When it comes to choosing the right size area rug for your living room, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. The general rule of thumb is to make sure the rug is at least 6 inches wider than your sofa on both sides. Typical living room rug sizes are 8’x10′ and 9’x12′, but it’s important to measure out your space to ensure the perfect fit. Giving 30″ to 36″ of walkway between large furniture pieces is ideal, but if your space doesn’t allow for it, at least aim for 18″-24″ of space. It’s also helpful to use painter’s tape to measure out the desired rug size and visualize how it will look in your space before making a purchase.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Choose an area rug that is at least 6 inches wider than your sofa on both sides.
- Typical living room rug sizes are 8’x10′ and 9’x12′, but measure your space to ensure the perfect fit.
- Provide 30″ to 36″ of walkway between large furniture pieces, or at least 18″-24″ of space if your room doesn’t allow for it.
- Use painter’s tape to measure out the desired rug size and visualize how it will look in your space before making a purchase.
- Ensure the rug dimensions create a balanced and visually appealing look in your living room.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size Area Rug for Your Living Room
Choosing the right size area rug for your living room can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic of the space. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in finding the perfect rug dimensions:
- Consider the furniture placement: Before selecting a rug size, take into account the layout of your living room and the placement of your furniture. For a cohesive look, you can choose to have all legs of the furniture on the rug, leaving around 8 inches of space from the edge of the furniture to the edge of the rug.
- Creating visual interest: Alternatively, you can opt for a visually pleasing look by having only the front legs of the furniture on the rug. This creates a sense of spaciousness in the room. In this case, the rug should extend about one-third of the way under each piece of furniture.
- Layering rugs: If you have a smaller rug that you love, consider layering it on top of a larger rug. This adds dimension and visual interest to your living room while allowing you to showcase multiple rug designs.
By taking into account these tips, you can ensure that you choose the right size area rug that complements your living room furniture and enhances the overall look and feel of the space.
“The right size area rug can transform a living room and tie all the elements together.” – Interior Designer
Recommended Rug Sizes for Living Rooms
Here are some recommended rug sizes for living rooms based on the dimensions of your space:
| Living Room Size | Ideal Rug Size |
|---|---|
| Small to Medium (8’x10′) | 6’x9′ or 8’x10′ |
| Large or Open Floor Plan (9’x12′) | 8’x10′ or 9’x12′ |
Remember to leave a 12 to 18-inch border between the rug and the walls to create a balanced and visually appealing look. By following these guidelines, you can find the perfect rug size for your living room that adds warmth, style, and comfort to your space.
Find the Perfect Rug Size for Your Living Room
Choosing the right size rug for your living room is essential to create a balanced and visually appealing space. By following these rug sizing tips, you can find the perfect rug dimensions that suit your needs.
When determining the ideal rug size, consider the size of your living room and the layout of your furniture. For an average-sized living room, an 8’x10′ rug is a popular choice as it fits well in most spaces. However, if you have a larger living room or an open floor plan, a 9’x12′ rug is recommended to help define the living space.
It’s important to leave a 12 to 18-inch border between the rug and the walls to create a balanced and visually appealing look. This will help anchor the furniture and create a cohesive feel in the room.
Remember that rug size should also be determined by the type of room. In the bedroom, the rug size should match the size of the bed, with an 8’x10′ rug working well for a queen bed and a 9’x12′ rug for a king bed. In the dining room, choose a rug that is large enough to accommodate the table and chairs, such as a 6’x9′ or 8’x10′ rug. And in the hallway, a runner rug can add style and functionality, with dimensions of 2’6″ x 7′, 2’6″ x 9′, or 2’6″ x 12′.
By considering the size of your space, the furniture layout, and the purpose of the room, you can find the perfect rug size that enhances the overall look and feel of your living room.
FAQ
What are the key considerations when choosing the right size area rug for a living room?
The general rule of thumb is to ensure the rug is at least 6 inches wider than your sofa on both sides. It’s important to measure out your space to ensure the perfect fit. Giving 30″ to 36″ of walkway between large furniture pieces is ideal, but if your space doesn’t allow for it, aim for at least 18″-24″ of space. Using painter’s tape to measure out the desired rug size and visualize it in your space can be helpful.
How should furniture be placed on the rug for a cohesive look?
You can choose to have all legs of the furniture on the rug, leaving around 8″ of space from the edge of the furniture to the edge of the rug. If your sofa is against a wall, you can allow the rug to partially tuck under the front legs. Another option is to have only the front legs of the furniture on the rug, extending about one-third of the way under each piece of furniture. Layering rugs is also a popular choice for adding visual interest.
What are some recommended rug sizes for different areas of the home?
In an average-sized living room, an 8’x10′ rug is commonly chosen. For larger living rooms or open floor plans, a 9’x12′ rug is recommended. In the bedroom, the rug size should be determined by the size of the bed, with an 8’x10′ rug suitable for a queen bed and a 9’x12′ rug recommended for a king bed. In the dining room, a 6’x9′ or 8’x10′ rug is usually suitable. It the hallway, a runner rug with dimensions of 2’6″ x 7′, 2’6″ x 9′, or 2’6″ x 12′ can add style and functionality.