Mastering the Art of Layering Rugs Like a Designer
5/12/20252 min read


Welcome back to Adair Lane. Layering rugs is one of the easiest ways to elevate the style of any room. It adds depth, texture, warmth, and that effortlessly curated look you often see in designer homes. The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve it. At Adair Lane, we believe creating a beautiful home should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we’re sharing our favorite tips on how to layer rugs like a designer while sticking to your budget.
Start with a Solid Foundation
Your bottom rug should be neutral, durable, and ideally a bit larger than the rug you’ll layer on top. Flatweave rugs like jute, sisal, or cotton work perfectly as a base because they create structure without overwhelming the room.
Adair Lane Tip: Look for affordable 8x10 natural fiber rugs from big-box retailers or online marketplaces like Amazon and Wayfair. They go with everything and give you a clean slate to work from.
Recommended Product: Zesthome 8x10 Area Rug in Beige this is a neutral foundation rug that’s versatile, durable, and budget-friendly.
Add Visual Interest with a Smaller Accent Rug
The top rug is your moment to have fun. Choose a patterned or colorful rug that brings personality to the space. Think vintage-inspired prints, bold geometrics, or plush Moroccan-style textures. This smaller rug becomes the focal point and gives your room its unique style.
Adair Lane Tip: Rummage through outlet stores or check online sales sections for 4x6 or 5x7 rugs with character. This is where you can splurge a little since it's smaller, it’s often more affordable.
Recommended Products:
Tortania Area Rug in Cream & Blue – A subtle vintage vibe with soft, cool tones.
Vivorug Washable Rug in Brick Red/Navy – Bold and washable, great for families or high-traffic areas.
BILEEHOME Pink Area Rug – A charming touch of color for feminine, modern, or eclectic spaces.
Mix Textures Like a Pro
Layering is all about contrast. A coarse jute rug paired with a soft, fluffy top rug instantly adds coziness and balance. Playing with different textures makes your space feel inviting and intentional.
Adair Lane Tip: If you’re going with a shag or high-pile rug on top, make sure your base rug is flatter to avoid tripping hazards and to keep the look grounded.
Recommended Product: Morebes Washable Area Rug in Beige – A soft, neutral rug that adds texture without overwhelming your base layer.
Embrace Creative Placement
Your rugs don’t need to be perfectly aligned. In fact, the most designer-looking rooms often feature rugs layered at an angle or slightly off-center. This relaxed approach makes the room feel more collected and less formal.
Adair Lane Tip: In a living room, try placing the base rug under your furniture and layering the top rug just under the coffee table at a slight angle. In the bedroom, lay the base rug under the bed and place the top rug partially to one side for asymmetry.
Keep It Functional While style is important, your rugs still need to serve your everyday life. If layering in a high-traffic area, choose rugs that are easy to clean and won’t slide around.
Adair Lane Tip: Use a rug pad or non-slip mat to keep both rugs secure. They’re inexpensive, prevent bunching, and extend the life of your rugs.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a design degree or a designer budget to layer rugs beautifully. With a few thoughtful choices, you can create a warm, collected, and polished look that reflects your personal style. At Adair Lane, we’re here to help you find affordable pieces that feel like home.
Layer with confidence, shop smart, and style boldly.
Stay Elevated,
The Adair Lane Team