Young House Love Has A Podcast: Episode 12 – Your Guide to Perfect Area Rugs & Insider Tips

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #12 of Young House Love Has A Podcast! If you’ve ever found yourself pondering the complexities of area rugs – from choosing the right size to harmonizing styles across adjoining rooms – then this episode is specifically crafted for you. Join us as we demystify the world of floor coverings, sharing five invaluable rug rules that will transform your approach to home decor. Beyond rugs, prepare for an engaging conversation with Jenni Pulos, the dynamic co-star of Bravo’s “Flipping Out,” who offers candid insights into navigating stressful renovations and the unique demands of reality television, all while keeping her long-time collaborator, Jeff Lewis, grounded. Jenni’s segment is packed with practical wisdom and even features a spontaneous rap with Sherry!

But that’s not all; in this jam-packed episode, we also delve into John’s latest tool obsession, taking a closer look at the power tool he’s eager to add to his workshop. We pull back the curtain on the realities of embarking on a book tour, sharing both the highs and the unexpected challenges. And for those seeking fresh greenery beyond the ubiquitous fiddle leaf fig, we explore stylish and manageable alternatives to refresh your indoor plant game. Get ready for an episode brimming with actionable advice, compelling stories, and genuine laughter, all designed to inspire your home improvement journey.

Listen to Episode #12: Rugs, Reality TV & Renovations

You can easily tune into this insightful episode through various platforms. Download it directly from iTunes, find it on Google Play, stream via Stitcher, or listen on TuneIn Radio. For immediate listening, simply hit play on the player below!

After immersing yourself in the episode, this page serves as your comprehensive resource for all the links, references, and photos we discussed.

What’s New in Our World: Travel, Inspiration & Community

• Discovering the Charm of Greenville, SC

  During this episode, we couldn’t help but gush about the incredible beauty of Greenville, South Carolina. We were utterly captivated by its vibrant downtown, stunning natural landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere. Above, you’ll see just one of the many photos we snapped – a testament to the city’s magical allure that we couldn’t stop showing everyone. For another glimpse into Greenville’s unique character, check out this awe-inspiring image we shared on Instagram: holy root system, Batman! Greenville truly offers a delightful blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure, making it a fantastic destination for anyone seeking design inspiration or a relaxing getaway.

• Recap & Future of Haven Conference

  For those immersed in the world of home blogging, DIY, and interior design, the Haven Conference is an unparalleled event. We reflect on the energy and insights gained from this year’s conference, a premier gathering for creatives and entrepreneurs in the home niche. For anyone keen on attending or learning more about this transformative event, we’re thrilled to confirm that another Haven Conference is scheduled for next summer! We’re eagerly anticipating our potential attendance, but in the interim, you can get a vivid sense of the community and camaraderie by exploring the #havenconf hashtag on Instagram, where attendees share their experiences, takeaways, and inspirational moments from the event.

Beyond the Fiddle Leaf Fig: Exploring New Greenery

• Navigating Indoor Plant Trends: Ficus Alternatives

  While the fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) has undoubtedly held its reign as the “it” plant for modern interiors, we acknowledge that it might not be for everyone – whether due to its specific care requirements or a desire for something fresh and unique. As confessed enthusiasts (not certified experts!) of the ficus genus, we’ve explored various alternatives to broaden your indoor plant horizons. Our research primarily drew from reliable sources like Wikipedia for foundational knowledge and this insightful About.com article, which offers fantastic visuals and descriptions. For instance, if you’re curious about the distinctive appearance of a cluster fig, that article provides a clear illustration.

  Beyond the fiddle leaf, consider robust and equally stylish options such as the Snake Plant (Sansevieria), known for its striking vertical leaves and minimal care needs; the ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), celebrated for its glossy, dark-green foliage and incredible resilience; or the Monstera Deliciosa, with its iconic split leaves that bring a lush, tropical vibe. For a touch of drama, the Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) offers large, banana-like leaves and can grow quite tall, creating a stunning focal point. Each of these plants provides distinct aesthetic appeal and varying levels of care, offering fantastic ways to introduce living green elements into your home without being tethered solely to the ever-popular fiddle leaf fig.

Take Five: Mastering Area Rugs for Every Room

Area rugs are more than just floor coverings; they’re foundational elements that define spaces, add warmth, introduce texture, and anchor your furniture. In this episode, we share five simple yet transformative rules to help you confidently select and place rugs in any room. These guidelines will empower you to make design choices that enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your home.

• The Golden Rule of Rug Size

  Choosing the correct rug size is paramount to making a room feel cohesive and well-designed. A common mistake is selecting a rug that’s too small, making the furniture appear to float and the space feel disjointed. Our advice? Go big! In a living room, ideally, all four legs of your main furniture pieces (sofa, armchairs) should rest on the rug. If that’s not feasible, ensure at least the front two legs of all major pieces are on the rug. This creates an inviting, anchored conversation area. For dining rooms, the rug should be large enough that when chairs are pulled out from the table, all four legs remain completely on the rug, preventing snagging and ensuring comfort. In bedrooms, a rug should extend at least two to three feet beyond the sides and foot of your bed, allowing the bed and nightstands to rest entirely or mostly on it, creating a soft landing for your feet each morning. We referenced our own home – including our office, dining room, and living room – to illustrate these principles, demonstrating how proper sizing can dramatically impact the perception of a space.

