How to Identify Luxury Rugs

 

Some rug buyers might prioritise functionality, while others desire something extraordinary. For those who fall into the latter category, luxury rugs are the ultimate accessory.

To help you find your brand-new favourite floor accessory, we have all the must-know information that will teach you exactly how to identify a luxury rug when you are browsing through the numerous rugs.

True luxury lies not in the look of a rug but in the feel of it, in its heritage and in the overall quality.

With so many options and with the quality of rugs getting better and better, it can be hard for buyers to tell the difference between a genuine luxurious rug and one that is simply a good imitation. If you are unable to tell the difference between an authentic luxury rug and one that is a knock-off, you could well end up wasting both your time and your money.

These sorts of rugs are simply spectacular in just about every imaginable way, at least for those who appreciate the artistry and the history behind each rug, and especially if that rug has been made by hand.

For those seeking something truly special for their home or office, something that completely transforms a space from ordinary to opulent, the hunt for a luxurious rug is one best done armed with the right knowledge. We offer a wide range of luxury rugs for sale.

There are plenty of factors that differentiate an everyday store-bought rug from a higher-end luxury one. And it is quite easy to tell one from the other when you know what you should be looking for. You might also like our range of modern rugs.

 

The Qualities of a Luxurious Rug

 

Buying a luxurious rug is about so much more than just making an impressive interior décor statement; it is an experience for all your senses.

Walking on a soft luxurious rug is a feeling of pure indulgence underfoot, while the look of the rug will certainly add a touch of something special to the space you’ve placed it in, so long as you choose a rug that fits in with your unique tastes and interior decorating ideas. 

• But what exactly makes a rug worthy of the word “luxurious”?

If what you want is a luxury rug, here are the qualities you need to look for.

• The Materials

When your goal is to buy a luxury rug, look for rugs created from the finest natural fibres such as hand-knotted wool, plush silk, or a shimmering viscose.

Because these types of materials are so luxurious, they offer a certain softness, and a natural sheen that speaks volumes about the quality of the rug.

The material used to make the rug will also tell you whether the rug will stand the test of time. All luxury rugs should have a long lifespan, as their durability is part of their appeal.

• A High Knot Count

The way in which the rug has been put together will be a huge determining factor when it comes to how much of a luxury rug it is.

Hand-knotted rugs, where each knot is painstakingly tied by skilled artisans, are and always will be the epitome of luxury. These are rare and expensive buys, but they are absolutely worth every cent you spend as these rugs will usually be of the highest quality.

The higher the knot count, which is the number of knots per square inch, the finer the detail, and as a result, the more luxurious the look and the feel.

• A Feast for the Eyes

From ornate geometric patterns to the most elegant floral motifs reminiscent of some famous Persian masterpiece, just about all luxurious rugs are made to feature stunning designs that are often based on a story that has been passed down through the generations.

If a striking luxury rug is what you are looking for, you should consider buying a rug designed with a regional style like classic Persian or bold Afghan. Owning something like this is a truly one-of-a-kind statement piece.

While a bold culturally inspired rug might be something that appeals to many buyers, not everyone has the desire to adorn their space with something over the top or wildly colourful. These days, there are plenty of luxury rugs that are modern and inspired by the minimalist trends which remain so popular. 

• A Playful Palette of Colour

The colour of a rug can be an important contributing factor when your goal is to buy something luxurious. 

Most luxury rugs are created using natural dyes, which offer a richness and depth of colour that synthetic dyes simply can't replicate. Not only do these colours really pop, but they also age beautifully, developing a unique patina over time, something that will give the rug its antique look.

The rug colour itself will also affect its luxury status. Neon or “gaudy” colours don’t hold the same allure as the more commonly accepted luxury colours, such as deep reds, browns, blues, and yellows tend to.

• The Luxury of a Flatweave

A higher flatweave is a common feature when it comes to luxury rugs.

Unlike plush rugs, flatweave rugs are woven, not knotted. The threads are intricately interlaced to create a thin, lightweight surface which is perfect for high-traffic areas. Flatweaves can be used to create bold designs and they can be made using natural fibres, adding a touch of texture to your space while at the same time giving the rug that luxurious look.

These rugs are generally synonymous with a lush underfoot feel with the higher weave providing extra softness.

• The Rug Finishing

When you are looking for a luxury rug, you need to pay close attention to how the rug has been finished off, as these finer, often forgotten details will tell you if the rug has been well made or hurriedly put together.

A well-finished fringe or a hand-bound selvedge (the edge of the rug) can add character to a rug while also speaking volumes to its quality.

• The Rug’s History

Luxurious rugs often have a rich history, and if you are buying one with the hope that it will become a sound financial investment, the history of the rug is an important contributing factor. Persian and Oriental rugs have a fascinating history, which is partly what makes, and keeps, these rugs popular.

If this is important to you, you should take the time to explore the origins of your rug, which includes where it was made, the techniques used, and the cultural significance of its design. This will add a layer of depth and appreciation to your purchase.

 

Choosing the Perfect Luxury Rug for You

 

Now that you can identify the qualities that make a rug look and feel luxurious, here are some additional factors to consider when making your choice:

• The size is important: Before you make your purchase, you must measure your space carefully to ensure the rug complements the room and not overwhelms it. Luxury rugs come in all shapes and sizes and can be placed using the same tips and tricks used for any other rug.
• Think about colour coordination: You need to consider your existing décor and how the colour of the rug will tie the space together. Your rug will stand out for all the wrong reasons if you decide to add it to a space with a colour scheme that doesn’t suit it.
• Put functionality first: Most buyers look at a luxury rug and only think about the aesthetics or how it will feel when walked on. But you should also give some thought to the intended use of the rug. Some luxury rugs might not be the most durable, so if you are going to be placing the rug in a high-traffic area, you might benefit from purchasing a more durable one.
• Give the rug professional care: Luxurious rugs deserve proper care, which means you should invest in a good rug pad and regular cleaning to ensure your it stays beautiful.
• Buy from the right place: Luxury rugs are not sold in your everyday shop. If you want to be guaranteed that the rug you buy is the real deal and will meet your expectations entirely, you must buy it from a reputable seller.
• Investing in a Lasting Legacy

A luxurious rug isn't just a floor covering; it's an investment.

With its desirable appeal and superior quality, a luxurious rug can become a treasured possession that adds warmth, character, and a touch of the extraordinary to your space. And if you choose the right luxury rug, it could become something of a family heirloom.

At Rugs Original, we have a selection of exquisite rugs for sale in South Africa, including a wide variety of the highest quality luxury rugs. And if you need help, our friendly team can guide you through the selection process and help you find a stunning luxury rug to perfectly suit both your space and your budget.