Rugs play a crucial role in transforming a living room into a cozy and inviting space. However, choosing the right rug size can be a daunting task. Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll walk you through five easy-to-follow formulas to help you find the perfect rug size for your living room. Plus, we've curated a list of 36 shoppable rugs that you'll fall in love with. Let's dive in!
General Rules:
Before we delve into the specific formulas, let's establish some general rules that apply to all layouts:
- Typical living room rug sizes are 8'x10' and 9'x12'.
- Ensure that your rug is at least 6" wider (8" ideally) than your sofa on both sides.
- Typically, the rug should run the length of the sofa.
- Allow for a walkway of 30"-36" between large furniture pieces (or at least 18"-24" if space is limited) to determine the appropriate rug size.
Now, let's explore the five different rug layout options with their respective formulas:
Option 1: All Legs On Board
If you have a spacious room and want all your conversational pieces on the rug, follow this formula:
- Leave around 8" of space between the edge of your furniture and the edge of the rug.
- This ensures that your furniture doesn't look like it's on the brink of falling off a platform. Think of it as your official yellow line – don't cross it!
Leave around 10"-18" of space between the rug and the wall (or up to 24" if you have ample space). This prevents the rug from overwhelming the room and looking like wall-to-wall carpeting.
Keep in mind that if your sofa is against a wall (or a few inches away from it), you can bring the rug a little closer to save valuable common area real estate.
Option 2: Front Legs Only (The EHD Go-To)
This layout is a popular choice worldwide because it allows individual furniture pieces to shine while still being cohesive. Follow these guidelines:
- Ensure that the front legs of the sofa and all chairs rest on the rug.
- Let the back legs hang off and take up space.
- To create a spacious feel, the rug should cover about 1/3 of each piece's width. For example, if your chair is 21" wide, make sure the rug extends about 7" underneath it.
This layout gives your room a sense of spaciousness, even if it isn't the largest space. Stick to the 1/3 width rule, and you're good to go!
Option 3: The Too Small, But Make It Work
Do you have a small vintage rug that you adore but fear it's too small? Fear not! You can still use it by layering it on top of a larger rug. Here's how:
- Choose a natural jute-like rug as the base.
- Layer your smaller rug on top, using a different color and material to create an eye-catching contrast.
- For an unconventional look, you can even off-center the rugs. Just make sure that the front legs of your seating are on one of them.
Layering rugs is a creative way to add depth and texture to your room. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect match!
Option 4: The Float (The Rule Breaker)
This layout may seem unconventional, but it can create a unique and stylish look. Here's what you need to know:
- Place your rug under the coffee table but not under the seating area. This creates a floating effect.
- Avoid leaving a gap between your sofa and rug larger than 5". Anything more can make the rug appear too small and out of place.
With the float layout, you can showcase a beautiful rug without overpowering the seating area. Just make sure to maintain balance and harmony within your space.
Option 5: The Sculptural or Amorphous Float
If you have an awkwardly shaped room or want to add a touch of uniqueness, consider using sculptural or amorphous-shaped rugs. Here's how:
- There are no strict rules, but ensure that the rug is proportionate to your sofa.
- Make sure that at least the majority of your seating's legs rest on the rug.
Let your creativity shine by exploring unconventional rug shapes. Just remember to maintain a sense of proportion and balance with the rest of your furniture.
Now that you have a better understanding of how to choose the perfect rug size for your living room, it's time to get shopping! We've curated a list of 36 shoppable rugs in various price ranges to suit your budget. Happy hunting!
We understand that large rugs can be a significant investment, which is why we've handpicked the best options across different price ranges. Happy shopping!
In conclusion, choosing the right rug size for your living room doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these formulas and considering your personal style, you'll find the perfect rug that elevates your space and creates a cozy atmosphere. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. Happy rug hunting!
Love you, mean it.
Opening Photo Credits: Design Sam Gluck | Photo by Alison Bernier | From: A Warm Scandi-Inspired Home
