Choosing the Right Size of Area Rugs for Living Room
An area rug is not just a decorative object; it is an important design element that can tie a room together, define spaces, and enhance the overall ambiance of your home. Choosing the wrong rug size can throw off the balance of a room, making it feel cramped, cluttered, or unfinished. On the other hand, the right rug size for your living room will help unify the space, anchor your furniture, and create a cohesive look.
Leave an Edge Around Your Furniture
When choosing a rug size for your living room, the first rule to remember is to make sure there is a 4 to 6-inch edge around all furniture pieces and their legs. This rule helps frame the furniture within the space, creating an appealing and balanced look.
How to Take Measurements for the Right Rug Size?
- Measure the Furniture: Start by measuring the length and width of the area covered by your furniture, including the sofa, chairs, and coffee table.
- Add extra inches: Add 4 to 6 inches to each side of these measurements to determine the ideal rug size. This extra space ensures that the rug will accommodate all furniture legs, so that pieces would not feel like they are “floating” outside the boundaries of the rug.
- Consider room features: Take into account any room features like fireplaces, bookshelves or unique room shapes that may affect the rug’s placement.
Common Area Rug Sizes for Living Rooms
Understanding standard rug sizes can help streamline your selection process. Here are some common area rug sizes and their descriptions of when they should be used:
5×8 feet: Ideal for small living rooms or for placing under a coffee table without any furniture overlapping. This size is perfect for a minimalist setup or compact space.
6×9 feet: Offers a bit more coverage, often used in medium-sized living rooms where the rug can support the coffee table and the front legs of sofas and chairs. 8×10 feet: This is one of the most versatile sizes, suitable for medium to large living rooms. All front legs of your furniture should rest comfortably on the rug, creating a cohesive seating area.
9×12 feet: Great for large living rooms. With this size, all furniture legs, including those of larger pieces like sectionals, can rest comfortably on the rug.
10×14 feet: Best for spacious, open-plan living rooms or large rooms where the rug needs to define the space and accommodate all the furniture pieces.
Finding the right fit for your living room
When it comes to selecting the right rug size for living room or bedroom decoration, the layout of your space plays an important role. Whether you have a traditional, open-plan or irregularly shaped living room, here are some tips that will help you decide on the right rug size.
Traditional Living Room Layout
In a traditional living room setup, where furniture is arranged around a focal point such as a fireplace or TV, the rug should rest over the seating area. Ideally, the rug should be large enough so that the legs of all the furniture, or at least the front legs, can fit on it. This approach ties the room together and ensures that the space feels cohesive.
Open-Plan Living Rooms
Open-plan living rooms can present a challenge when selecting a rug size. In these spaces, the rug’s role is to define the living area as distinct from other areas, such as the dining area or kitchen. A large rug (9×12 feet or larger) works well in this scenario, helping to create a clear boundary while maintaining visual flow.
Irregularly Shaped Rooms
If your living room has an irregular shape or unique architectural features, you may need to customize the rug size. Consider using tape to outline different rug sizes on the floor to see which one works best. Don’t forget to take into account any protruding elements, such as a bookshelves or hearth, which may require adjustments to the size or shape of your rug.
Rug Materials and Their Impact
Once you have determined the right size, the next step is to choose the material that best suits your lifestyle. Here is a brief overview of common rug materials and their advantages and disadvantages:
- Synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester, nylon): These are great for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets, because they are durable and easy to clean. However, they may not feel as plush as natural fibers.
Wool: Wool rugs are the best choice for living rooms because of their durability, softness, and stain resistance. However, they can be a little expensive. - Cotton: Cotton rugs are affordable and soft, but are best suited for low-traffic areas because they tend to wear out quickly.
- Jute and Sisal: These natural fibers offer a rustic look and are durable, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. However, they may not be the best choice if comfort is a priority.
The Role of Rug Pads
Rug pads are an essential, but often overlooked, component when buying an area rug. They not only prevent slipping, but also extend the life of your rug by reducing friction with the floor. Always use a rug pad that matches the size and thickness of the rug. For thicker rugs, select a pad with a stronger grip, while thinner rugs can use a cushioned pad for added comfort.
Custom Rug Sizes for Large Spaces
For large or irregularly shaped living rooms, especially standard rug sizes may not meet your needs. In these cases, consider a custom rug. A cost-effective way is to buy wall-to-wall carpet and have it cut to your desired size. Many manufacturers, such as Shaw or Stanton, offer this service. You can then bind the edges for a polished, custom look.
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