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Good Questions: Help Choose Pattern for Area Rug!

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Hi, I am in the process of choosing an area rug for the living room and I am having a tough time deciding between these two swatches. All I have in that room is the TV and this sectional. Once I pick the rug I will need to find a good coffee table that goes with all of it. This space is part of an open first floor where we have the kitchen and the casual dining area. We live close to the beach and there is a gorgeous view from these big windows. Thank you for your help! Rali

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Comments (57)

The zigzag is a little too retro. When paired with that couch, it would make the whole room look a bit dated.

posted by JH4285 on January 16th 2009 at 11:37am
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I have the Moroccan rug, so I do love it, but in your apartment I like the way the zigzag picks up the grey colours in your sofa and blends it with the floor tones. I also think the zigzag pattern goes better with the style of the sofa. Here's a pic of the Moroccan rug in our den (in progress) if you'd like to see it: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4571607&l=91fd0&id=803190345

posted by scrappyTO on January 16th 2009 at 11:38am
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The couch has a kind of dated look to it, and the zaggy rug says "70s". Together I think they are not the look you want. :-)

posted by kimg924 on January 16th 2009 at 11:40am
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Agree with above. Zig zag too dated!

posted by nazrd on January 16th 2009 at 11:42am
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Neither!

That couch is so bulky, I would do something a little simpler and less contrasty, even if there is a print.

HTTP:??WWW.DUSKIN-NY.BLOGSPOT.COM

posted by DUSKIN on January 16th 2009 at 11:43am
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Personally, I wouldn't pick either. While I think both rugs are fantastic, I think that both of them will be very bland with that sofa. Your kitchen is gorgeous but there is a lack of any color in your dining room and living room. If you can't get a new sofa, I would try a different rug. Something that has a little color.

posted by Jmack1 on January 16th 2009 at 11:43am
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zzzzzzzzzzz find something with color. Everything is neautral.

posted by saltylibrarian on January 16th 2009 at 11:44am
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Moroccan. i think the tones on the other rug wash out your place a lil too much. i think the darker of the two will balance well with your kitchen chairs and kitchen in general. :)

posted by deeboyayay on January 16th 2009 at 11:53am
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The choices above lack vibrancy. Everything else is neutral. Choose something with color.

posted by STYLeyes on January 16th 2009 at 12:00pm
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moroccan because the other one is fugly

posted by jmorey on January 16th 2009 at 12:01pm
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My gut says the geometric rug; however, that pattern is so trendy it might look dated in the near future. Maybe something with some colour instead?

posted by PrettyKitty on January 16th 2009 at 12:08pm
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I like the colors of option B but the print of option A, which really doesn't help you I'm afraid...

posted by Tabitha (From Single to Married) on January 16th 2009 at 12:12pm
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Color is your friend; use some.

posted by hejiranyc on January 16th 2009 at 12:14pm
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moroccan but add some COLOR!!! Cheerful reds and oranges and yellows would go a long way, or maybe turquoise and teal and bright green if you're going for a beachier look. You need colorful toss pillows, blankets, art, glass, etc. Maybe throw in a bright tuquoise coffee table to brighten up the room and go from there?

posted by JulesDC on January 16th 2009 at 12:22pm
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Option A... think the ziz-zag would be too busy unless there is a chunky, solid coffee table on top.

posted by Benjy on January 16th 2009 at 12:23pm
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I like the maroccan. And I like the natural colours of your interior. You can add some colour spots with pictures, pillows, plants, curtains...

posted by tequila on January 16th 2009 at 12:23pm
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I think the Moroccan will be dated, shortly. The zigzag is less trendy.

posted by tenderleaf on January 16th 2009 at 12:26pm
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I like the zig zaggy one a lot. I've seen the other one in far too many other homes. Don't listen to what other people are saying about your other decor, it's looks like you're in a transitional period right now, and there is NOTHING wrong with neutrals!! They can be so relaxing.

posted by cassielynn on January 16th 2009 at 12:26pm
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The zigzag to me screams trendy retro, and I think you'll get sick of it faster. It will also really define the rest of your decor. The simple geometric design of the moroccan rug is a bit more classic (and really, there's not much 'moroccan' about it), and will be easier to work with over time.

