Please see this for the back-story to this post. To see No.1 go here. To see No. 2 go here.

No. 3: A Great Quality Rug

A great rug is an investment and its something you will have forever. I recommend wool or sisal for your first rug purchase. I also recommend getting it for the main living area in which you spend the most time (be sure to get the proper size- don't put too small a rug in a large room, or vice versa). Wool is very durable, cleans well and will look beautiful as long as you live- if given proper care. Some designers and clients like nylon, because nylon is also durable and its very budget friendly- so there are other options if you aren't that discriminating. Also, don't forget to get a pad and liner! It really does help maintain and extend the life of a rug or carpet, and your flooring (especially wood floors).

For your first "investment" rug, don't worry about matching it to something, but consider using it as a base for your color palette. You can go neutral, or go with a classic or transitional pattern (stay away from the very contemporary and mod patterns, they will be out with last year's fashion)- don't stress too much. When it comes time to move the rug to a new location, you can be like the Europeans and juxtapose old with new for that quirky, a bit mis-matched, "passed down becase its fabulous" look.

Photo from Stark