I back no rug too - and may I make another suggestion, budget permitting? Consider getting lined AND interlined Roman blinds instead of curtains for the window. It's a very tall room but seemingly a bit "chimney-like" because of its proportions. The tall thin curtains reinforce that feeling. Some wall mounted shelves from IKEA would be a great replacement for the somewhat random bookcase too. Rug might work then with a blind and wall-mounted shelving.....

Actually the curtains look fine, better than I expected but yes a totally different style to the rug and both quite distinct patterns so clashed. I'd go with a more abstract fluid rug in similar colours and a splash of something like pale lime. blue or orange so it's not too matchy matchy. One step at a time! I've been known to buy and change sofas and rugs in my living room numerous times until I'm happy (luckily I like pre-loved things so rarely lose much, if any money on them, just takes a bit of effort. Mmm not sure but something like this? http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hk412-Grey-Red-Abstract-Funky-Large-Thick-Modern-Rug-150x230cm-Cheap-RRP-185-/400433591604?hash=item5d3bb3b534 Not necessarily this specific one (although I do like it) but examples of less defined patterns to take in the slight 'messy' style of the curtains.

I think you feel it looks too solid is because you haven’t followed through with the rest of the room, for example cushions to tie in with it. Further up these comments minnie101 has suggested some black patterned cushions which i think would lift the scheme, however if you really don’t like it then follow your heart and return it. Why keep something you don’t like? Then choose a colour-way that you prefer, such as the blue you suggested. A blue coastal theme would tie in nicely with the neutral theme you have at the moment. By the way, i got a Turkish rug from Olney Carpets in Bucks, and they let us take it home for a week to see if we liked it before buying! True service, and yes we did buy it! Of course buying online does give you that option too. I wish you lots of luck.

Presuming you are keeping the colour scheme the same anything from a Black, Slate or Silver Plush at the top end to more affordable Santa Cruz Boardwalk if you want more than one colour and more affordable.