Area Rugs

Contemporary area rugs are simple, well-crafted floor coverings designed to anchor your furnishings and cushion your floors. Compared with more traditional rug options, contemporary area rugs are simple, understated rugs that place more of an emphasis on quality and texture than intricate patterns. In place of featuring overly detailed, visually punchy designs, contemporary rugs feature simple, tactile patterns and/or color blocking, and are designed to showcase the one-of-a-kind colors and textures of their makes and materials.

Many contemporary rugs are handwoven flatweave rugs. The combination of low-pile height and quality handmade construction makes these rugs ultra durable, easy to clean, and suitable for high-traffic spaces. Handwoven or braided rugs also highlight the artistry and craftsmanship of their skilled makers, who weave or braid strips of fabric or fibers together, resulting in a unique and textured surface.

Contemporary area rugs can suit any space, from minimalist to maximalist. Underscoring the design of all area rugs at HAY is an emphasis on high-quality materials and construction. For more about the design process behind some of HAY’s contemporary rugs, read about HAY’s visit to textile designer Ethan Cook's New York studio.

Area Rug Sizes

Small Area Rugs (2'x3' to 4'x6'): These smaller rugs are ideal for adding welcoming comfort to small areas of your home, like entryways and foyers. They can also be used to section your space or highlight certain pieces of furniture – for example, placed beneath a coffee table, console table, or small dining table.

Medium Area Rugs (5'x7' to 6'x9'): Medium-sized rugs are all-purpose floor coverings that work well in living rooms, bedrooms, or dining areas. They can anchor furniture groupings or create a focal point in your space, which is ideal if you have an open floor plan.

Large Area Rugs (8' x 10' to 9' x 12'): Large rugs are perfect for spacious living rooms, dining rooms, or open-concept areas. Not only can they help establish and define functional areas around your home, but they're also very efficient at muffling foot traffic, ideal for upper-floor apartments and multi-floor homes.

Oversized Area Rugs (10' x 14' and larger): Oversized rugs are designed to make a statement in grand living rooms, expansive dining areas, or master bedrooms.

Area Rug Materials

Wool: Wool rugs are favored for their exceptional softness, durability, and natural resistance to stains and wear. They offer a luxurious feel underfoot and are well-suited for high-traffic areas. Most wool rugs at HAY are handmade from New Zealand wool and feature natural, one-of-a-kind textures and colors.

Cotton: Cotton rugs are lightweight and versatile rugs that make good alternatives to wool. They are easy to clean and can suit almost any space. However, without proper maintenance, they may not be quite as durable as wool rugs; therefore, it’s a good idea to consider wool-cotton blends, like those available at HAY.

Natural Fibers: Natural fiber rugs, such as sisal, jute, or seagrass, bring a touch of organic, understated style to any space. They offer a textured and earthy aesthetic and make eco-friendly choices. At HAY, shop richly textured cotton-jute blend rugs.