide dirt and marks, so you do not have to worry about muddy paws, kids’ snack time or clumsy housemates. Plus, moody kitchens are among this year’s hottest design trends. — Wires
Opt for classic stripes
Stripes are — and will always be — timeless. Classic and simple, a striped rug adds texture and rhythm to the space. Its versatility means there is a stripe for every kitchen style. The wide symmetrical stripes suit this contemporary kitchen aesthetic. Thinner stripes tend to complement a more traditional style.
Keep it neutral
If you are not convinced by pattern, opt for something neutral and let the weave add interest and texture. Neutral rugs are soothing and can lend a subtle layer of warmth to the kitchen. If you opt for a light-coloured rug, make sure it is stain-resistant and machine washable, so you will be protected against accidental spills and muddy feet or paws.
Hide floor damage
If it is too late to protect your floor from the wear and tear of everyday kitchen antics, rugs are a fantastic disguise for a stained, damaged or outdated floor. Look for a rug that suits the size and shape of the floor you want to conceal.
Add a pop of colour
Inject a monochrome kitchen with soul from the floor up with a colourful rug. Crisp white cabinets and stainless steel countertops can quickly look stark and industrial. A rug is a great way of bringing colour and texture to the space, creating depth, drama and an overall homey vibe. Introduce other pops of the same colour with appliances, crockery or other kitchen accessories. — Wires
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