Rugs have a way of shaping a space in ways people don’t always realize. They are often treated as a final decorative layer, but in reality, they play a much bigger role in how a room looks, feels, and functions. To explore that idea further, Michael Bauer, Director of Trade Relations at Feizy Rugs, is joining Star Furniture this spring for an in-store event, The 411 on Feizy Rugs. Happening on May 20 from 9-10 a.m. at Star Furniture’s West Houston location, the session will cover everything from sizing and materials to care and maintenance, giving both homeowners and design enthusiasts a clearer understanding of how to choose the right rug. You can reserve your spot and find full event details here.

Ahead of the event, we sat down with Michael to talk about how he got into the rug business, what keeps him inspired after more than 20 years, and the common mistakes people make when shopping for rugs. His perspective offers a helpful reminder that the right rug can guide the entire direction of a space, and guests will also have the opportunity to connect with the Star Furniture team during the event to explore options in person.

1. As Director of Trade Relations for Feizy, you interact with lots of interior designers around the country. What is your favorite part of the job?

Without a doubt, it all comes down to relationships. I’ve always believed this is a people-first industry at its core. I love having the opportunity to work alongside designers at every stage—from rising talent to the top names in the industry.

2. How did you get into the rug business?

Like many in this business, I didn’t set out thinking I’d end up in rugs. I got my start at a multi-line showroom at the Dallas Market Center, The Mix, where I was fortunate to have a mentor who owned a rug line and really taught me the fundamentals: construction, fiber, and maintenance. Fast forward 23 years, after working closely with interior designers across the country, I was given the opportunity to join Feizy Rugs—and it’s where I see myself for the rest of my career.

3. What do you find fascinating or inspiring about the world of rugs?

It’s the combination of art, history, and function. A rug isn’t just something you walk on—it tells a story. The fact that something so beautiful can also ground a space and make it livable, that balance is what keeps it interesting.

4. Tell us about your relationship with Star Furniture. What makes them a good business partner?

Star Furniture has been an incredible partner because they truly understand their customer and they value quality. There’s a level of professionalism and consistency there that aligns perfectly with how we approach our business at Feizy. It’s not just about selling product, it’s about creating a great experience, and they do that exceptionally well.

5. What misperceptions do homeowners have about rugs themselves? 

On one hand, they see them as just a finishing touch, something decorative you add at the end, when in reality, a rug is foundational. It grounds the space, defines how everything else comes together, and really sets the tone for the room.

On the other hand, people worry about durability, maintenance, or whether they’re making the “right” choice, and that can make the process feel overwhelming. But the truth is, when you select the right rug from the start, it actually simplifies everything. It gives you direction, confidence, and a clear path for the rest of the design. This is why I ALWAYS recommend hiring an interior designer.

6. What common mistakes do people make when purchasing a rug?  How can they avoid them? 

The biggest mistake is scale—going too small. A rug should anchor the space, not float in it. Nobody wants a postage stamp in the middle of their room. The other is focusing only on price instead of value. A well-made rug is an investment that can last for years, even decades. My advice is to think about how the rug will live in the space, not just how it looks in isolation.

7. Can you give us a sneak peek at what’s new for 2026? 

2026 is really about Neuroaesthetics. Neuroaesthetics is the study of how our brains respond to beauty, design, and sensory experiences. It explores why certain spaces, colors, textures, and forms make us feel calm, inspired, or even energized.

At its core, it connects science and design—helping us understand how the interior design of a space impacts mood, behavior, and well-being. In a practical sense, it’s why thoughtful design isn’t just about how a space looks, but how it makes you feel when you’re in it. Our product development team, led by Cameron Feizy, has a handle on Neuroaesthetics and designs accordingly. We’re seeing a continued appreciation for craftsmanship—beautiful hand-knotted pieces with incredible texture and other constructions and fibers that offer durability and accessibility. There’s also a strong movement toward more organic color palettes and designs that feel collected rather than overly designed.

8. If you could put only one Feizy rug in your home, which one would it be and why?  

That’s like asking me to pick a favorite child—but if I had to choose, I’d go with the Killian. What I love about Killian is that it leans into traditional Persian-inspired design, which we call “New Traditional”, but it doesn’t feel dated. The patterns are bold, the scale is confident, and the coloration—thanks to natural vegetable dyes, has that subtle variation that gives the rug life.

9. Rumor has it you’re a dog lover.  Care to elaborate? 

Guilty as charged. Dogs are my soul, they bring a level of joy and energy that can’t be duplicated. I am on the board of directors for a fairly new, non-profit organization, Designers for Dogs. The organization focuses on educating interior designers and the general public on pet friendly living along with, fostering and adoption.  The shelters across the country are full to the brim and our mission is to help relieve that situation. 

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your space, understanding the role of a rug can make all the difference. Events like The 411 on Feizy Rugs offer a chance to learn directly from industry experts while exploring quality pieces up close. The Star Furniture team is available to help guide you through the process, from selecting the right area rug size and material to finding a style that fits your home and lifestyle.