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Nothing sparks decision fatigue quite like having to pick out a new rug (something I know from personal experience and having talked to countless homeowners). Maybe it’s because there are so many materials, styles, patterns, and shapes out there or perhaps it’s because a rug can determine the whole tone for a room. Either way, when you’ve reached your breaking point, all you want is an authority to tell you what to buy. If you’re in that spot right now, head straight to Nate Berkus’s new collection with Rugs USA. The interior designer just dropped 16 styles (seven of which are washable!), mostly in easy-to-apply shades of gray, brown, and cream.
In addition to a recent collaboration with Padma Lakshmi, this is one of the first collections the brand has put out since removing mention of past designer partnerships (such as ones with Arvin Olano and Emily Henderson) from its website.
Koorosh Yaraghi, CEO at Rugs USA, says the decision was based on serving customers “new and fresh design perspectives” that’ll complement the core collections. “We’ve enjoyed working with some of the most talented designers and tastemakers in the industry, their creativity and contributions have connected us with new audiences, and we’re grateful for the role each partner has played in our journey,” says Yaraghi.
Here’s what we’re eyeing from Berkus’s affordable drop.
The Solid Foundations
There are two rug styles the designer typically reaches for: textured solids (peep the nubby wool option above) or classic patterns (think stripes, checks, plaids). So when in doubt, pare back on the motifs. “This collection started with me doing a ton of research, going through hundreds of classical motifs in woven design, from antique rugs and Chinese Art deco Rugs to European rugs from the 1930s and 1940s,” shares the designer.
The Mistake to Avoid
The rug mistake he sees people make the most? Picking one that’s a bit too small. “As a rule of thumb: go bigger than you think,” he advises. “A rug that’s too small can make a room feel segmented and less gracious, while one that extends under your key furniture pieces makes everything feel more luxurious.”
Picking a design with a graphic border can be a great tool for helping you arrange all your furniture neatly on top of the rug. Don’t worry if some bits get covered up by your sofa—you’ll still get the gist.
The Luxurious Solid
Want your living room to look instantly more expensive? Opt for the Crosby rug. Berkus recently used it in a media room of a $22 million New York City penthouse and says the hand-knotted wool is a timeless investment for any home.
The Chic Washables
There’s nothing kid-like about the seven washable rugs that Berkus tossed into the mix. They come in sophisticated shades of gray, green, and brown and feature intricate checkerboard patterns, plaid borders, and soft florals that elevate them from playroom status to the primary suite.