Does Your Rug Have to Match Your Wall Art? - Beija Flor Answers

Does Your Rug Have to Match Your Wall Art?

Your rug should not compete with your wall art for visual impact, rather the two should balance and enhance each other. Read about how to get the balance right.

Photo of Marie-Claire de Villiers
By Marie-Claire de Villiers
Head and shoulders photo of Michelle Meyer
Edited by Michelle Meyer

Updated February 24, 2023.

Your wall art makes a statement because it is typically at eye level, whereas a rug makes a secondary visual statement in the background.

While it is not necessary for your wall art and rug to match, if they do, they can contribute to the room's theme. You can highlight color in the artwork with the rug, or create an atmosphere by coordinating their styles. Examples include pairing a classical painting with a traditional floral rug or showcasing an abstract painting or black-and-white photograph with an abstract, bold rug.

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How to Match Rugs and Wall Art

Our experts have 3 full-proof strategies that you can implement to match your rugs with your wall art. The secret is in making the following considerations:

1. Does Your Rug Carry More Weight as a Visual Element

Your rug has a larger surface area than most paintings or graphics. However, it's a good idea to start with the art before deciding on the rug, because the art may be a larger financial investment or a special personal photograph.

» Need guidance to spice up your living room? See how to do it with wall art 

2. Consider the Colors

One should begin by identifying the most striking colors in the artwork, and then move on to the more subtle colors. You can choose a rug with muted tones that echo the artwork, or you can go for a rug that is more daring and match the artwork's vibrant tones. Using two or more primary colors in a single space may be too much, but in a larger or medium-sized room, it could work.

3. Balance the Patterns

Contrast a boldly colored or intricately patterned rug with more subdued wall decor. Only one location can boast such visual activity!

Balancing Your Rug and Your Wall Art

There is no hard and fast rule that your rug must match your wall art. The decision to coordinate or contrast these elements of your decor is a matter of personal preference and style. While some people may prefer a cohesive look where the rug and wall art share similar colors or patterns, others may choose to intentionally create a sense of contrast and visual interest by combining different textures and hues. Ultimately, the key is to create a harmonious and balanced space that reflects your personality and tastes.

» Ready to find the right rug to match your wall art? See the unique collection from Beija Flor