Rugs play a crucial role in tying a room together, and when incorporated correctly, also provide comfort and sophistication to a space. Choosing the right size rug for a room can be a game-changer when it comes to interior design. Using a rug that’s too large can make a space feel smaller, whereas using a rug that’s too large can ultimately make the room feel scattered and uninviting. The right size rug will provide balance and enhance the room’s overall aesthetics. To help you make the best choice, we’ve put together a quick guide with tips on how to measure rooms for a rug and pick the perfect size.
Entry Rugs
This is the perfect area to keep it simple by only placing a small doormat in front of your door. However, if you’ve got a grand entrance or want to incorporate a larger rug, we recommend leaving 18-24″ between the edge of the rug and surrounding walls.
Tip: This is one of the areas in your home that will see the most foot traffic. Make sure to invest in a durable rug. Not sure the best type of rug to place in a high traffic area? Check out our blog on Choosing the Perfect Rug Fiber, here.
Dining Room
As a general rule, all four legs of dining chairs should remain on the rug, even when the chairs are pulled out. Measure for your rug by pulling a chair out on each side of the table, like you are going to sit down. Whatever the distance is from the table leg to the back dining chair leg, add 6″ to get your minimum length and width of your rug.
Tip: We like to make our rugs larger than the dining table by 3 feet on all four sides.
Bedroom
Bedrooms present you with a couple options on rug layout and sizing.
- Place all four legs from the bed frame and nightstands onto the rug.
- Allow lower 2/3rd of bed frame to sit on rug, while headboard and nightstands sit on the bare floor.
Tip: As a rule of thumb, the rug should extend at least 18-24″ from the sides and the foot of all beds. (8×10 rugs typically work best for a room with a queen bed, while a 9×12 rug is more ideal for a room with a king-sized bed)
Hallway
Runners are the unsung hero of the hallway world! To help with acoustics in hallways, we always recommend placing runner rugs in the space. Because hallways are very unique is sizing, a custom size runner may be your best option. Your runner should run the length of the hallway, leaving a 6″ perimeter between the rug and walls. There are a lot of beautiful options available to order in custom sizes, such as the rugs below.
Bathroom
Because these areas are subject to water, selecting the appropriate rug is essential. For decorative rugs in a bath we suggest wool, a naturally non-absorbent fiber and therefore perfect for bathroom applications.
Tip: A 2×3 or 3×5 rug is the ideal size for a single vanity. For a bathroom space with double vanities opt for a runner that is the length of both vanities, OR two matching smaller rugs that can sit independently in front of each sink.
Studio Steidley Design
Living Room
Anchor furniture by placing all legs on the rug OR you may choose to place only the front two legs of all furniture on the rug, as shown below.
Ready to invest in a new rug? Send us a message and let us guide you in your selection!