While I agree that the room needs some color, I don't think the rug is necessarily the best place to do this. Area rugs are quite expensive-- not something you'd replace on a whim when you get sick of the color. If you're confident in your style, go for it, but I have the feeling you'll want the ability to play around with your decor for a while. Add some great accent pieces for bright pops of color. A bright runner on the dining table, a few throw pillows, some art on the walls, and a couple plants will do wonders.

posted by foodefafa on January 16th 2009 at 12:38pm
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I put " other " just because I think adding some color to the room would brightin things up and make if feel a bit warmer ... rugs and pillows are a great way to add some color . If you do decide to go with the Moroccan rug , please don't buy Pottery Barn's version ( I have the yellow one in my living room and it sheds like nothing else ... it's like I have a yellow haired dog in my home now ... those fibers could travel for miles -lol- ) Even one of these might work http://www.homedecorators.com/detail.php?parentid=71815&aid=froogle&CAWELAID=297330773

posted by Fashionably_True on January 16th 2009 at 12:38pm
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I prefer the Moroccan pattern; both trendy and classic, but can you get it in different colors? Else choose something else altogether.

posted by newleaf on January 16th 2009 at 12:46pm
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Moroccan for certain.

posted by medusa12120 on January 16th 2009 at 12:47pm
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I went with A. Even though it might be a bit more trendy I think the pattern itself is quite classic and the simplicity will add longevity. The zig-zag almost has that Missoni look, but not quite. The colours I find are too dated and blend in too much with your sofa. I don't agree with a big bright rug. Good rugs are expensive and personally, I would rather have one that is more versatile colour-wise if you decide to change your decor. You can always add colour through accessories, art, etc. (says she who is sick of her boyfriend's bright red sofas)

posted by canadian in swedish clothing on January 16th 2009 at 12:48pm
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I agree there needs to be some color, and I agree with foodefafa that the color needs to be elsewhere other than the rug. I think you could do wonders with accent colors in throw pillows, table runners, art on the wall, curtains, decorations above the kitchen cabinets, etc.

That's the great thing about basic neutral colors on large objects. Then down the road when you are tired of the accent color, you don't have to make large purchases to change your space. But then again I'm one to wear solid colors and simple patterns and dress it up with accessories.....

posted by kambykitten on January 16th 2009 at 12:49pm
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I like the Moroccan pattern. Where did you get the Moroccan rug by the way?

posted by Mimi_nyc on January 16th 2009 at 12:50pm
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Neither - They're both drab and dull, and all you have in your space is Brown, Brown, Beige and More Brown...

What you need is color - I'd choose something predominantly Red to energize your space.

posted by bepsf on January 16th 2009 at 12:51pm
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Go with A! This design has more lasting power than the zig-zag print. I think the darker tone of the geometric will look lovely with the natural toned sofa, and give you the ability to change accent colors easily. The Moroccan is a bit trendy now, but because of it's relative simplicity, will have more lasting power than its competitor.

You have a gorgeous home!

posted by julieleanne on January 16th 2009 at 12:52pm
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I like B, but I think I agree with the very first comment- this particular sofa paired with that particular rug makes both look a bit dated. I would go with A.

posted by insanity_pepper on January 16th 2009 at 12:57pm
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I would pick the zigzag. I think the colors match your sofa a bit better and I like the retro vibe it creates.

posted by jfinteriors on January 16th 2009 at 1:01pm
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Do we have to chose between A and B? Because honestly, you might be having a hard time choosing because NEITHER really seems to work. The colors and patterns together just seem all wrong with the sofa - too washed out, yet too busy at the same time.

Besides the poinsetta in the photos there seems to be a whole beige/gray world color things going on that makes everything look really washed out and kind of sad. Adding a similar colored rug to the mix is only going to worsen things. I agree strongly with bepsf, get some color in there PRONTO. Red would work, but Orange, rust or hell anything with some COLOR would do it.

