Finding the Perfect Fit: How to Choose A Rug Size for Your Space

You want to learn the fundamental principles of how to choose a rug size that fits your space perfectly.  

In this post, you will learn the rules for how to choose a rug size for any space in your home, from your living room, dining room, to your bedroom.  

Decorating can be challenging, from choosing wall paint to selecting a rug, which can be unnerving; however, after learning these principles, you will confidently select the perfect rug for your space. 

Mastering Rug Sizing: A Comprehensive Guide on How to Choose the Perfect Rug Size for Your Space

Assessing Your Living Room Layout to Determine Your Rug Size

Start by assessing the layout of your living room. Take note of the placement of your furniture, including your sofa, chairs, and coffee table. Determine whether you want your area rug to fit entirely under the furniture or if you prefer it to anchor the seating area.

Area rugs can help separate areas in a large open floor plan, such as your living room and dining room, while creating a sense of harmony in your space. 

Consider Rug Placement for Your Living Room 

If you want the rug to fit under all the furniture, opt for a size that allows for at least 8-12 inches of rug to extend beyond the edges. This ensures a cohesive and balanced look while providing a soft landing for your feet.  Let us look at various size rug layouts:

10′ × 14′ Rug 

A 10′ × 14′ rug fits in a large room that is at least 11.5 feet to 15.5 feet.  Allow for 18 to 36 inches of visible floor space between the perimeter of the rug and the wall.  Pro Tip:  Use seating space to determine placement; you do not have to start from the center of the room. 

9′ × 12′ Rug

A 9’ x 12′ rug fits perfectly in a 12′ x 18′ or larger living room, or an open floor plan space.  This size rug is ideal for anchoring the seating area, as it is large enough to accommodate all your furniture and home decor elements, defining your space while adding texture and coziness to your living room area. 

8′ x 10′ Rugs

An 8’x10′ rug fits nicely in an 11’x13′ or slightly larger room, or an open floor plan space.  In a well-defined living room area, the best layout leaves a 12″ – 18″ border of flooring around your rug, which creates a cozy, inviting space. 

6′ x 9′ Rugs

A 6′ x 9′ area rug works best in a living room space measuring 11′ x 13′ or smaller. This leaves approximately 2 feet of flooring bordering the rug on each side, creating a uniform and cohesive look. 

5′ x 7′ Rugs

This 5’x7′ rug creates a similar layout to the 6’x9′ layout, except the furniture is closer to the edge of the rug.  Consider other creative ways to utilize a 5’x7′ rug, such as placing it underneath a coffee table or using it with two comfortable chairs that sit almost entirely on the rug.  

4′ x 6′ Rugs

A 4’ x 6′ rug should be big enough to cover most of the floor area of a small apartment-size living room. It is also a great addition to any other living space, such as the area under the coffee table in front of the couch. 

3′ x 5′ Rugs

A 3′ x 5′ rug can tie two pieces of furniture together, for instance, a comfortable chair and a pouf or cushion. Also, this look works well in a large bedroom as a reading area. 

Rugs for Your Hallway or Entryway

For hallways, you can create a welcoming feel and protect the flooring in high-traffic areas. An ideal rug is a runner, which should be long and narrow, leaving a few inches of flooring visible on each side.

In entryways, use a rug that fits the scale of the foyer–it should not overpower the space but should be large enough to catch debris from shoes.  

Depending on the size of your hallway, 2.5′ x 7′, 2.5′ × 10′, and 2.5′ × 12′ will fit nicely in your home’s corridors.  As for entryways, 4’ x 6′ or 5’ x 7′ rugs will work well.

Area Rugs for Your Dining Room

Area Rugs for a large dining room table 

A table for eight or more fits nicely on a 9’ x 12′ or 10′ x 14 ′ rug, offering enough room for the entire dining table set to be placed on the rug, creating a focal point while anchoring the space. 

Area Rugs for a Medium Dining Room Table

A dining table for six fits best on an 8′ x 10′ or 6′ x 9′ rug. Additionally, this allows chairs to move in and out comfortably while staying on the rug. 

Rugs for a Round Dining Table 

A round rug works well with a round dining room table because it creates a cohesive and symmetrical look. An 8-foot rug works well under a medium-sized table, while a 10-foot rug fits nicely with a larger dining room table set.  

Ideal Rugs for Your Bedrooms

Rugs for a King Size Bed

For a king bed, a rug should extend at least 18-24 inches beyond the sides and foot of the bed. A 9′ x 12′ or 10’ x 14′ rug creates a cozy, soft surface around the bed. 

Rugs for a Queen Bed

Similar-sized rugs can be used for a queen bed, 9’ x 12′, 10’ x 14′, in addition to an 8′ x 10′, which will give at least 3 feet around the border of the bed.  

Rugs for a Full-Size Bed

Rugs for a Twin Bed

There are a lot of rug layouts when choosing rugs for your twin bed. You can select a variety of rug sizes depending on the look you want to achieve; for instance, an 8’ x 10′ rug, a 6’ x 9′ rug, or a 5′ x 7′ rug all fit best under a twin bed, leaving ample room around the floor to anchor the bed. 

Rugs for Two Twin Beds

For two twin beds, the best option is to place a 3′ x 5′ rug between them, creating a cohesive look.  

Tips for Buying a Rug

Measure Your Space

Before purchasing a rug, measure your living room for size. Use a painter’s or a measuring tape to outline the desired rug dimensions on the floor, considering any obstructions such as doorways or vents. 

Last, consider rug pads, which add cushioning and keep the rug from slipping. 

Experiment with Rug Shapes 

While rectangular rugs are the most common choice for living rooms, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes, such as round or square rugs. For instance, round rugs can add visual interest and break up the angular lines of the furniture. 

If you still need to decide what rug shape, color, or style to choose, check out this rug quiz. 

Finalize Your Decision 

Once you’ve considered all the factors, select the rug size that best suits your space.

Remember that a well-chosen rug can tie the entire room together, creating a cohesive and harmonious space for you and your guests to enjoy.

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