How to Choose the Right Size Rug

How to Choose the Right Size Rug

When it’s rug-sizing time, folks are bursting with questions! Fear not, we’ve got some pro tips straight from the interior design playbook!

Define Dimensions

To accurately define the dimensions of a room, use a measuring tape to measure from end to end, or, for open spaces, measure the area where you intend to place a rug. We cannot stress enough how crucial it is to avoid estimating measurements. Clearly outline the space for your rug and take into account the placement of doors and their opening directions. By following these straightforward steps initially, you can shop with assurance.

Optical Illusion

Rugs have the power to create optical illusions; leverage this to enhance your space. A small rug can make a room seem smaller and disjointed. When uncertain, opt for a larger size. This choice will bring the furniture together and give the illusion of a more spacious room.

18" Rule

Maintain a minimum of 18 inches of bare floor visible around the edges of the rug. This timeless guideline applies to nearly all rooms. However, if your space is smaller, don’t hesitate to adjust this rule to suit your requirements. The essential aspect is to ensure the proportions within the area are balanced.

Screw the Rules

With all this said, keep in mind that these are general guidelines for typical room setups. If you have a unique room layout or furniture arrangement, be prepared to adapt. In the end, if you believe it looks great, trust your instincts and go for it!

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Rug Sizing Guidelines

  • ALL LEGS ARE OFF RUG

    5' x 8' RUG

    When you've got a smaller living room or prefer to keep all the legs off the rug, go with a 5' x 8'

  • FRONT LEGS ON, BACK LEGS OFF

    8' x 10' RUG

    With this size, you’ll most likely have all front legs of furniture on the rug, with the back legs off. Or just some of the front legs on the rug. An 8’ x 10’ is a very typical size rug for a living space.

  • ALL LEGS ON THE RUG

    9' x 12' RUG

    This size generally allows the back legs of every piece of furniture to sit on the rug.

  • 4 CHAIR DINING ROOM

    5' x 8' RUG

    A 5' x 8' rug is great for a smaller sized dining room with only 4 chairs.

  • 4 - 6 CHAIR ROUND DINING

    8' x 8' RUG

    *limited options for rounds typically

    Regular rugs work under square or round table too, but a round rug is a better match here.

  • 6 TO 8 CHAIRS

    9' x 12' RUG

    Typically a 8’ x 10’ or 9’ x 12’ rug will work under a dining table with six to eight chairs.

  • FULL SIZE BED

    5' x 8'

    Lay the rug horizontally under the bed, and expose some of the rug on the top too. Let your room size dictate just how much rug you want showing at the foot of the bed.

  • QUEEN SIZE BED

    8' x 10' RUG

    Just like full size beds, you’ll want to layer a rug horizontally under the bed. Both an 8’ x 10’ and 9’ x 12’ will work, but remember the larger rug has the effect of making your room appear bigger.

  • KING SIZE BED

    9' x 12' RUG

    A king size bed calls for at least and 8’ x 10’ and usually a 9’ x 12’. Anything smaller will appear out of proportion.

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More Designer Tips + Tricks

  • How to Choose the Right Size Rug

    When it’s rug-sizing time, folks are bursting with questions! Fear not, we’ve got some pro tips straight from the interior design playbook! Define Dimensions To accurately define the dimensions of...

    How to Choose the Right Size Rug

    When it’s rug-sizing time, folks are bursting with questions! Fear not, we’ve got some pro tips straight from the interior design playbook! Define Dimensions To accurately define the dimensions of...

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