How to choose the right size area rug

Choosing the right size rug isn’t always easy but this guide will help you to make the right choice

Once you have decided on the area that you want place your rug, and the type of rug, the size is the next choice.

In the world of interior design, rugs play a major role in tying together a room while adding warmth and character. When it comes to rugs, size is a crucial factor that can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your space. In this guide, we'll explore the diverse world of rug sizes, shedding light on how each size can contribute to your space.

Things to consider when deciding on the size of the rug

• Decide if some of the furniture will have the legs resting on the rug with the back legs off.

• Decide if you want the furniture legs to be all inside the rug as a grouping.

• Does the furniture sit against a wall, or is it centered so you can walk around the grouping?

When you have it clear then it is time to take the measurements so you can choose the correct size.

If all the furniture will have the legs on the rug try to give the appropriate extra for the rug to look balanced and be functional, for example, the extra for the bed will need at least 30inches or more to allow to step onto when getting in & out of bed. A livingroom would need less. A dining table would need at least 24inches more to allow for the chairs to be pulled out.

LARGE AREA RUGS 10'X14'

A large area rug is ideal when you have a large living room and the furniture is a grouping without touching any walls. All the furniture sits inside the rug with all of the legs on the rug. This will make the room look luxurious & complete. When measuring allow at least 12inches to be added from the furniture.

LARGE AREA RUGS 10'x14'

A large sofa that is L-shaped or U-shaped takes up a lot of space. A large area rug placed under the furniture with side chairs and a coffee table keeps the look balanced and provides warmth for the feet. Again when the furniture is not touching the walls.

LARGE AREA RUGS 9'X12'

The area rug is ideal for a grouping of furniture that touches at least one wall with the back legs of the furniture outside the rug. The front legs of the sofas & armchair are on the rug whilst the back legs are off the rug. The rug can be slightly smaller than the above displays.

LARGE AREA RUGS 9'x12'

Corner sofa that at least one side touches the wall. A slightly smaller area rug is enough to cover the space that makes this a comfortable option. The sofas back legs are off the rug, however, the armchair's legs are on the rug.

LARGE AREA RUGS 9'x12'

A smaller room that has just one sofa normally in front of a T.V. and the sofa is against the wall. The rug frames the area and leaves space for children to play on the rug.

LARGE AREA RUGS 9'x12'

The sofa against the wall and armchairs on either side of a coffee table, & the front legs are on the rug with the back legs off. A larger rug is not needed and is more cost-effective.

MEDIUM RUG 8'x10'

Small rooms that have a smaller sofa against the wall and a coffee table suit well this size rug. The rug goes to the back of the wall however it can be pulled more forward so the front legs sit on the rug giving more space in front for children to play on.

SMALL RUG 5'X8'

This is small rug covers the area for a small two-seater sofa & armchair when there are one or two walls behind the furniture

LARGE AREA RUGS 9'X12'

A luxurious option for your bedroom is a large area rug to extend around your bed with all the legs of the furniture on the rug starting with the back of the bed against the wall. Bedside tables and furniture at the foot of the bed all stay within the rug.

Layers of soft fur rugs can be an extra touch of warmth to the feet when you get up in the morning, also aesthetically beautiful. For king-size beds use a 10x14’ area rug

MEDIUM RUG 8'X10'

Place a rug under your bed 2/3rds of the way up leaving a substantial amount at the foot of the bed. The functionality of the rug gives warmth to the feet where you step. There is space to place an ottoman at the foot of the bed or a layered rug to add extra softness.

RUNNER 2.5'X9'

Runners are a cost-effective and easy way to add warmth and style to the bedroom. There is a runner at the foot of the bed with sheepskin fur rugs at the sides of the bed. They will need to underlay to stop you from slipping.

RUNNER 3'X5'

Runners are a cost-effective and easy way to add warmth and style to the bedroom. Place a runner on each side of the bed to keep your feet warm and add style. Underlay is a must to stop you from slipping.

RECTANGLE/SQUARE DINING RUG

Keep all the furniture legs on the rug when pulled out. Measure your table and chairs pulled out not forgetting if the table extends to get the size of the rug correct. Choose a rug that is easy to clean and flat for the ease of pulling out the chair.

ROUND DINING RUG

Round dining tables look great with a round rug. It is recommended that all the legs of the chairs sit on the rug, with space to pull the chair back staying on the rug. This is so the chair stays safe and the legs are even. When choosing your rug measure the table and chairs pulled out. Also, take into consideration if the table extends. Choose a rug that is easy to clean and is flat for the chairs to pull out easily.

Choosing your underlay for your area rug

Underlay for your rugs is as important as the rug. Believe me from experience as an Interior Designer rugs need a rug pad, take a look at the main reasons why. 

• This is a safety issue to stop the rug from moving and you from slipping over.

• Helps to reduce wear & tear of the rug and keep the rug flat

• Adds extra warmth, to the room & reduces noise.

• Protects the flooring under the rug from scratches

• softens the rug with an extra layer adding comfort

• Easier to clean the rug when vacuuming

  There are so many different rug pads or also called underlay that it is hard to know which is the best to buy, & is it worth paying a lot for something that is under the rug that you can't see? The old saying if you buy cheap you buy twice, yes it is worth paying for a good quality rug pad as the benefits are worth it. They are typically made of felt, rubber, or a combination of both. The felt also offers an eco-friendly version.

Rubber /PVC floor pads

• Ideal for keeping your rug securely in place with a rubber suction grip.

• Prevents slipping

• Protects the floor's surface from scratches

• Is light and easy to clean

• Increase rug comfort and longevity

Felt Rug Pads

• Felt pads help keep your rugs in place whilst adding comfort and warmth.

• The plush pad is perfect for all types of flooring.

• These pads are an environmentally safe

• Adds comfort for all types of floors

• Designed to fit under carpet or area rugs and can easily be trimmed to size for smaller applications

• Provides an extra layer of protection between rug and flooring

Dual Surface Felted Rug Pad

• Felt 100% post-industrial recycled synthetic fibers with a slip-resistant rubber side

• Can be used on all indoor floor surfaces (hardwood, tile, carpet, linoleum, concrete, and laminate)

• The rubber side keeps the mat in place on hard floor surfaces, felted side keeps the mat in place on carpeted surfaces

• keeps your rug attractive extend the life of your rug.