Choosing the right size of area rug is just as important as selecting a pattern or colour. Whether rectangle, square or round, the perfect size and shape of a rug is a critical to achieving the right look for a room's particular proportions and design.
For example, the size and shape of a rug can help define sitting, dining or accent areas of a space by accentuating groups of furniture. Furniture can be positioned either directly on the rug or around it is depending on the size of the room or the aesthetics you want to achieve. Use of multiple rugs can draw the eye from one room or area to another.
However, there's a science to choosing the proper size of rugs for a particular application. Use this handy guide to help you determine the right rug for your room.
Bedrooms Depending on your preferences, there are various ways to incorporate a rug in bedrooms. You may choose a rug large enough to accommodate the whole room’s furniture, with a symmetrical border of exposed flooring on all sides. You can also position the rug at an angle for a design element unique to you.
Alternatively, since the bed in average-sized bedrooms will often cover most of a rug, you may opt for smaller rugs to place around it instead. You can even include a patterned rug in a bedroom with carpeting to enhance the room’s decor.
Dining Rooms When deciding on the right size for a dining room rug, a good rule of thumb is that area rugs should be 3 to 4 feet larger in length and width than the dining room table. You should be able to pull a chair out and sit at the table with the chair still resting on the edge of the rug.
Floating Layout One popular room arrangement is called a “floating layout,” where all the furniture fits within the borders of the rug. In this configuration, every leg rests on the rug, leaving enough border space around the furniture to provide a nice frame in a seating or dining area. Also, the size of the rug should be large enough to allow for a symmetrical border of exposed flooring on all four sides. If the layout of a room makes symmetrical positioning challenging, select a size that will offer equal borders top and bottom, and side to side.
Kitchens Space limitations caused by cabinetry, appliances and islands need to be considered when choosing the right kitchen rug. Consider small rugs in front of task areas, runners or even accent rugs to adequately fit the space while softening up the feel of the room.
Bathrooms Bathrooms are small by design, and you need to consider the placement of bath fixtures and vanities when choosing the right rug. You may want to opt for a 5.1 cm x 7.6 cm, 10.1 cm x 15.2 cm or even an oval rug to achieve the desired look and feel without overwhelming the limited space.
Patios and Porches Rugs can add comfort to any outdoor setting — from patio seating groups to screened-in porch dining areas. Aim for a rug large enough to leave a symmetrical border of exposed decking or patio material on all four sides or, in smaller settings, a size that will allow for equal borders top and bottom, and side to side. You can pick a size large enough to accommodate all your outdoor furniture or choose a smaller rug that allows room for the front legs of your furniture to rest upon.