The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Rug Size for Your Home
Choosing the right size rug for your space is simple when you follow some basic guidelines. Julie from JMS Style & Design, a qualified interior designer in Brisbane, outlines the top tips for selecting a rug for different spaces.
Image courtesy of Armadillo | River Nook Natural & Indigo
These guidelines ensure your rug complements your room's size and layout while enhancing its overall aesthetic. These guides are flexible to suit your unique space and preferences;
1. Large Living Area
In a large living area, aim to buy a rug large enough to fit all pieces of living area furniture on top. Ensure there's sufficient space between the furniture items to avoid a cramped look. In an open-plan living space, a larger rug helps define the 'living area' zone.
2. Medium Living Area
In a medium-sized living space that won’t accommodate a larger rug with all your furniture placed on top, you will want a rug that is large enough for at least the front legs of all furniture to sit on the rug. This will help the space look larger whilst also creating a sense of warmth and coziness.
3. Small Living Area
In a small living area, place a rug under the coffee table with enough rug extending under your feet to provide warmth and comfort.
4. Dining Areas
For dining areas, select a rug that allows dining chairs to sit fully on top, even when pulled out. Maintain a uniform distance around the table and chairs. Choose a low-pile rug for easier cleanup and consider protecting it against spills and remember that choosing a rug that is too small can become a trip hazard with your dining chairs getting caught.
5. King or Queen Bedroom
In a normal-sized bedroom, place the rug under approximately two-thirds of the bed, leaving 25-30cm between the rug and the front of the bedside tables. Extend the rug at least 50cm from the sides of the bed for a luxurious feel. Consider extending the rug further if you have wider bedside tables or additional furniture at the end of the bed.
6. Twin Bedroom
In a room with two single beds, place a runner or a small rug in the middle or to the side of the beds. Ensure the rug provides a comfortable resting place for your feet and maintains symmetry in the room.
7. Kitchen & Laundry
Yes, you can have a rug in the kitchen and laundry! Rugs in these areas can soften the space and add warmth. Choose durable materials like jute and opt for runner-style rugs.
Whatever the room, the general rule is the larger the room, the larger the rug. A bigger rug in a spacious room helps define specific areas and creates 'zones.' Conversely, smaller rooms benefit from smaller rugs, making them feel more expansive without overwhelming the space.
In all instances, the use of a non-slip rug underlay will extend the life of your rug, hold it in place and protect your flooring. It’s well worth the investment and they aren’t highly expensive.
Choosing the right rug size is straightforward with these guidelines. However, deciding on the perfect rug can be more challenging. If you're having trouble making the final decision, reach out to JMS Style & Design for a Design Advice Session. Sometimes, all you need is a professional second opinion to create a space you'll love.
