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When we’re craving a little color at home, it often comes in one of three forms—a fresh coat of paint, an easy pillow swap, or a vibrant new artwork. But there’s one area that’s often overlooked: the floor. If your rental apartment suffers from dated carpeting or scratched boards, a punchy rug can be just the remedy to turn an ugly feature into a color-blocked statement.

A large area rug can quickly make an old room feel brand-new in the same way paint can—without all the hours spent stretched on a ladder applying coat after coat. Here are 10 options that’ll dare you to go bold.

If you have a flair for the dramatic…

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Posh Red Rug, CB2 ($249)
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This crimson rug is a maximalist’s dream. Pair it with dusty pink and rich burgundy to dial up the drama.


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If The Flintstones was your favorite show…

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Stone Rug 5, Nanimarquina ($680)
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Layer this rusty pebble-shaped rug atop all-white floors for a playful base.

If you always ask for the window seat…

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Boundary Rug, West Elm ($20)
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Reminiscent of farmlands spotted from the sky, this light yellow rug will brighten up the dreariest of rooms.

If you love feeling grass beneath your feet…

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Ines Jungle Rug, Kasthall (Price upon request)
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Not quite as good as fresh grass but a step above Astroturf, this bright green rug will remind you of a summer day. 

If tennis is your favorite sport…

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Clay Court Rug, Pieces ($240)
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No need to hit the clay courts; this tennis-inspired rug will bring the sport to you (aesthetically, at least).


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If you need a ray of sunshine…

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Handloomed Striped Viscose Rug, Anthropologie ($98)
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Give your bedroom a dose of sunshine with this mood-boosting rug from Anthropologie. You’ll always start the day on the right foot.

If you’re not much of a square…

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Circum Rug, Bolia ($1,123)
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Who said rugs need to be rectangular? This round sorbet rug breaks all the rules in the best way. Layer it on top of light hardwood floors in a large entryway or by your bed. 

If you’re feeling blue…

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Indigo Tatami Rug, Nanimarquina ($1,570)
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There’s nothing melancholic about this punchy Yves Klein Blue rug, which would be best combined with black and white accents (and a pop of red). 

If you always spill red wine…

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Stilla Bordeaux Rug, AYTM ($381)
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No Bordeaux spills will show on this bubble-shaped rug. It’s the perfect conversation piece for your next wine and cheese soiree.


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If your space needs a sweet touch…

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Hexagon Cotton Candy Swizzle Blind Rug, Kinder Ground ($450)
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Add a hint of playfulness with this bubblegum pink hexagonal rug. Or arrange a few together for a fun graphic statement.

See more design trends we love: It’s High Time We Treated Our Glassware as Art Is It Just Us or Are Floor Lamps Getting Wavier and Skinnier? You’ve Been Seeing a Lot of This Mirror Lately