How to Create a Color Palette From a Rug

A colorful anchor piece is all you need to create a one-of-a-kind space.

By: Brian Henderson

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Photo By: Tessa Neustadt

Rug as Inspiration

It can be difficult to choose a color palette for a room, but sometimes all you have to do is look down! You can thoughtfully use shades from your rug to fill the entire space.

Think Outside the Tone

Even if your rug is mostly one color, feel free to use the accent colors as a base. Just because the overall tone may be red doesn't mean you have to bring that into every piece.

Pick a Color

Choose your favorite color from the rug and use it for your anchor piece. A dark blue for a large piece like a sofa can serve as your touchstone.

Accent to Anchor

Even though it may only be an accent color on the rug, you can make your anchor piece the major color to bring into your space.

Balance With Neutrals

It's always good to bring in some neutral tones to balance out the color of the anchor piece. Shades of gray, white and tan blend seamlessly and give the eye a rest.

More Accents

Try another accent color for a large piece. The small hints of green from the rug make a big impact when translated into a chair.

Don't Match Too Much

Don't be too precious with matching the exact color from the rug. Sometimes just a hint can do the job.

All About Balance

Make sure to mix warm and cool tones. This will balance out the space and give it depth.

Leave the Walls Neutral

Keep the walls neutral when using so much colors throughout the space. It will help even out the palette.

Wood is Your Friend

Wood works with any color palette!

Antique Decor

A rustic antique piece can add depth to a space. The organic vibe helps it feel lived in.

Black Base

Every color palette needs some black. It goes with everything and will really ground the space.

Family Keepsakes

Books and family photos help to make the space feel "real" and not too staged.

Spread the Love

Pepper accents from the rug evenly around the room. You want to avoid areas with too much of one color in the same vignette.

Finish Strong

Finish with the boldest, scariest colors in small pops. You can bring those fun colors using flowers, plants or books.

How to Create a Color Palette From a Rug

Related To:

Shop This Look

Rug as Inspiration

Think Outside the Tone

Pick a Color

Accent to Anchor

Balance With Neutrals

More Accents

Don't Match Too Much

All About Balance

Leave the Walls Neutral

Wood is Your Friend

Antique Decor

Black Base

Family Keepsakes

Spread the Love

Finish Strong

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