There are several concepts or furniture types that might be considered within your office, and rugs are prominent among these. Valuable for everything from setting the aesthetic of a given space to several other themes, rugs play a major role in office design -- and a common type of rug that's utilized in many offices is the area rug.
At Urban 9-5, we're happy to offer quality rug options among our wide selection of industrial office furniture, including patchwork cowhide rugs and many others. What are area rugs, and why are they so common and useful in an office setting? Here are some basics to understand.
What is an Area Rug?
For those unaware in this realm, an area rug -- as its name indicates -- refers simply to a rug that only covers a particular area as opposed to a full room. This can be done for various reasons, but often the goal is to anchor furniture in a specific space or add some visual interest and color.
As opposed to wall-to-wall carpeting, which can be expensive and impractical for many offices, area rugs provide a more versatile and budget-friendly option. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so it's easy to find one that will fit both the style and function of your office.
Let's go over some of the top benefits that area rugs offer in an office setting.
Basic Comfort
Keeping your employees comfortable should be one of your top priorities as a business owner or manager. Studies have shown that comfortable employees are not only more productive, but also less likely to experience absenteeism and burnout. One way to achieve comfort in the office is through the use of area rugs.
Rugs can help to reduce noise levels and create a more relaxed atmosphere. They also provide extra cushioning for employees who might be standing for long periods of time. If you have employees who are pregnant or have back pain, rugs can provide much-needed support and relief.
Improved Aesthetics
The way your office looks can have a big impact on employee morale. A drab and lifeless environment is not likely to inspire anyone, but with a few well-placed area rugs, you can brighten up the space and give it a more polished look.
Not only do area rugs add visual interest to a room, but they can also help to define different areas within the office. For example, you might want to use a rug to separate the work area from the break room. This can help to create a more organized and efficient space.
Another common aesthetically-related use of area rugs is to add warmth to a room. If your office has a cold, sterile feel, a rug can help to counterbalance that and make the space more inviting.
Protection Against Damage
One of the main benefits of using area rugs in an office setting is that they can help to protect the flooring from damage. When employees are walking back and forth or dragging heavy furniture around, the floors can take a beating.
Area rugs can help to minimize this wear and tear, which can save you money in the long run. They also act as a barrier between spills and the floor, so you don't have to worry about stains or accidents creating long-term damage.
Noise Reduction
We mentioned noise reduction above, but it's important enough to deserve its own section. Rugs are fantastic for absorbing sound, which can create a more peaceful and productive work environment. If your office is located in a busy area or has a lot of foot traffic, area rugs can help to muffle the noise and give employees some relief.
Grounding Qualities
Finally, rugs provide an anchoring effect that can be helpful in an office setting. Not only do they help anchor furniture and define different areas, but they can also provide a sense of stability. This can be beneficial for employees who might feel overwhelmed or stressed in a chaotic environment.
Selecting Ideal Area Rug(s) for Your Office
There are many different types of area rugs that you can choose from, so it's important to select one that will fit the specific needs of your office. Here are some elements to be thinking about:
- Basic size and room dimensions: You'll want to make sure that the rug you choose is properly sized for the space. It should be large enough to cover the area you want, but not so large that it becomes a trip hazard.
- Material: The material of the rug can also vary, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, wool rugs are typically more expensive than synthetic rugs, but they often last longer and look better over time.
- Pile height: Another thing to consider is the pile height of the rug. A higher pile will usually be more comfortable to walk on and can help to reduce noise levels.
- Pattern: Rugs come in a variety of different patterns, so you'll want to select one that fits the overall look and feel of your office.
- Color and style: The color and style of a rug can also play a role in the overall aesthetic of the room. You'll want to choose something that complements the existing furniture and décor.
If you're looking for quality area rugs to incorporate into your office design, Urban 9-5 has a great selection to choose from. We carry everything from traditional rugs to patchwork cowhide options, so you're sure to find something that fits your needs. Browse our collection today and create the perfect space for your employees.
For more on this, or to learn about our wide selection of industrial office furniture, speak to the team at Urban 9-5 today.