Cool Threads: Shag Rugs Stage a Comeback
See Why You May Want to Sink Your Toes Into Some Deep-Pile Carpet Again
Shawn Gauthier
June 22, 2011
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected,... More
Do shag rugs have you itching with 1970s memories of wood paneling, lava lamps, burnt orange everything and foil wallpaper? You’re not alone: For years I would spot a shag rug and instantly remember Marcia Brady getting nailed in the nose with a football. However, it’s time to break free of those associations: the shag rug is back, and with an entirely new attitude. It turns out the ‘70s decor fad has an alter ego that’s not only been sneaking back into our homes, but sneaking back in with a stylish decor vengeance.
You may be surprised at what these photos hold; whether the overall look is contemporary, eclectic or even traditional, the shag rug is staking its claim. Wondering if you can work one into your current decor? I think the chances are right on.
You may be surprised at what these photos hold; whether the overall look is contemporary, eclectic or even traditional, the shag rug is staking its claim. Wondering if you can work one into your current decor? I think the chances are right on.
Look closely: This picture features not one, but two perfectly executed shag rugs (the second is beneath the dining table toward the back). I’m telling you, once you sink your feet back into that shag rug, it’s hard to stop at one. If you do use more than one, switch up the colors to better define different areas in open rooms.
Contemporary furnishings; check. Eclectic accessories; check. Shag rug? Better believe it. Though texture is achieved in this room through the varied patterns, the shag rugs warms it up and creates a cozy, livable feel.
Didn’t think boldly colored shag rugs still had a place in today’s design? Think again: this bright pop of green is playful beneath this dining table, and it helps to separate the dining space from the living area. The consistency of the shag rug breaks up the cool appeal of the flooring.
Is there any place you’d rather be than this bedroom on a Sunday morning? The all-white color scheme is so soothing, and the shag rug provides great texture and the perfect landing pad for cold morning toes.
Black carpeting can be hard to pull off, but when it’s a shag rug, it’s a whole new story. The shag’s “messy” quality is an unexpected yet interesting complement to these contemporary, clean furnishings.
Bet your bottom dollar you’re looking at wall-to-wall shag carpeting. And, it’s quite spectacular. Though hardwood floors generally rule out wall-to-wall carpeting in today’s décor, if you really want to soak in a certain feel, sometimes it’s best to go all out. When wall-to-wall shag carpeting meets traditional floral wallpaper paired with contemporary furnishings, you’ve got an eclectic room that exudes chic-ness.
The aesthetic of this room could have gone in two directions depending on rug choice: clean and comfortable, or clean and comfortable with a genius dose of retro personality. I think the latter was definitely the way to go.
Sometimes you just need a little circular shag rug to complete a hallway. I love how this guy complements not only the color scheme but hole in the wall, as if it fell right out.
Yes, this is happening. Traditional furniture is surrounding a shag rug. And, it’s working (quite well, in my opinion). You want to achieve a warm, comforting feeling in a bedroom, and sometimes traditional furniture can feel stark. But, when paired with a shag rug, both the look and room feel inviting and fresh.
I still can’t get over how chic shag rugs look when mixed into contemporary décor. By choosing a rug large enough to include all the furniture, the living room feels like its own intimate area. By choosing a shag rug, it gains a funky, eclectic personality.
Are you ready for this? Not only do we have shag carpeting, but we’ve got wood paneling. If this isn’t a hint that the ‘70s are back in swing, then I don’t know what is. However, this certainly isn’t the set of Happy Days: by pairing the wood paneling with a neutral shag rug, midcentury lamp and clean-lined table, the look feels more calm and soothing instead of dark and depressing.
With a color scheme based in neutrals and clean lines throughout, this space craved a little texture. What better way to treat the toes than this scrumptious shag rug at the foot of the bed.
Did I manage to get you thinking seriously about shag rugs? (Or have you at least thrown Abba back on your dusty hi-fi back on to get in the spirit?) Regardless, check out a few products on the market today that can help you make the shag look happen in your home. This Nesta rug is all sorts of shagalicious.
Weary about committing to an entire carpet? Get shaggy with the Shaggy Multi Pillow for just a hint of playfulness.
Amp up your shag style with Zag-Shag Rug from Anthropologie. I love how this guy layers texture on texture by including a pattern in the shag.
Calypso St. Barth
You can't go wrong with a shag pouf! It's fun and offers extra seating without taking up too much space. The perfect shag addition.
More:
21 Ways to Arrange Carpet Tiles Like a Pro
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I love shag carpet. Good shag carpet, that is. Not the old school multi color shag. I love the use of shag in all of these room designs.
I just bought a cream color shag area rug for my living room and I just love it. It adds some texture and style to the room. I bought a beautiful new dark wood and metal coffee table and my dark area rug that I originally had would make the table disappear. This cream color shag makes it a feature.
There is nothing like a Moroccan rug to give a room an eclectic makeover that is rooted in style and sustainability. I invite you visit my online store and explore a unique collection of handcrafted Berber treasures. Here is a glimpse of some popular ones
https://bohoconvention.com/products/beni-ourain-rug-deemah