Want to add depth, warmth and a bit of boho charm to your home? Layering rugs is the way to do it. It’s a design trick that adds texture, colour and personality to any space – for us boho lovers who like a lived in, effortless vibe. Whether you’re a seasoned interior enthusiast or just boho curious, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get it right. Ready to level up your space? Let’s get started!

Why Layer Rugs?

Layering rugs is one of the easiest ways to change a room, adding texture, interest and character. It allows you to create visual depth and define areas, especially in open plan spaces, by using area rugs to add texture and preserve the beauty of older pieces. You can soften hard flooring and make a room feel more cozy.

Plus it’s a budget friendly way to decorate – placing a smaller, more luxurious rug on top of a larger, neutral one can save you money and still give you the look you want. It’s also a way to test out colour without overwhelming the room. Layering is boho chic, blending patterns and textures in an easy yet thoughtful way.

Before You Start Rug Layering

Before you get started with the fun part of layering rugs, a bit of prep work will go a long way in ensuring a perfect result. Here’s what you need to do:

• Measure Your Room: Accurate measurements are key. Take note of the length and width of your room and don’t forget to include any obstructions like furniture or doorways. This will help you choose the right size rugs and plan your layout.

• Choose the Rugs: Select rugs that work together in terms of colour, texture and pattern. Think about the overall style and theme of your room. For example a jute rug can be a neutral base and a patterned rug can add a pop of colour and interest.

• Clean and Vacuum: Make sure your floor is spotless before you start layering. Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove any dust and dirt that could accumulate under the rugs and keep your layered rugs looking fresh and clean.

• Inspect the Floor: Check for any unevenness or damage on the floor that could affect the layering process. Fix any issues before you start to ensure a smooth and even surface for your rugs.

• Plan the Layout: Visualise how you want your layered rugs to look. Think about the size and shape of each rug and the placement of furniture and other decor. Sketching a rough layout will help you see how everything will fit together.

By doing these prep steps you’ll be ready for a beautiful layered rug look in your boho home.

Choosing the Rugs to Layer

When choosing rugs to layer the options are endless. Start by thinking about the overall vibe you want. Do you want a rich, eclectic bohemian look or something more subtle? Layering two rugs with complementary colours and patterns will give you a great look.

A popular combo is to pair cowhide or animal hide rugs with a neutral, flatweave rug as the base. The organic shape of a hide rug for example creates a great contrast with the more geometric lines of a large base rug. Seasonality also comes into play – light, breathable fabrics like jute for summer and wool or shag rugs in winter will add warmth or coolness to a space.

Hides on top of neutral rugs will give you that boho look without being too much.

Patterned Rug Layering Tips

To really get the boho look, layer patterned rugs. Start with complementary colours or patterns that will enhance each other not clash. For example a natural jute rug with a vibrant Persian rug will balance a room.

In smaller spaces we recommend sticking to a monochromatic colour scheme but mixing textures. This will keep the look cohesive without making the space feel too busy. If your room is lacking colour, using a boldly patterned rug as the top layer will add instant visual interest without having to redecorate everything.

Rug Layering Techniques

Alignment and Angles

When layering rugs alignment and angles are key. The base rug should generally be placed straight, in line with the furniture, to ground the space. The top rug can be angled – anywhere between 45 and 90 degrees – depending on the look you want.

Angling a rug draws the eye so it’s an easy way to make a statement. Just be mindful of balance – too many angles can make the space feel disjointed.

Decorating in Maximalist Style

Boho and maximalism go together. If you’re going for a maximalist look don’t be afraid to layer multiple rugs with different patterns, textures and colours. It’s all about finding harmony in the chaos. A well curated selection of boho rugs will add depth without feeling cluttered. Remember maximalist boho isn’t about adding more, it’s about mixing fresh colours, unique designs and traditional elements in a modern way.

Layering Rug Problems and Solutions

One of the biggest challenges with layering rugs is they bunch up or slide. This is especially true in high traffic areas like the bedroom or living room. To avoid this always use a non-slip rug pad which will keep the layers in place and prevent slipping.

Another challenge is thick rugs – stacking too many heavy rugs will create unsightly bulges or even tripping hazards. Make sure to consider the thickness of each layer and don’t overlap too much.

Layering Rug Benefits

Layering rugs adds warmth and character to any room. Whether it’s your living room or bedroom rugs soften hard surfaces and create a snug space. They also act as sound absorbers in high traffic rooms.

If you have vintage or antique rugs that hold sentimental value layering them over a durable base rug is a great way to preserve them while keeping them in use.

How to Layer Rugs

To get the boho look mix and match patterns, textures and colours. Start with a vintage rug as the base layer – its worn textures and muted colours set the scene. Then layer a sheepskin or shag rug on top for a soft, cozy feel.

A cowhide rug can also be used as a top layer to add that bohemian, earthy style that’s both rustic and chic.

Layering Rugs in Small Spaces

In small spaces layering rugs can still create visual interest without overwhelming the room. Start with a smaller top rug to avoid crowding the floor. Monochromatic schemes with varied textures work a treat in small rooms – try pairing a jute rug with a sisal rug for a natural yet elegant look.

Rug Pads in Layering

Never underestimate the importance of a good rug pad. Not only will it keep your rugs in place but it will also add an extra layer of cushioning so the layered rugs feel even more indulgent underfoot. Look for non-slip rug pads to keep everything in place even in high traffic areas.

Creating a Focal Point with Layered Rugs

One of the best ways to create a focal point in a room is to layer a bold patterned rug on top. It becomes the hero of the room, naturally drawing the eye. Pair a vintage base rug with a brightly coloured accent rug for extra drama. Vary the sizes and shapes of the rugs to create a layered effect.

Texture in Layering Rugs

Texture is everything when layering rugs boho-style. By mixing textures we create depth and warmth that makes a room feel instantly cozier. Try layering a soft shag rug with a sturdy sisal rug or a plush wool rug with a smooth cowhide. The contrast of textures will enhance the overall design and prevent it from feeling flat.

Layering Rugs in Different Rooms

In dining rooms layering rugs can help define the space under the table, add style and protection. This technique works in various spaces within a home including the dining room to create a unique and personal style that adds warmth and character. Try layering a large base rug with a smaller top rug.

In living rooms a mix of vintage and modern rugs is the perfect boho combo. A sheepskin top layer in the bedroom adds a cozy, luxurious feel.

Layering Rugs for a One Off Look

If you want to create a one off look don’t be afraid to experiment. Start with a large base rug and layer smaller rugs on top. Mix and match patterns, styles and textures until you get the right balance. At the end of the day boho is all about creating a space that’s one of a kind that reflects you – so go bold and have fun with it!

Boho-Chic Tips

To really get the boho-chic look with your layered rugs remember:

• Mix and Match: Embrace the eclecticism of boho style by combining different patterns, textures and colours. Pair a vintage rug with a modern sisal rug or layer a soft sheepskin rug over a sturdy jute rug. The contrast will add depth and visual interest to the space.

• Add a Statement Piece: Use a bold patterned rug as a focal point to anchor the room. This will be the hero of the space and add drama to your decor.

• Balance with Neutrals: To stop the space from feeling too busy balance bold or brightly coloured rugs with neutral rugs or furniture. This will create a harmonious look that’s beautiful to the eye.

• Experiment with Angles: Don’t be afraid to play with different angles and orientations when layering rugs. Angling a rug will add visual interest and create a one off look.

• Add Decorative Elements: Finish off your boho-chic look with decorative elements. Think vintage furniture, macrame wall hangings and colourful throw pillows. These will enhance the layered rug look and tie the room together.