“Why would you go through all the effort to make the bed look so beautiful and then you just go and throw a blanket across it? Doesn’t that ruin the look?” – a question we got asked recently.

We thought if one person is thinking this, there has got to be more people wondering about the same thing…. So, let’s address it!

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To answer this question – No, a throw rug across the corner of the bed does not ruin the look.

In fact, there is a deep-rooted psychological element at play, which is the main reason why we use at least one throw rug per each property we style for sale.

Home staging is all about engaging people’s senses. The more senses get captured, the stronger the emotional connection becomes between the potential buyer and the house. And it is precisely this emotional connection, that has proven itself to be the key influential factor in their buying decision.

Psychology Behind Throw Rugs

Blankets, coverlets and throw rugs are commonly referred to as ‘security or transitional objects’ in the science of psychology.

Influenced by our childhood’s perception of comfort and security, research shows that it is very common for this subconscious sensorial sentiment to be carried through into our adulthood.

In simple terms, anything that resembles our childhood “blankey” makes us feel warm and cozy, even as adults. Need a proof? Just look at the rising popularity of weighted blankets.

But wait, there’s more. Evoking the sense of comfort is just one of the reasons we use throw rugs.

black bed head with white and pink bed linen and a knitted throw rug draped over the corner

It’s all about layers.

Rug + cushions + throw rug + accessories – each one of these layers plays an important role as it helps shape our depth perception.

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Layering also makes everything look bigger & plusher, which increases the sense of luxury and therefore contributes to a higher price point of the house.

Our Favourite Throw Rugs

We love incorporating various types of throws into our styling. Different fabrics stimulate different sensory experiences, some appear warm & snug, others may add a pop of luxury to the final look (e.g. faux fur).

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These are some of our favourite throws to use (purchased from Adairs)

Foxy Stylist’s Shopping Tips:

Sheridan Outlets have amazing sales every now and then, keep an eye out!

Adairs are known for their great quality throws & coverlets, we recommend joining their Linen Lovers membership program for some great discounts throughout the year (it’s about $20 for a 2-year membership and it’s so worth it!)

Shopping wholesale? Check out Canvas + Sasson for some beautiful country feel & fine cotton materials, or Eadie Lifestyle for your more high-end properties.

Storing Throw Rugs

Matchy-Matchy

Colour coordination is one of the most important rules of interior styling. It’s simple – just choose a style or a specific colour theme and stick with it.

Watch out for mixing multiple patterns as they may clash, so if you choose to use a patterned bed spread – keep the throw rug simple.

If possible, try to avoid overdoing it on the other side of the colour spectrum – white. If you style everything in white, it appears washed-out and provides nothing for your eyes to settle on. It’s necessary to give each room at least one element of interest.

7 Ways to Style a Throw Rug

1. Draped Over the Corner of the Bed

This is what we at Foxy refer to as the ‘messy look’. But don’t let the name fool you, the effortless appearance gives the bedroom just the right amount of a ‘lived-in factor’. It feels relaxed, homely, inviting & warm.

For the best look, we recommend laying out the throw rug, pinching it in its centre and folding it over one of the corners of the bed (we always choose the one closest to the door for the best first impression). Then step back and see if you need to gather, tug, or spread it out in some places, but don’t overthink it. Effortless appearance is exactly what the name suggests – effortless.

2. Neatly Folded on the Bed

The structured look is perfect for the more luxurious, high-end properties or bedrooms where we can use symmetrical pair of artworks. At Foxy, we tend to use this style predominantly in master bedrooms and/or when targeting older demographics (who prefer this “hotel-like” styling).

To achieve a neat and tidy look, we recommend using either a throw or a coverlet only, but not both.

3. Draped Over the Sofa

A loosely folded throw hanging over the front & back of the sofa adds a welcoming vibe to any living area. The casual placement of the throw rug in combination with some beautiful, plush cushions lures anyone walking past to just grab the throw and snuggle up on the couch.

4. Folded Over the Chaise

The aim of this throw placement is similar to the example above, which is to make the living room look warmer and more inviting. In this case it’s executed in a more structured way, with the throw neatly folded lengthwise over the corner of the chaise lounge.

5. Draped Over the Lounge Chair

Lone-standing lounge chairs can appear a bit plain, especially if they are placed in the corner of the room. Draping a throw over the arm or the back of these seats adds a visual interest to what would normally be an empty space.

Tip: Place a cushion on top of the throw for an extra element of comfort.

6. Ottoman

We love styling with ottomans for their incredible versatility. They can be used as footstools, coffee tables, pouffes or even as extra seats for guests. Depending on the living space and the style we’re going for, placing a throw rug over the ottoman is guaranteed to add a layer of interest & texture.

Photo credit - Lavender Hill Interiors

7. Hung Over the Clothes Rack

The perfect solution for decorative ladders in bedrooms or entry hallways. Simply hang a lightweight throw over the rack and pair it up with a couple of magazines to entice people’s interest. This easy option requires a little effort and always comes out looking beautiful.