Wall-to-wall carpeting is losing some of its magic to area rugs as homeowners are finding ways to add flare and function to the floors in their homes.

Since hardwood flooring is used more often than carpeting on homes' main levels, many homeowners are turning to area rugs to add dimension, warmth and personality.

Area rugs are a great way to protect hardwood in high traffic areas, but the result doesn't have to be just functional. New patterns, styles, weaving methods and materials are opening doors for homeowners to create a look that is individual and decorative.

"Area rugs offer softness, warmth, and sound absorption on hard flooring surfaces," said Meredith Ericksen of Tuscan Blue Design of Frederick. "Using the proper pad, an area rug can go on top of any kind of flooring. Bare feet walking down a hallway will welcome the addition of a hallway runner. Also, area rugs are a great way to define the space within an open floor plan, create a conversation area, designate an eating space."

Traditionally, area rugs were made from wool or cotton and hand-loomed. Now, computers can make complicated patterns, and synthetic fibers such as nylon, acrylic and polypropylene have added durability to rugs.

"The area rug industry has exploded over the last 15 years. You can really get a good quality product that is machine-made due to the advent of computers. Nylon or polypropylene offer contemporary looks and a lot are available at mid or low price ranges," said Sara Fretwell of SJF Interiors in Frederick.

Rugs made from acrylic are highly resistant to sunlight, stains and mildew, and are often used as bath mats. Polypropylene rugs are made with the most stain-resistant synthetic fibers and even repel water. Nylon is a good choice for heavy foot traffic due to its durability. Natural fibers such as wool offer durability and softness, and have traditionally been the hallmark of a well-made carpet. Cotton is less durable than wool, but offers a softer feel. Jute rugs should be used in a room away from direct sunlight because it can darken or lighten as an effect of exposure. Sisal, while limited in its dyeabilty, is the most durable natural-fiber rug.

Rugs range in price from $10 to $12 a square foot to more than $100 a square foot depending on material and style. Choosing a rug material and style requires an understanding of the purpose for the rug.

Remember design elements

Ericksen suggests thinking about four design elements Ñ size/shape, color, pattern and design -- when deciding on an area rug.

"Pattern is one of the most helpful elements in narrowing down your rug choice. Before setting out to look at rugs, decide if you want a curvilinear, geometric or pictorial pattern," she said.
When choosing design, it is best to determine how much of the rug is going to be visible.

"An all-over style, where the pattern is spread throughout the rug, works well in a dining room where much of the rug will be covered by furniture," Ericksen said. "On the other hand, a medallion pattern, a rug that has a large centerpiece as the focal point of the design, might work nicely in a room with no furniture, such as a foyer or in front of a fireplace."