What do you think?: Will an oriental-design rug work in my tropical-theme Mahalo Lounge?
I have thought for quite a while that I would use an oriental rug in the lounge:
- I love oriental rugs — and they look fantastic in midcentury homes. They are timeless — they have been be around forever…
- I think that when chosen correctly, they (1) blend, (2) accentuate, and (3) make a statement all their own — all at the same time…
- And I love mashing things up. And, the more pattern the better. But it’s gotta work; I know it when I see it.
I found this rug at my favorite used furniture store. The colors were right — the slightly muddy coral field! — and so was the price. The back is flaking (I’m reading online that that’s old latex delaminating and can be repaired), so it’s not perfect. But I was itching to get something on the floor, so I took a chance and carted it home.
I waaaaaant it to be right, but I’m not sure. I think it’s going to fight the upholstery of the sectional.
Like I said: I love mashing things up, and I love lots of pattern. But: I am not a professional interior designer who has done scores of rooms. I still need to experiment… to take risks — and ack! spend money… to see if what’s in my head will really translate into a room. This one: I am not sure. What do you think?
- Browse >> all my stories about my Mahalo Lounge << to get sneak peeks of the various elements and how they’re starting to come together.
Carolyn says
Um, what happened to the leopard rug Astro adored? Or was I “off” that day?
I wouldn’t say Oriental clashes with the tiki vibe – isn’t Hawaii/Tahiti/Fiji/Polynesia made up of a mish-mash of East Asia peoples?
I would put the rug down and live with it for a year. Seasonal light will affect how it looks. The reason people put rugs down was to help keep your feet warm in winter so plan on a place to store it if it comes to using it seasonally. And it’s not like you couldn’t find another room to lay it down if it doesn’t work out in the tiki setting.
Pam Kueber says
Hi Carolyn, see the stories on the Lounge… leopard print is now on the walls!
Ranger Smith says
Sorry, I don’t think that this would be the best choice. I agree with the others that have suggested a more natural, textured option. Sisal would look good and not deter from your drapes but I’ve never been a fan of how it feels under my feet. Whatever you choose, I’m looking forward to seeing the end product Pam.
Andi says
I love Oriental carpets so my opinion is influenced by that. Also not an interior designer. And I love a heavy mix of patterns and color. So, disclosures made…From what I can see in the photos (and I’ve been following the progress of the Mahalo with intense interest!), this looks like it could be perfect for the space. Hard to know without seeing an upholstery sample with the rug in person. This rug’s greens look like they have enough olive tones to complement the fabric…and the rich overall saturation of the colors and pattern in the carpet will ground the whole room. That corally red is really great with the drapes fabric. Anything light in color might look like the floor is floating, if that makes sense. I think this rug would be amazing with those leopard walls! Can’t wait for the reveal…
Stacia says
I absolutely think you can use it. Some rugs like this look more markedly “oriental” than others. This one looks more tropical to me, with stylized plant shapes and colors. You’re probably worried about the complimentary colors fighting each other… since they are muted in the rug it will probably work, in the same way the greens and reds already work in the rug itself. The scale of the sectional will matter, as will other things that are on top of or next to it, but you’ll just have to try it to see. In a room with this much texture, a plain neutral would have the opposite effect, essentially calling attention to itself. You have it now so may as well try it. It’s a bold choice for a bold room!
Catalina says
Yes, I agree, this rug reads less “oriental” than most, and more tropical or Polynesian. The colors are wonderful, the perfect muted versions of other colors in the space, I think they will help ground the room. I’m just not sure on the scale of the print. You won’t really be able to tell until the furniture is all there, though. Many people are suggesting a more natural texture, like sisal, but I think for a lounge where you’ll be serving drinks, you want a plush carpet that is easier to clean. And a large solid light colored rectangle will draw attention to itself in this space I think. Since you’ve already bought this (gorgeous) rug, I say go for it! Once your sectional comes in, I think you’ll be able to tell if it feels right. You can always keep an eye out for other options and let the room evolve a little over time. It’s a beautiful rug, you should be able to re-home it fairly easily if it won’t work for you.
Carol says
I agree with Catalina and Stacia. There is more olive in the sectional sofa than in the curtains. The curtains blue- greens may be the only “clashing” factor. The rug looks clean, but may be dull and need a cleaning. Maybe a spot cleaning to see if the olive showing is the true color. I think it’s great, and with hardwood floors will not be too much pattern or color. Love the pattern! Sisal would be great, but with so many dark elements in the room, it could look out of place. Then again with the hardwood, sisal would blend. You will know if it’s right when it’s finished. You DO have mad design skills! Your kitchen and tan and white bathroom are absolute perfection.
Robin, WA says
I think mashing things up is awesome but in this case where the room is very strongly decorated in one direction (tiki), adding one piece of decor that doesn’t go with the overall vibe would look wrong. I would go with sisal. Or you could take a cue from Graceland and go with a deep green shag rug.
Lynne says
I have to agree with the others. Nice rug, but not for a Tiki inspired room. A more natural, textural fiber would be the path I would explore.
ineffablespace says
It’s a great rug, but for a tiki room my vote is no.
Kristine says
How about a sisal rug? I think they have more of a tropical flair.
Reader Deb says
If it’s too much once you get the sectional maybe you could use it in the dining room?
I get a kick out of the ads that pop up depending on the topic you’re covering. Maybe these for a water guard under all those plants?
https://shop.designideas.net/product/balihai-placemat-alocasia?gclid=CPWX9JeE8tQCFYlXDQodcNoErg
Christine W says
I think it’s great carpet with nice colours – what a find Pam. The only thing I’d be concerned about would be if it detracted from those beautiful curtains, which I think you spent alot of money on. It’s hard to tell without seeing it in the entire room with everything in place. It could look really nice though. If you love it that’s all that matters