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.....

I absolutely agree that rugs can totally change the feel of a room! In my living room, I chose a deep navy blue rug, quite similar to the one in your photo. I picked it because it adds richness and contrast against lighter walls and furnishings, and it makes the space feel cosy yet elegant.

Ah - that's because the old one got too long. Here's the new one - can't believe we're at Part 3! Almost there - I so want to move in now... Thanks for reading: looking forward to your comments! And I still need a rug (several, in fact!) https://www.houzz.co.uk/discussions/victorian-renovation-in-london-part-3-finish-line-dsvw-vd~5007838

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.