Visualize the desired total look of the room. Consider how the room is used, how much traffic the area gets and who will view it under what light. For high-traffic areas such as hallways and foyers, you may want a durable, patterned rug. Choose furniture that enhances the rug design or colors found in the rug. If you start with furniture, choose a rug to pick up the colors used in your furnishing patterns.
Patterns can be mixed if they are coordinated by color.
Elements of a rug design can be further incorporated into the overall design scheme. For example, if the rug is floral, add framed prints or flowers in similar colors. Size up the size of the room and the area you want to cover. They work well under a coffee table. A rug with a bold, overall design can be the focal point of a room with a chair and sofa in solid or subdued patterns.