How to Mix Rugs in Open Floor Plan Studio McGee Style: 1 Minute to Master Studio McGee’s Rug Layering for Open Floor Plan Harmony

If you’re wondering how to mix rugs in open floor plan Studio McGee homes, you’re not alone. The biggest challenge? Avoiding that chaotic patchwork feel while defining cozy zones. As an interior designer and someone who has labored over dozens of rug combos, I’ve learned there’s a delicate dance between cohesion and contrast—especially in open floor plans.

Studio McGee’s approach thrives on blending modern lines with organic, timeless textures. It might surprise you: even the pros rely on visual tools to plan where each rug will work best for flow and symmetry. But before you get click-happy with online orders, let’s break down the secret sauce to rug harmony.

Tip 1: Start With a Core Rug—Define the Anchor Space

I always recommend picking your anchor rug first. In true Studio McGee style, choose a large, neutral base with subtle pattern or tonal variation—think creamy wool or soft, dusky blue. This rug should ground your main seating area. Use a digital design tool to test how different rug sizes and colors interact across zones for a seamless look.

Tip 2: Coordinate Patterns by Scale, Not by Match

Here’s a pro secret: layering rugs isn’t about matching patterns, but contrasting their scale. If your anchor rug is solid or has a subtle motif, pair accent rugs with bolder, geometric patterns—just keep the palette related. Once, I mixed a classic low-pile jute with a vintage-inspired Persian and a small-scale checkered entry mat. The result felt curated, not cluttered. Try mapping out these combos with a visual rug layout planner for immediate feedback.

Tip 3: Repeat Hues, Play With Borders

Studio McGee designs often repeat hues found in wall art or upholstery, but they also sneak in diversity through rug borders. Experiment with different finishes—fringe, tassels, banded edges—to define each space. Recently, I solved a client’s awkward dining-living transition by echoing navy accent chairs in both rugs’ borders, which closed the gap beautifully. Never underestimate the power of repeating one accent color in both rugs for unity.

Tip 4: Mind the Transitions and Traffic Flow

In open floor plans, visual boundaries matter. Rugs should overlap slightly or be spaced at least six inches apart to avoid the ‘chopped up’ effect. Always align edges with furniture lines. Once, I layered a round jute rug beneath a rectangular coffee table and used a runner to lead into the kitchen. The key? Keep high-traffic areas clear and let rugs act as subtle guides instead of roadblocks.

Tip 5: Case Study—Cozy Meets Modern Studio

One memorable Studio McGee-inspired project entailed a NYC loft with intense afternoon sun and barely-there walls. Our client loved bold boho motifs but also wanted peace. We used an oversized, hand-knotted beige rug in the living area, layered a smaller terracotta kilim beneath the reading nook, and a simple wool runner for the entry. Each rug repeated a key color—clay, sand, or deep navy—from the artwork. The result? Visually cohesive zones that felt vibrant, not overwhelming, and a client who claimed she’d “never want to move again.”

FAQ

How do you pick a coordinating rug color for an open floor plan?

Choose a main color from your existing decor and repeat it in each rug’s pattern or border for unity.

What’s the best rug size for layering in an open concept living room?

Anchor rugs should sit under at least two-thirds of your main furniture. Smaller rugs define secondary zones.

Should rugs be the same material in an open floor plan?

No, mixing materials like wool, jute, or cotton adds visual interest and invites texture contrast, especially Studio McGee style.

How do Studio McGee rooms avoid looking cluttered with multiple rugs?

They limit the palette, balance pattern scale, and maintain clear visual lines between each zone for cohesion.