That said, the Moroccan patterned rug in an orange color (I think they have them at Pottery Barn or West Elm) on sale right now, and some colored pillows and a throw on that sofa would be a huge improvement.

posted by Lizzy C on January 16th 2009 at 1:05pm
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First things that comes to mind is "beige palace". Listen to hejiranyc - color is your friend! I like both rug patterns, but you need some color.

I just ordered a rug from Rugs USA, based on this post from AT http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/sf/rugs-carpets/rugs-for-every-price-range-no-really-074069 Free shipping, and I can't believe I got a wool, 5 x 8 rug for only $120. Keep shopping.

posted by leely16 on January 16th 2009 at 1:12pm
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Looks like I'm in the minority but I'm gravitating towards option B, the zig zag. It looks Missoni-inspired.

posted by allijean on January 16th 2009 at 1:23pm
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i like the sectional and would choose the zig zag patterned rug. as everyone has said, you do need color. some pillows with some muted blues and greens (again, the ocean), and some interesting art might help. also, you might want to get a few large potted plants to bring nature inside. i'd avoid getting a coffee table, when you have that big ottoman. i'd probably find a cool tray to use on the ottoman, instead. don't forget window treatments, which is also a great way to bring in color. i think colorful sheers would look great.

posted by kahlil19107 on January 16th 2009 at 1:25pm
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A looks heaps better with that sofa, B makes both look dated for some reason. I agree with the above comments, the whole place would benefit from some colourful accessories to bring it to life.

I think it's going to be gorgeous once it's finished and already looks pretty stunning!

posted by littleinkpot on January 16th 2009 at 1:31pm
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B for sure - the moroccan one is nice but too sedate especially with the style of your couch!

posted by unvacuous on January 16th 2009 at 1:48pm
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i vote for a new sofa!

posted by tifacola on January 16th 2009 at 1:48pm
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i agree that you should try to pick something with a bit more color in it. i like the pattern of A though. but does it come in a more vibrant color at all?

posted by terka27 on January 16th 2009 at 1:53pm
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I LIKE the couch! It looks comfy and I like the color. But I do agree with most commenters that the moroccan style-rug is the way to go, but can you get it in a different color? Deep blue or reds?

posted by ange_lune on January 16th 2009 at 2:17pm
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You could do a fun color, this orange and cream rug is safe and has some color and pattern-
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20119215
Then mix up some throw pillows with brown and cream and some with orange and cream.
or something raspberry would look great-
http://www.madelineweinrib.com/ama/cotton_flatweaves/Index2.html
this red one is great-
http://www.madelineweinrib.com/ama/cotton_flatweaves/27-Chi-Chi-Kari-Red.html
These would be your pop of color in the room, then art would be the next layer if color pop.

Or Flor Tiles in a Neutral
http://www.flor.com/service/flor/shop/item/Lamb-Cord/P005002500-P00151.html

http://www.flor.com/service/flor/shop/item/On-The-Lamb/6042700405-604271.html

Play on the neutrals, get a dark wood table, get rid of the ottoman. Then paint that wall behind the sofa a rich deep color- deep midnight blue or deep rich ox blood red, add an interesting lounge chair in a deep rich brown fabric...
This
look
-http://www.dominomag.com/galleries/rooms/livingdining/livingroom/warmmodern?slide=3

posted by LoriSF on January 16th 2009 at 2:55pm
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I also gravitate to the zigzag. The Morroccan is everywhere now, it's getting sort of dull.

That said, I wouldn't really get teh zigzag either, because, like the others have suggested, I really think you need some color. Even just a little.

posted by ejbrammer on January 16th 2009 at 3:32pm
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I love the moorish tile rug from PB. I don't care if it is trendy or played out. I have it in my dining room. See what a pop of colour can do? http://www.flickr.com/photos/snoopy126/3134816876/in/photostream/

I think going with brown might be too drab. It came in orange and yellow and I think the yellow is a great neutral too. Once you have a coffee table on it you will love it.

posted by snoopy on January 16th 2009 at 3:42pm
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Different strokes, for different folks, I guess. I think the moroccan is awful. Really awful. The zigzag is ok.

posted by jyw on January 16th 2009 at 3:53pm
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I vote zig-zag (chevrons?). I think people who believe it looks 70's were babies in the 70's -- because it sure doesn't look it to me and I was an adult then.

