Choosing the perfect rug for your home can be quite a challenge. With so many factors to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not! We have some foolproof guidelines to help you navigate this process. And remember, if you ever find yourself stuck, don't hesitate to seek the advice of a local interior designer. Ultimately, the goal is to find a rug that not only suits your personal style but also transforms your home into a warm and inviting space for your loved ones.
How to Determine the Right Size for Your Area Rug
The layout of your room and its functionality are important factors to consider when determining the size of your area rug. Take note of where your furniture is placed, the direction of sunlight, and the flow of foot traffic. Here are some general guidelines to assist you:
- Bigger is Better: Opt for a larger rug to create a spacious and inviting atmosphere in your room.
- Leave Some Bare Floor: Keep at least 18 inches or 40cm of floor visible between the edge of the rug and the walls.
- Orient with the Shape: Consider the shape of your room when positioning the rug.
To make your decision easier, there are standard sizes available for area rugs. Take a look at the table below for reference:
A nifty trick to visualize how a rug will look in your space is to mark out its dimensions on the floor using masking tape. Some stores even offer rug loans for you to experiment with, so don't hesitate to ask for this service.
What's the Biggest Area Rug Size?
If you have a large room, you might want to consider an 12x15 ft, or 366cm x 457cm rug. This is the largest standard area rug size available, covering approximately 180 square meters, or 1938 square feet of floor space. To put it in perspective, it's about a third of the size of a basketball court!
How Big is an 8x10 Area Rug?
The 8x10 ft or 240cm x 310cm area rug is the most common standard rug size. It covers roughly 80 square feet, or 7.5 square meters of floor space, making it a versatile choice that fits comfortably in most areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, or under dining tables.
Ideal Placement of Area Rugs in a Living Room
We like to think of our luxury sheepskin rugs as "platforms for living," not just pieces of decor. They have the power to connect friends and family, creating spaces that are perfect for relaxation and gathering. When it comes to placing a rug in your living room, personal style plays a key role, but the following tips can help you achieve a balanced and curated look:
- Encompass Your Seating: Ideally, your living room rug should be large enough to accommodate all of your seating, with about 8 inches or 20cm of rug visible around the sides and back of the couch and chairs.
- Maintain Balance: In a large living room, consider placing only the front two legs of your couch and chairs on the rug to maintain balance. Avoid having some furniture fully on the rug while others are not.
- Even Distance: If using a smaller rug, arrange your seating at an even distance from the rug, approximately 8 inches or 20cm.
- Create Intimacy: Circular rugs can bring a sense of intimacy and cosiness to your living space.
How to Place a Large Area Rug?
Large area rugs provide comfort, warmth, and enhance the acoustics of a room. If your rug is large enough to accommodate all your furniture, it acts as a focal point, drawing the eye to the center of the room. To maintain a sense of space and balance, leave some space between the rug and the walls.
How Far Should a Rug be from the Wall?
To strike the perfect balance between creating a cozy environment and maintaining spaciousness, leave about 18 inches or 40cm of visible floor space between the edge of the rug and the wall.
Should an Area Rug be Centered in a Room?
While some experts suggest centering an area rug and precisely measuring distances, there are no hard and fast rules. It depends on the size and shape of your room, your furniture, personal style, and how you use the space. You can use rugs to create "zones" within a single area, such as defining a conversation corner in a large open-plan living area by placing an L-shaped couch on a rectangular rug. The key is to find the right balance and create spaces that work for you and your family.
Can You Use Two Different Rugs in the Same Room?
Absolutely! Placing two different rugs in a room is an excellent way to create distinct zones within the same space. The rugs don't necessarily have to match but should complement each other. For example, a sheepskin rug pairs beautifully with a Turkish Kilim, adding texture and color to your room.
Stylish Rug Placement in a Bedroom
When it comes to placing a rug in your bedroom, comfort and softness underfoot are key considerations. A luxurious sheepskin rug that spans the width of your bed and extends beyond is an excellent choice. Aim for about 20 inches or 50-60cm on each side so that you can sit comfortably with your feet placed on the rug. Alternatively, you can opt for two individual rugs running along each side of the bed. In either case, position the rug slightly in front of the bedside tables to maintain balance and spaciousness.
Will a 5x7 Rug Fit Under a Queen Bed?
For a queen-size bed, an 8x10ft or 244cm x 305cm rug is ideal. It provides sufficient space on each side, so when you step out of bed on chilly mornings, your feet land on the comforting warmth of the rug. However, if your bedroom is smaller, a 5x7ft or 152cm x 213cm rug will work. It will extend under the bed but won't be wide enough for you to place your feet on when getting in and out of bed.
Will an 8x10 Rug Fit Under a King Bed?
Yes, an 8x10ft or 244cm x 305cm rug will fit comfortably under a king-size bed. The next size up, a 9x12ft or 274cm x 366cm rug, is also suitable. Remember, when it comes to rugs, "bigger is better" is a good rule of thumb. If the rug is too small in relation to your bed, the room may feel imbalanced.
Hanging Rugs as Wall Art
Rugs are not just functional pieces; they are also works of art that have been cherished for centuries. If you're looking to add character to your walls, go ahead and hang a rug! It's a unique way to bring color and texture to your space.
Adding Rugs to Your Dining Room
Dining room rugs can bring style and definition to your dining space. Not only do they frame your dining table, but they also protect your beautiful wooden floors from chair marks. When selecting a rug for your dining table, it's essential to ensure that it extends about 24 inches or 60cm beyond the table's edges. This proportion creates a balanced look and allows chairs to remain on the rug even when pulled back for seating.
Remember, choosing the right rug size and placement can significantly impact the overall ambiance of your home. So take your time, consider the layout and functionality of each room, and don't be afraid to experiment with different options. With these guidelines, you'll find the perfect area rug that not only complements your personal style but also enhances the warmth and comfort of your living space.