What Interior Designers are Saying About Rugs Trends in 2026

Recently, Veranda published an article, "10 Rug Trends Designers Say Are Already Dominating 2026," suggesting "the best design ideas are hiding underfoot." Although not every one of the 10 trends included natural fiber rugs, the article featured many very insightful comments we thought were worth sharing.

The Foundation of a Room

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Amy Aidinis Hirsch, an interior designer in Greenwich, Connecticut, kicks off the article by sharing, "A rug is the foundation of a room, literally and visually. When you walk into a room and feel something pure and tactile underfoot, it registers immediately. That is what makes a space feel current and considered rather than assembled."

Natural Fibers in Unexpected Weaves

In the article, she also predicts that an emerging trend we'll be seeing is natural fiber rugs in unexpected weaves. She says, "Gone are the days of the predictable diamond pattern. The new offerings are sophisticated, varied and genuinely beautiful."

She adds that we should be looking for unconventional takes on the classics, like handwoven jacquard in 100% jute and twisted sisal.

We'll definitely be on the lookout for that.

Spaces That Feel Lived In

The Andes Hand Woven Natural Jute Rug > makes the perfect foundation for your personalized space 

In speaking about the current popularity of antique and vintage rugs, designer Kate Hartman of Colorado offers some design trends insights that we believe apply to natural fiber rugs, too. She says, "People are craving spaces that feel layered, personal and lived-in rather than overly styled or 'perfect'."

She adds that introducing subtle variation in color and texture (a characteristic antique and natural fiber rugs share) gives a room a sense of authenticity, explaining, "In many ways, it acts as the foundation for a space that feels collected over time rather than designed all at once."

Columbus, Ohio designer Erin Hackett Nordholt of Hackett House Studio cites a trend we're also seeing, saying, "More people are starting to recognize that many modern, low-cost rugs simply aren't made to last."

The Wrong Rug Theory

The Andes Hand Woven Ivory Jute Rug > makes the perfectly right "wrong rug" in a more formal setting

Northern Virginia designer Lauren Wodicka of LBW Studio shares that we'll be seeing more rugs that introduce an element of surprise. She likens the "wrong rug theory" to fashion's "wrong shoe theory," whereby, for example, pairing sneakers with a dress can result in something unexpected and wonderful.

She explains, "Don't feel a rug must match the room's formality. In a formal dining room with patterned wallpaper and classic furnishings, a natural fiber rug can soften the composition and bring a bit of earthiness underfoot." 

She goes on to say that a "counterintuitive" rug choice can keep a space from feeling "overly previous," commenting, "That subtle tension makes a space feel thoughtful and alive."

Texture and Craftsmanship

Offering more on what clients are requesting, Indianapolis designer Tiffany Skilling comments, "People are craving spaces that feel personal and layered rather than overly polished. Richly textured pieces bring depth and authenticity to a room and work beautifully alongside traditional furnishings."

She goes on to say, "We spend time educating our clients on traditional weaving techniques so they understand the craftsmanship and investment that go into the piece."

Thank you, thank you, Tiffany.

Go Bigger

We often talk about the "design rule" for rugs that says that a rug should be large enough so that at least the front legs of all seating are on it. Similarly, a rug beneath a dining table should be large enough so that all chair legs are still on it when chairs are pulled out.

Barrett Oswald, a designer from Westchester County, New York goes even further suggesting, "Oversized rugs have become really popular lately. Instead of a small rug floating in the middle of the room, people are going much bigger so all the furniture can sit comfortably on it."

He notes that this trend makes a room feel put-together, but not stuffy.

Invest in Quality

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And finally, speaking about a trend that's near and dear to our hearts, the article shares that designers are begging you to invest in high-quality rugs rather than budget-friendly options.

Columbus, Ohio designer Erin Hackett Nordholt of Hackett House Studio comments, "More people are starting to recognize that many modern, low-cost rugs simply aren't made to last."

And designer Lauren Wodicka (who shared the "wrong rug theory" earlier in the article) adds "Overly distressed faux-vintage synthetic rugs, machine-made polyester or polypropylene oriental reproductions, feel flat and uninspired. I would never suggest them."

She concludes, "Today, people are drawn to timeless, well-crafted pieces that bring warmth, personality, and depth to a room."

We were delighted to discover this article because it validates one of the reasons we are so passionate about handcrafted natural fiber rugs at Natural Rug Co.: They're never trendy, but always effortlessly on-trend.