As the trend continues towards wood and tile floors accented with oriental rugs, the first step in decorating a room is selecting the rug. It grounds the room and allows colors to be lifted from the rug onto the upholstery, pillows, draperies and walls, creating a balanced interior.

Keep in mind that it is much easier to coordinate a fabric with a rug than the other way around. There are thousands if not millions of fabrics to choose from and although there are many styles and designs of handmade rugs, the colors are more limited. This is especially true of natural-dyed oriental rugs, which are becoming the most sought after rugs being woven today.

Size is another consideration. A decision must be made whether to purchase a large size which places the furniture entirely on the rug or choose several smaller sizes, allowing the furniture to frame the rugs. The decision on size is a matter of personal taste but you should consider the fact that larger carpets are not as versatile as smaller ones and can cost more per square foot. If at some point you choose to redecorate, renovate or move, smaller oriental rugs are much easier to relocate. Most oriental rug stores will allow rugs to be taken on approval for a short period of time so if you are unsure about size, try several.

The notion, promoted by some dealers, that all oriental rugs can be traded back or easily resold is often inaccurate. Practice safe rug buying. Choose rug dealers carefully!

The idea that oriental rugs work only in traditional settings is also absolutely false. At the present time there is an enormous selection of new handmade rugs which can be used in any type of interior, including any “modern” setting. Rugs are works of art and there are some very creative rug producers making exceptionally beautiful oriental carpets that compliment the diverse styles of interior designs seen in magazines today.