The Art of Layering Rugs: How to Create Rooms with Soul

Sponsored by Loloi Rugs

Welcome to the art of rug layering.

Layering rugs isn’t about filling up floor space. It’s about telling a story. It’s the unexpected pairing of old and new, flatweave and plush, pattern on pattern—or subtle on subtle. It’s a stylist’s secret weapon, a designer’s final touch, and one of the simplest ways to add personality, polish, and a sense of intention to any room.

And if you ask us, no one does rugs with more heart than Loloi.

(Hero Image) Design by Heidi Caillier, (Above) Design by Laura Hodges

Why Layering Works (And Why We Love It)

A layered rug moment isn’t just cozy. It’s considered. It adds depth to flat spaces, softness to architectural rooms, and can make even the most minimalist interiors feel curated and warm. Done right, it feels effortless. A little bit bohemian, a little bit refined. Like someone lives here—and they really know what they’re doing.

But the real secret? It’s not actually difficult to do.

1. Start with a Base

Think of your base rug as the anchor. It’s usually larger and more neutral—something to ground the space and give your top rug a visual stage to stand on. Flatweaves like jutes and cottons work beautifully here. They’re sturdy, textural, and unfussy.

Loloi’s Sienne Collection, for example, offers a subtly striped, handwoven look that sets the tone without stealing the show. Or for something even more tactile, their Lyle Collection in jute brings that natural, earthy feel that pairs well with virtually everything.

Design by Laura Hodges

2. Add a Statement

Here’s where things get interesting. Your top rug should bring the personality—whether that’s through color, pattern, pile, or all three. Think vintage-inspired motifs, hand-illustrated patterns, or a playful pop of hue that breaks the rules just enough.

We’re particularly drawn to the Chris Loves Julia x Loloi collaborations for this moment. They strike the perfect balance between lived-in and luxe, old-world and fresh. The distressed palettes and traditional silhouettes feel collected, not cookie-cutter.

Another standout: the Layla Collection, which gives you the feel of an heirloom rug at a fraction of the price—and with zero stress about wear and tear. (P.S. It’s one of the best-kept secrets for high-traffic spaces.)

Design by Stefani Stein

3. Think in Textures

Just like with upholstery or bedding, mixing textures adds a tactile richness that pulls a room together. Try pairing a flat, tightly woven foundation with something soft and plush on top. The juxtaposition invites you in—barefoot, ideally.

The Billie Collection, with its low pile and vintage wash, layers beautifully over chunkier bases. Or go all-in on plush with the Magnolia Home x Loloi Jules Collection, which brings an almost velvety softness and subdued palette to the floor.

Design by Heidi Caillier

Craftsmanship Matters

Here’s the thing: layering only works when the materials themselves are beautiful—and built to last. Which brings us back to Loloi.

Every Loloi rug begins with a commitment to craftsmanship. These are not mass-produced afterthoughts. In India, their artisans still dye and weave rugs by hand, the old-world way. There’s something sacred about that process. You feel it underfoot, yes—but also in the spirit of the room. It’s the kind of detail that doesn’t just look good; it feels meaningful.

From the intricate hand-knotting of their Nairi Collection to the luminous softness of their Loren rugs, each piece is thoughtfully made to live with you. Not just for a season—but for years. Maybe even decades.

Design by Ashley Montgomery

The Loloi Look

So, what defines the Loloi aesthetic? It’s that perfect mix of heritage and modernity. Rugs that feel collected, not coordinated. Rich without being loud. Soft without being forgettable.

They’re designed for real homes—whether that’s a studio apartment with a bold vision or a sprawling retreat with room to roam. And that versatility? It’s intentional.

Their collaborations with tastemakers like Amber Lewis, Magnolia Home, and Justina Blakeney ensure that there’s always a rug that speaks to your style, no matter where you fall on the design spectrum. 

Explore more from Loloi Rugs, and discover how a layered floor can lead to your most lived-in, loved-on room yet.

(Top Left) Courtesy of Loloi Rugs, (Top Right) Morrison Interiors, (Bottom) Yond Interiors