The moroccan pattern is too contrasty -- I don't like the way it feels in the room -- but then again, it's YOUR room!

posted by SherryBinNH on January 16th 2009 at 4:07pm
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What about something from Room and Board:

Willow (in Ink): http://www.roomandboard.com/rnb/product/detail.do?productGroup=20276&menuCatalog=room&menuSubcategory=201189

Brocade:
http://www.roomandboard.com/rnb/product/detail.do?productGroup=19139&menuCatalog=room&menuSubcategory=201189

Capri:
http://www.roomandboard.com/rnb/product/detail.do?productGroup=19159&menuCatalog=room&menuSubcategory=201189

I like the monochrome/neutral approach to a room but I don't think either of those rugs are optimal.

posted by JenPDX on January 16th 2009 at 5:36pm
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neither neither neither.

color. color. color

posted by iacoli on January 16th 2009 at 6:12pm
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none.
i'll choose a bright color.

posted by Vicadin on January 16th 2009 at 9:11pm
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Great couch! I'd go for the zig-zag "Missoni" styled rug as allijean compared it to. So many responses are totally ignoring your options of A or B. Go with B! It picks up the grey in the couch. It looks as though you LIKE the neutrals, and thats fine. Your place looks great, and I think the zig-zag rug will enhance it.

posted by mischief7 on January 16th 2009 at 10:39pm
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A

posted by ehy2k on January 16th 2009 at 11:03pm
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The first one - Moroccan geometric print. Contrasts well against the sofa and will sit well with the rest of your furniture pieces - giving the lounge area more of a wow impact. That whole "minimalist eclectic" look comes to mind, pair it back with a white lacquer coffee table to pull the look together! (While I love the zig-zag print, it washes the sofa out too much and as a whole will look dated).

posted by designerme on January 17th 2009 at 1:15am
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I voted for the moroccan. BUT I do think that it's too brwon to be against that floor. Too much blah! Or at least the couch needs some throw pillows or something.

Choosing a rug is hard.

Zigzag would be more practical, it wouldn't show dirt so well. (I know I have a -wall-to-wall dark burgundy solid carpet in my bedroom and whenever I vacuum, it looks just as horrible as it did pre-vacuuming...after 15 mins.)

posted by Lilli K. on January 17th 2009 at 11:16am
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I would definitely go with option A. for the Moroccan rug. I think the zigzag rug blends in too much and I agree that it can have a 70's vibe to it. The Moroccan rug looks beautiful against your wood floors! Good luck!

posted by gatoreater3 on January 19th 2009 at 3:47pm
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You really, really, really need color somewhere.

If you're color-shy, Try green.....it's a "natural" color that fits perfectly with other "nature" colors like brown, gray, black,white,

Once you get some green going, you'll automatically start adding another color or so.

posted by ohjodi on January 19th 2009 at 6:23pm
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I don't like the zig-zag at all! Just my two cents.

Emily

posted by Emily Sneds on January 20th 2009 at 9:12am
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Honestly, I would go with a splash of color on the floor. You don't have to go crazy, but maybe something with brightly, muted colors.
For example check out rugs, that have colors like:
www.emmagardner.com

They are bright, but not crazy...a rug like this would compliment your space tremendously.

posted by mscabanilla on January 20th 2009 at 3:14pm
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Sorry, it is actually www.emmagardnerdesign.com

She also has really nice pillows, but for the price you have make them your self for about $10.

posted by mscabanilla on January 20th 2009 at 3:16pm
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I would seriously go with neither one. If you want something even vaguely Moroccan, I think you should go with a Persian carpet. Find one that has several colors in it that you love and that you'll always love. And then you can pull colors from THAT into your accessories.

Not everything needs to be neutral. Please. I beg you.

posted by Curtis on January 21st 2009 at 12:34am
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I'd put the carpet you currently have under the dining room table under the sofa, and use the new Morocco one under the dining table.

Stick to your guns with your color palette. If you end up feeling color -starved, you can easily get it with art and pillows.

Floors are gorgeous, btw.

posted by patrick (the other one) on January 21st 2009 at 12:45am
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