• Choosing the Right Style, Color & Shape

  Beyond size, the style, color, and shape of your rug play a pivotal role in dictating the mood and aesthetic of a room. Consider the overall style of your home – is it modern, traditional, bohemian, or eclectic? A vintage Persian rug can add warmth and character to a minimalist space, while a geometric contemporary rug can inject vibrancy into a neutral palette. When it comes to color, decide whether you want the rug to be a statement piece or a subtle backdrop. Lighter colors can make a room feel more expansive, while darker tones add coziness. Patterns can introduce visual interest, but be mindful not to overwhelm the space if you already have busy wallpaper or upholstery. Rectangular rugs are the most common, but don’t shy away from round or irregular shapes to add softness or define unique zones, especially in open-concept layouts. The key is balance and cohesion with your existing decor.

• Harmonizing Rugs in Adjoining Rooms

  For homes with open-concept living, the transition between rugs in adjoining rooms can be tricky. The goal is to create a sense of flow without making the space feel cluttered or disconnected. One approach is to use similar tones or materials for rugs in adjacent areas, even if the patterns differ. For example, natural fiber rugs like jute or sisal can provide a neutral foundation across multiple zones. Alternatively, if you opt for different styles, ensure there’s a unifying element – perhaps a shared accent color or a consistent level of formality. Avoid abrupt changes in style or color that can break the visual continuity. Thoughtful rug placement can effectively delineate different functional areas within a larger open space while maintaining an overarching sense of harmony.

• The Art of Layering Rugs

  Layering rugs is a fantastic design technique that adds depth, texture, and visual interest to a room. It’s also a clever trick for making a smaller rug feel more substantial or for adding personality on a budget. As we discussed, a larger, low-pile or woven rug can serve as a neutral base, while a smaller, more decorative rug (perhaps a vintage find or a vibrant pattern) is layered on top. This technique works particularly well when the larger rug is a solid color or a subtle texture, allowing the smaller rug to truly pop. Layering can soften hard floors, introduce new patterns and colors, and even help to anchor furniture more effectively. This creative approach allows for endless possibilities in personalizing your space, as beautifully illustrated by this example from Shelby Girard via My Domaine, demonstrating how a smaller rug can be beefed up for a space:

  (Image Placeholder – please insert image if available, as the original image was just a blank `img` tag with empty `src`)

An Exclusive Interview with Jenni Pulos from Flipping Out

We were absolutely thrilled to welcome Jenni Pulos, the beloved star from Bravo’s hit show “Flipping Out,” to the podcast. Her career spans years of high-pressure renovations and the unique dynamics of reality television, all while serving as the steadfast right-hand to Jeff Lewis. Jenni shares incredible anecdotes and invaluable advice gleaned from her experiences, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to survive (and thrive!) in the design and renovation world. Her candidness and humor are truly infectious, making for a memorable segment.

• Catch Up with Flipping Out

  If you’re not already a fan of Flipping Out, you’re missing out on a truly entertaining and insightful show about high-end home renovation. Tune in Thursdays at 9/8c on Bravo, or catch up on full episodes directly on their website. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in design, real estate, and the often-hilarious drama that unfolds behind the scenes.

• Explore Jenni Pulos’ Creative Works

  Jenni is a multi-talented individual, not only a reality TV personality and designer but also an author and recording artist! Discover her inspiring book, Grin And Bear It: How to Survive Three Husbands, Six Jobs, and One Home Renovation at a Time, filled with humorous and heartfelt advice for navigating life’s challenges. For the younger audience, or anyone young at heart, check out her delightful kids rap album, Old School Kids Beats, which promises catchy tunes and positive messages.

• Relive Our Rap Interludes

  In a fun twist, Jenni even busted a rhyme with Sherry during the interview, reminding us of some of our own past rap interludes! For a dose of nostalgia and musical fun, revisit these classic YHL rap moments: one from April Fools Day, 2013, and another from our 2014 Household Craft Challenge. These clips are sure to bring a smile to your face and showcase our lighter, more playful side.

What We’re Digging: Tools, Entertainment & Inspiration

In every episode, we share items, experiences, or ideas that have captured our interest and provided inspiration. This week, our “We’re Digging” segment highlights a covetable tool and a must-watch movie.

• John’s Latest Tool Envy: The Ultimate Saw & Stand

  John’s recent bout of “saw envy” was sparked by seeing the impressive setup used by Chris Loves Julia. He’s been dreaming of adding a powerful new saw and accompanying stand to his DIY arsenal. Specifically, the saw & stand combo they featured has caught his eye, promising enhanced precision and efficiency for future home improvement projects. It sounds like Jeremy Bower’s setup also includes this specialized stand designed to complement a miter saw, further fueling the desire for a truly capable and portable cutting station. For any serious DIYer, the right tools can make all the difference, and this combo certainly seems to be a game-changer.

• A Hilarious Escape: “Bad Moms”

  For a much-needed dose of laughter and relatable parenting humor, we highly recommend the movie “Bad Moms.” If you haven’t seen it yet, prepare for a refreshing and hilarious take on modern motherhood, with an all-star cast delivering witty performances. You can get a sneak peek at the fun with the trailer, which perfectly encapsulates the film’s irreverent spirit and heartwarming message. It’s the perfect film for unwinding and remembering that sometimes, being a “bad mom” just means being an honest and human one.

Psst- Looking for something we’ve dug in a past episode, but don’t remember which show notes to click into? We’ve compiled a master list of everything we’ve been digging from all past episodes, making it easy to find your next obsession.

*This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love and use.*