From Coastal to Bohemian: How to Select the Perfect Rug for Your Interior Design Style

Before shopping for a rug, it’s essential to consider what you’re trying to achieve visually, as you want the rug to feel cohesive with the rest of the space. Consider the overall ambience you want in your home. Are you drawn to relaxed coastal homes, sleek contemporary finishes, or vibrant bohemian spaces?

You can look for inspiration in magazines, online platforms like Pinterest, or even your favourite hotels and cafés to see what naturally appeals to you. Take note of the colours, textures, and patterns you gravitate towards, and gather these ideas together to create a mood board. You will see common colours or styles in this process. This visual reference will help you make confident decisions when selecting your rug. For example, if you know your style favours an eclectic, casual vibe, you can start searching for bohemian rugs. 

Your lifestyle should play a big role in the type of rug you choose. If you have children, it’s worth considering durable fibres, or even synthetic blends that can withstand everyday wear and tear. Pets can get their nails caught in loop styles, so opt for something cut-pile and easy to maintain (we’ve rounded up some good pet-friendly options.)

For busier households, flat weaves and low-pile rugs are practical because they’re easy to clean, while high-pile or plush rugs can bring an extra layer of comfort to quieter spaces. It also helps to think about the role you want your rug to play, whether you’d like it to be the standout feature of the room or a subtle background layer that ties the look together.

Coastal interiors thrive on natural textures and light, airy tones. It’s a popular interior design style in Australia, of course! Look for:

Fibres: Jute, sisal, and wool rugs that are durable and easy to maintain. Coastal style rugs often feature natural fibres. 
Colours: Soft neutrals, sandy beiges, sea blues, and crisp whites.
Patterns: Stripes for a nautical feel, or subtle woven textures for understated charm.
Bonus tip: An outdoor rug with coastal stripes can bring a playful twist to alfresco living spaces or even indoor kids play playrooms.

Contemporary interiors are versatile, so your rug can either blend in or make a bold statement. Our interpretation of modern interiors is personal and vast, so it can vary from one home to the next. Remember there’s no real rules here (but to get you started you can see our collection of modern rugs for living rooms and beyond.)

Feature or complement? Decide if you want your rug to pop or support the rest of the scheme.
Colours: Block colours make a strong impact, while hints of colour can tie your palette together.
Textures & Styles: Shag pile rugs add softness to sleek interiors, while flat weaves or minimalist designs add layers and warmth without overwhelming the scheme.
Patterns: Bold geometrics, Moroccan influences, or stripes for subtle energy.
Even in minimalist spaces, a rug adds warmth and texture, preventing the room from feeling stark.

If you’re aiming for an inviting, laid-back feel, focus on comfort and layering.

Textures: Wool or higher-pile rugs bring cosiness underfoot.
Colours: Soft, neutral tones work beautifully, especially when layered.
Approach: Don’t worry too much about matching colours or styles exactly, as harmony comes from a consistent palette, not perfection.
Style tip: Think of your rug as one of many layers that add warmth, rather than a standout feature.

Boho style celebrates individuality, colour, and character. Rugs are the perfect way to express this.

Colours & Patterns: Mix and match bold hues, traditional motifs, or intricate patterns.
Layering: Combine different rug styles, sizes, and textures; you can even layer rugs over carpet.
Fibre & Style: Moroccan rugs, shag piles, or transitional rugs with vintage-inspired patterns bring depth and authenticity.
Tip: While eclectic style thrives on contrast, choosing a few grounding colours can help create cohesion.

For timeless interiors, subtlety and quality are key.

Colours: Creams, taupes, greys, and soft neutrals exude elegance, while deeper tones like navy or charcoal can also feel refined.
Patterns: Keep it simple. Subtle designs or no pattern at all work best.
Overall feel: A classic rug should feel like an integral part of your space, not an afterthought. Focus on balance, symmetry, and polished finishes.

The perfect rug does more than complete a room; it enhances your lifestyle and reflects your personal taste. Whether your style is coastal, contemporary, casual, bohemian, or classic, the right rug choice will elevate your home, adding comfort, warmth, and undeniable character.

Where is there a rug store near me?

The Flooring Xtra rug store means you can choose a rug online and have it sent directly to you! With so many options to select from and free delivery, it’s a great way to shop.

How to clean a rug?

Rugs are like any type of flooring and require regular maintenance so they look great for longer. Each rug is different and care should be taken to ensure the correct methods are followed. Read our Rug Care Guide to learn more.

What is a pet-friendly rug?

A pet-friendly rug is a must in a home with dogs and cats! Look for attributes such as washable features, anti-stain qualities and non-loop pile fibres (for pet paws to get caught in).