Wide plank hardwood floors are a showstopper on their own—but when paired thoughtfully with area rugs and textiles, they create a layered, inviting look that elevates any interior. Whether you’re designing a cozy winter retreat or a breezy summer space, the right rug can add contrast, texture, and warmth while still letting the natural beauty of your floors shine through.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to select rugs and textiles that complement wide plank flooring, including tips for size, style, and seasonal swaps.
Start with the Grain: Let the Floor Lead
Wide plank floors offer visual depth through their long lines and expressive grain patterns. Rather than competing with these natural features, rugs should highlight them. Choose area rugs that add softness and color while allowing portions of the floor to remain visible—especially along the perimeter of the room.
Neutral rugs in natural fibers like jute, sisal, or wool pair beautifully with rustic or wire-brushed finishes, while hand-knotted Persian or Oushak rugs can bring richness and contrast to smoother, contemporary planks. If your flooring has variation in tone or character (like live sawn white oak), a more subdued rug can help balance the space.
Rug Size Matters: Proportions for Elegance
One of the most common design mistakes is choosing a rug that’s too small for the room. On wide plank flooring, this mistake becomes even more pronounced. The goal is to enhance the sense of scale that wide planks provide—not interrupt it.
A few quick size tips:
- Living rooms: Ensure the front legs of furniture rest on the rug. A rug that’s 8×10 or larger typically works best.
- Dining rooms: Choose a rug large enough for chairs to remain on it when pulled out—usually at least 8 feet wide.
- Bedrooms: Consider a large rug that frames the bed or two runners flanking either side.
Layering for Texture and Seasonality
Design-savvy homeowners and interior designers often layer rugs for added depth. A larger neutral base layer (like a flatweave) paired with a smaller statement rug (like a colorful vintage piece) can draw attention without covering up too much of the floor. It also allows for easy updates by swapping the top layer seasonally.
In cooler months, opt for plush, high-pile rugs that feel luxurious underfoot. Come spring or summer, switch to lightweight cotton or natural fiber rugs to brighten and freshen up the space.
Consider Floor Patterns & Finishes
If your wide plank flooring features a unique pattern—such as herringbone or chevron—you’ll want to use rugs sparingly and strategically so as not to hide these design elements. Opt for transparent textures or low-contrast colors that allow the floor’s detail to peek through.
Similarly, the sheen and tone of your finish can influence rug choices. Matte-finished floors lend themselves well to cozy, organic rugs, while high-sheen finishes can pair beautifully with sleek, modern textiles.
The Final Touch: Coordinating with Other Textiles
Rugs are just the beginning. Upholstery, throws, curtains, and pillows all play a role in harmonizing a room’s palette. When you select textiles, pull inspiration from the undertones of your flooring—warm-toned wood pairs well with earthy hues and creams, while cooler tones complement blues, grays, and soft charcoals.
Rugs and textiles are not just accessories—they’re powerful design tools that can enhance the character of your wide plank floors. With careful pairing, you can achieve a look that’s both layered and luxurious, balancing softness and structure in every room of your home.
Need help choosing a wide plank floor that will work beautifully with your interior vision? Contact the experts at Wide Plank Floor Supply—we’re happy to guide you through wood species, finishes, and design inspiration.