The arrival of autumn and cooler evenings is a time for cosying up and making your home feel as comfortable as possible. Why not add some extra warmth underfoot and invest in a new rug? With so many options out there, it can be hard to pick the right one, so follow my advice to help you solve the rug puzzle.

Define your space
A rug can completely change the feel and shape of a room. In a living room, a rug placed beneath a sofa and chairs creates a cosy seating area. Placed under a dining table and chairs it will add definition to a dining area.

A soft sheepskin rug at each side of the bed gives a bedroom a luxurious feel, while a bright coloured runner in a hallway always looks welcoming. I have a crimson red and teal patterned one I found in IKEA – it really gives my entrance a feeling of warmth.

Size matters
Size is key, so please do avoid a small ‘floating rug’ island in the middle of a room with a coffee table marooned on the top – it will look lost and unfinished. When choosing a rug, bigger is always better, so always measure your space before you buy.

A question of pattern
A bold coloured or patterned rug can really create an impact and be the defining feature in a room. One that is self-patterned or in a muted coordinating colour will tie a scheme together.

Check out the Internet or your favourite online retailer for up-to-the-minute furnishing trends. A friend recently bought a black and white Moroccan-style patterned rug for her sitting room, and it really updates the look of the room.

Which material?
Once you start looking there is a bewildering choice of rugs out there, but you don’t need to go for the luxury option. Interiors expert Michelle Ogundehin’s top money saving tip is to search out large carpet remnants in the best quality wool and have them professionally bound in a contrasting or toning colour.

If you love the natural look, bound pieces of sisal and hemp are always a popular option, and great for layering up too. I have one in my dining area leading to the garden.

Choosing the right rug for you
Deciding on patterned or plain, bold or coordinating is really down to personal preference and how you want your room to look. If you love a mid-century theme, a monochrome Moroccan rug will create the right look.

If vintage is more your style, search out a faded Turkish-style kelim in your local charity shop, or if you prefer a contemporary feel, stripes are having an interiors moment.

And don’t forget to add a non-slip gripper on a polished floor – you don’t want your new rug to slide around like a banana skin!