The best rugs for your design style

A well-chosen rug doesn’t just complete a room — it defines it. The right texture softens, the right pattern anchors and the right size makes everything feel intentionally placed. But choosing one is also one of the easiest places to feel stuck. Between size, color, texture and pattern, a lot is riding on that one foundational piece. 

That’s where Ernesta comes in. As a destination for beautifully designed, custom-sized rugs, we make it effortless to find a piece that not only matches your style but fits your space perfectly. Below, we break down how to choose a rug that highlights your home’s unique aesthetic, from mid-century modern to timeless traditional. Think of it as a roadmap to creating a home that feels curated, inviting — and just like you. 

Mid-century modern design is all about clean lines, sculptural silhouettes and a warm, organic palette. It has that unmistakable “effortlessly cool” energy — think unfussy but curated, modern but nostalgic.

For furniture: Look for furniture with tapered legs, smooth wood finishes (walnut is a classic) and low, streamlined profiles. Fabrics like textured wovens, leather and tweed fit beautifully here. A mix of rounded shapes, such as an arched floor lamp or a curved sofa, keeps the look soft and livable. And don’t be afraid to combine vintage finds with contemporary pieces, as the mid-century look thrives on character.

For accents: Keep the color palette warm and muted: earthy terracotta, mustard, sage and rich browns. Brass and matte black accents are both at home in this style. Artwork with geometric shapes or abstract forms reinforces the aesthetic without overwhelming the space. For lighting, think tripod lamps, globe pendants or sculptural sconces. Textures like ceramic, boucle and warm wood add depth that makes the space feel collected rather than thematic.

For rugs: Try Marguerite in linen for extra texture, Celeste in latte for retro glamour, Leia in espresso for a Moroccan-inspired moment, Eleanor in ivory for a geometric twist or Waverly in platinum for modern organic mix.

Traditional interiors embrace symmetry, craftsmanship and timeless materials. The look is polished but feels inviting, warm and steeped in subtle elegance.

For furniture: Choose furniture with refined detailing: rolled arms, tufted backs, carved wood legs and rich upholstery like velvet, linen or basketweave textures. Wingback chairs, panel-back dining chairs and well-structured sofas all support this aesthetic. To keep the look current, balance ornate pieces with simpler silhouettes so the room feels intentional but not cold or untouchable.

For accents: Soft neutrals, layered patterns and rich materials shine in this style. Think chinoiserie ceramics, brass candleholders, tailored drapery and framed artwork with classic motifs. Fabrics like damask, pinstripes and florals mix effortlessly, especially when kept within a cohesive color palette. Lighting with pleated shades or antique brass details adds another layer of charm. Add a touch of glossy paint on trim, frames or furniture, to bring extra drama and sophistication.

For rugs: Try Dalia in any shade for a touch of Persian elegance, Winston in ivory for earthy elegance and ease, Harker in chai for classic natural texture and pattern, Oliver in sky for a fresh take on the Greek key or Jude in linen for a neutral take.

Coastal style is relaxed, breezy and sunlit. And it doesn’t have to be a literal interpretation of a beach house. Instead, think fewer seashells and more along the lines of effortless and serene. It’s all about light, texture and a palette that mirrors the shoreline.

For furniture: Opt for pieces that feel airy and easy. Slipcovered sofas, woven accent chairs, natural wood side tables and light oak or whitewashed finishes create that coastal ease. Fabrics should feel comfortable and durable — linens, cottons and soft performance blends work beautifully. Rounded edges and open-weave details (like cane or rattan) give the room a gentle, vacation-like sense of calm.

For accents: Choose colors inspired by the coast: soft blues, sandy neutrals, warm whites and sea-glass greens. Add plenty of natural texture: jute baskets, ceramic vases, driftwood tones and gauzy curtains that let the light in. Nautical stripes, subtle checks and organic patterns add quiet personality. Lighting is key here: simple pendant lights, neutral shades or table lamps with textured bases can completely shift the vibe.

For rugs: Try Ariana in sky for a traditional take on coastal style, Calico in sky for tons of cozy texture, Gibson in navy for a classic stripe, McCannon in indigo for a moody and handsome look or Posie in flax for a classic weave in seagrass.

This look is joyful, expressive and full of personality. Embrace color with confidence, and mix shapes, textures and patterns to create spaces that feel energizing and creative.

For furniture: Choose modern silhouettes with clean lines — these give your colors and patterns a foundation that doesn’t compete. Upholstered pieces in saturated hues (like emerald, coral or cobalt) can become instant focal points. Acrylic or metal furniture can help break up the color and keep the room feeling open rather than overloaded. Don’t shy away from sculptural pieces, which will add to the sense of play.

For accents: Color is your friend here. Think vibrant art, patterned throw pillows, lacquered accessories, mixed metals and playful lighting. Bold wallpaper or an accent wall can add depth — just keep the patterns balanced with solids elsewhere. Incorporate glossy, matte and tactile finishes to create layers that feel intentional rather than chaotic. And if you’re mixing many colors, try repeating one or two throughout the room to keep everything cohesive.

For rugs: Try Oakes in moss for natural richness, Kaia in sand for a burst of unexpected pattern, Bennett in warm multi for clever use of color, Phoebe in multi for subtle pops of color or Ari in sage for a soft and versatile touch.

Modern neutral style is easy and elevated. Instead of relying on bold colors, this aesthetic uses tone, texture and shape to create visual interest. It’s minimalism that doesn’t feel stark, revealing a space that feels comfortable, warm and deeply serene.

For furniture: Look for low-profile, sculptural pieces with soft curves and clean edges. Neutral upholstery (creams, warm grays and sand tones) creates a tranquil backdrop. Bouclé, brushed cotton, performance linen and textured weaves all bring tactile dimension. Choose quality over quantity: a beautifully made sofa or a solid wood coffee table does more heavy lifting than lots of small pieces.

For accents: Layer textures to add depth: ceramic vases, chunky knit throws, matte metal hardware, natural stone bowls. Lean into a palette of soft whites, oatmeal, mushroom and subtle gray. Incorporate organic shapes such as arched mirrors, wavy-edged trays or round ottomans to keep the look from feeling too linear. When it comes to lighting, warm-toned bulbs and diffused shades soften the whole room and create a luxurious glow.

For rugs: Try Sadie in linen for a hint of classic pattern, Warren in any color for tons of coziness, Luna in latte for a sleek silky look, Sula in light gray for a sweater-inspired style or Miller in sand for a fresh take on stripes.