Yes, you can put carpets on carpet, typically by using an area rug over existing wall-to-wall carpeting.
Here's a breakdown of why and how:
Why Put a Rug on Carpet?
- Adding Warmth and Comfort: According to the reference, placing an area rug over carpet is a simple and cost-effective way to add extra warmth, luxury, and coziness to a room.
- Defining Spaces: Area rugs can help create distinct zones within a room, especially in open floor plans. For example, you could define a play area for children or create a conversation space.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: They can add visual interest, color, and texture to a room, personalizing the space and reflecting your style.
How to Place a Rug on Carpet
Considerations:
- Rug Size: Choose a rug that's appropriately sized for the area you want to define and that doesn't overwhelm the existing carpet.
- Rug Thickness: Thinner rugs are generally better on top of carpets, as thick rugs might become a tripping hazard or unstable.
- Rug Pad: While it may not be required, a rug pad can still be helpful to prevent slipping, especially if the carpet underneath is thick or plush, it can also reduce rug movement.
- Pile Height: Consider the pile height of both your carpet and rug. A high-pile rug on a high-pile carpet might be too bulky and unstable. You can have an unstable surface if both your carpet and rug are plush. It may be better to have your rug have a lower pile height.
Practical Insights:
- Layering Textures: Combine different textures to add depth and visual interest. For instance, a woven rug on a plush carpet could create a nice contrast.
- Experiment with Patterns: Don't be afraid to play with patterns and colors to achieve the desired look.
- Protect Your Carpet: Placing a rug over the carpet may offer an extra layer of protection to your existing carpet, especially in high traffic areas.
Example Use Cases:
- Living Room: Use a large area rug to define the seating area in a living room.
- Bedroom: Add a smaller rug beside a bed for added warmth underfoot.
- Kids' Room: Use a play rug to define a play area for your children.
- Open Plan Living: Create different zones within the room with different area rugs.
In conclusion, putting a rug on carpet is a feasible and often beneficial option for adding style and function to a space.
