Tatiana Kelim rug green

Two to three colours with sufficient contrast make the pattern stand out clearly. A fine grid in muted colours creates a sense of calm; large shapes in contrasting colours produce a graphic, striking effect.

Vacuum the rug regularly, following the direction of the pile, on a low setting. Blot stains immediately with a damp cloth and a drop of pH-neutral wool detergent. Leave thorough cleaning to a professional rug cleaner.

Generally speaking, yes: the clean, functional lines of mid-century furniture complement a repeating geometric pattern well.

Yes, if the patterns vary in scale: combine a large rug pattern with smaller geometric cushions or curtains. Make sure the colours coordinate so that the overall effect isn’t too busy.

Over the years, dyed wool will fade slightly when exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Turn the rug half a turn regularly to ensure the colours remain even.

That depends on the thickness. A flat-woven geometric rug, such as a kilim, allows heat to pass through easily; a thickly knotted rug retains more heat. Check the specifications for each product to see whether the underfloor heating manufacturer permits the use of rugs.

Yes. The bold shapes and colour contrasts often appeal to children.

Use a non-slip mat made of felt or rubber that is slightly smaller than the rug, so that the edges do not curl up. A non-slip mat prevents the rug from sliding on smooth floors and protects the floor from wear and tear.