I adore the vintage patina, intricate designs and rich colors of persian rugs! But using them in a space can be a bit tricky - they pack a whole lot of pattern and can easily make a space look busy, old fashioned or just dark and heavy. The key is to contrast them with loads of white and dark neutrals. Balancing them with a few mod pieces also helps keep the look eclectic and fresh as opposed to cluttered. And lastly, I especially love persian carpets with unexpected hues - like faded coral, bright pink, slate blue, or lime {and try to avoid those in the traditional deep red and navy color combo}.

Here are some of my favorite inspiration images . . . 

Love the contrast with the oversized black pendants and abstract painting!

This might just be my ultimate dream kitchen! 

We have a large natural sisal in our living room and would love to layer one of these small colorful persian rugs on top! Add it to the wish list . . . 

If you in the market, Erugs.com is actually a wonderful source and Etsy and Ebay are also often full of great finds!

Happy Friday Everyone!

{images via}

Trend Alert: Black + White Striped Rugs

I am sure that you, like me, have spotted tons of black and white rugs these days! From Elle Decor to Architectural Digest to retail sites, this look is certainly noteworthy. The IKEA Rand rug is a really great looking and very affordable choice, but of course some of these are vintage flat weave dhurrie rugs - but either way, I just love the bold graphic element and confident pattern they give. They are a little bit edgy and a little bit ethnic, and I am on board with the trend! How about you? 

{via}

Tuesday's Tip: Bare it All

I recently have been so drawn to bare floors! As a designer, the carpet or area rug is usually the first place you start when you create a space, but what about forgoing it altogether? I thought at first it might be cold or barren but when done right - I think the lack of a floor covering is so breezy and chic! 

 3 tips to make this look work at home:

{1} Be sure the room has plenty of other textiles, fabrics, or upholstery - this will soften the look

{2} Don't worry if your floors are not perfect - if they have patina and and you love them, then go for it 

{3}  Fill the space with extra visual interest and texture from art and accessories - this will create a lovely contrast with the bare floors below!

Kind of freeing right!? If this look is not totally for you, a great solution is to add a few small vintage throw rugs or sheepskins just where you need them most! 

{images via 1. 2 . 3 . 4 . 5 . 6 - 9}

XOXO

Trend Alert: Striped Rugs!

In dining rooms, bedrooms, living rooms and beyond, I am loving all of the striped rugs I am spotting lately!  I am addicted to most things striped, but especially like the mod, graphic element they bring when on the floor. I think a simple, two color stripe works the best when layering other colors and patterns in the space. The great news is that since they are all the rage, there are lots of amazing versions available at retail sources too {see my picks below!} so no one has to be left out of the trend! 

Here are my favorite striped rugs - I honestly can't narrow it down, they are all fantastic! 

1. West Elm

2. Green Apple Design

3. Dash & Albert

4. IKEA

5. Dwell Studio

6. American Home Rug Co.

7. Surya 

What are your thoughts, is this a trend that's here to stay? 

Happy Wednesday!

{images above via 1. 2 . 3 . 4 . 5 . 6}




Also today is the last day to enter the giveaway for a pair of beautiful designer pillows from Castle Creek Designs! They have some striped ones too! 
Good Luck!