For anyone who finds the maximalist look overwhelming, a patterned rug is a far more subtle way to introduce visual interest than committing to a printed wallpaper or a bold paint colour. As many decorators will attest, it can also help to anchor a room and form the starting point for a palette of accent colours.

‘Floors and walls take up the most surface area in a room, and floors can be incredibly impactful,’ says interior designer Natalie Tredgett, who recommends building a scheme by starting with the rug: ‘There are many options for paint colours, wallpaper and fabrics that can complement a chosen rug, which is easier than trying to find one to match an existing scheme. By starting with the rug, you can avoid the need to opt for a plain colour, allowing for a more cohesive and interesting design.’

In an already decorated room with pale, calming tones on walls and furniture, a rug can be the perfect vehicle for adding personality to lift the room without introducing visual clutter. ‘In a neutral space, a rug really can add texture, depth and interest,’ agrees interior designer Laura Stephens. Her advice, when choosing a rug, is to bear in mind that it needn’t require a statement-making design to have an impact: ‘Sometimes, a subtle border or motif on a rug with a plain background is enough to give interest and colour to a scheme without dominating it.’

Neptune’s latest collection of rugs gives a classic heritage look a contemporary twist. The rich colours and ornate motifs of traditional Persian and Turkish rugs have been tempered – with repeat patterns and softer shades that modernise the look – without cancelling their character.

As for the correct size and placement of a carpet, Stephens advises choosing one of a generous enough size to ‘ground’ pieces of furniture ‘so that they don’t appear to float around a big floor space’. ‘Rugs are particularly effective in a larger or multi-use space to “zone” specific areas,’ she adds. ‘For example, in a kitchen-diner, a rug under the dining table can define that space.’

Far from being an after thought then, a rug can be the decorative glue that holds a scheme together.

 Meet the new season rug solutions 

This season includes five exciting rug collections – the Arran, Calan, Fara, Moray and Rona – all inspired by traditional Persian rugs, featuring a mix of geometric, Aztec and mixed motif patterns. In soft shades of rust, blue, cream and orange, they bring an element of subtle colour to a room. The rugs are handwoven in India by expert weavers on authentic wooden looms and use the best natural materials such as jute and wool.

For added luxury underfoot, there are also two new plush, cosy rugs made from New Zealand wool – the Laith and the Munro – to add more texture and warmth to bedrooms and snugs. In calming, neutral shades and with a tactile bobbled texture, they work perfectly with any colour scheme.