Why Handmade Rugs Work Beautifully in Small Rooms

Unlike mass-produced machine rugs, hand-knotted rugs offer:

• Rich, nuanced colour palettes

• Intricate detail that draws the eye

• Softness and acoustic control

• Heirloom value in even the smallest format

And because no two handmade rugs are identical, each one adds character — something especially valuable in minimalist or restricted layouts.

🛋 Tips for Decorating with Rugs in Small Spaces

1. Use Rugs to Define Zones

In open-plan studios or one-room layouts, rugs can visually separate the living, dining, and sleeping areas.

✔ A kilim runner behind the sofa or a small rug under a dining table instantly creates structure.

2. Choose Scale Over Size

It’s better to use a small rug that suits the room than to squeeze in something oversized. Let your rug float slightly from the wall to create breathing room.

✔ In a narrow hallway or kitchen galley, try a tribal runner or Afghan kilim.

3. Go Vertical with Colour

If floor space is limited, consider letting your rug’s colours influence art, cushions, and throws. This creates continuity and visual height.

4. Use Light Colours to Open the Space

Faded Sultanabads, aged Oushaks, and neutral-toned Persian rugs can make small rooms feel brighter and more spacious.

✔ Avoid heavy black borders in very tight spaces — they can visually shrink the area.

5. Layer for Texture and Personality

Even in small homes, layering a flatweave rug under a sheepskin or smaller tribal rug can add depth without clutter.

🛍 Best Rug Styles for Small Spaces

• Kilim Rugs – Flatwoven, lightweight, and vibrant — ideal for layering or narrow areas

• Afghan Tribal Rugs – Rich in character, often in smaller formats

• Persian Baluch or Qashqai Rugs – Compact, detailed, and handmade

• Antique Runners – Perfect for entryways, narrow lounges, or kitchen spaces

• Custom Rugs – Made-to-measure options ensure the perfect fit

✔ Ask us about our bespoke rug service if you need a handmade rug in a non-standard size.

🛋 Handmade Rugs for Apartments and Flats

Whether you’re renting a city flat or renovating a small home, handmade rugs are:

• Non-permanent (perfect for rentals)

• Easy to roll up and move

• Softer underfoot than hardwood or tile

• A way to inject colour without repainting

🔍 Find the Right Rug for Your Compact Space

At Sharafi & Co, we curate a diverse selection of handmade rugs for small rooms, including antique, tribal, and custom pieces. Let us help you find something that enhances your home, no matter its size.

🔗 Browse Small Handmade Rugs

✉️ info@sharafiandco.com

📞 +44 (0)20 8735 0701