Choosing the Correct Rug Size

There is so much to consider when shopping for a new rug; colour, pile, material, pattern, style and the list goes on but one of the most important elements affecting the success of your rug in any room is the size.  

In general, we tend to buy our rugs too small, which can be a deal breaker for a space because it means the rug can quickly become dwarfed by the size of the space. In a large, open plan living room, opt for a rug large enough that all your furniture can sit on the rug or at least the front legs of the sofa(s). It’s the rug’s responsibility to zone the space and anchor the furniture and the larger the rug, the greater the sense of luxury and warmth created in the space. If your living room is on the small side, you may opt to have your rug floating which means the edge of the rug would sit out approximately 300mm from the front feet on your sofa. Although, even in a small space, I personally prefer to have my rug partially tucked under the sofa feet (I prefer my feet on a rug than a hard floor). There are exceptions to every rule but in my book, a rug should always be longer than your sofa by at least 300mm on each side. A cowhide is the exception to the rule but the asymmetrical shape of a cowhide defies all the rules. 

In the bedroom, in nearly all circumstances I opt for rugs under the bed, even if your bedrooms are carpeted. The extra layer adds literal and visual warmth and added luxury. The general rule of thumb is to buy a rug large enough that at least 500mm protrudes from each side of the bed. In terms of rug width in the bedroom, the rug should sit at least one metre from the wall in which the bed head sits and should protrude at least, approximately one metre from the end of the bed. 

Consider carpet runners for thoroughfares such hallways, breezeways and kitchens especially where spaces may need some added warmth and layering. In long hallways, feel free to lay more than one runner, placing them at least 500mm apart. In our hallway, I’ve used a combination of different sized, coloured and patterned rugs for a relaxed, eclectic feeling in the home. In some cases, you can even utilise door mat sized rugs to help fill out such long narrow spaces.  

Rugs can be tricky things to get right. DecoRug offer a try before you buy scheme and a returns policy so that if your rug isn’t quite right in the space you can return it and try again. It’s the best way to ensure you get it right.