What size rug is best?

What is the ideal size rug for my living room? Is there a certain proportion that I should consider, like for example, 1:8 to floor area or is it more particular than that? If so, what factors should I consider when choosing the right sized rug for the front room? thaks.

Asked by LAURA on 4th Dec 2020
Expert Trade Answers
"When choosing the size of a rug for your living room, there are a few factors to consider, including the size of the room, the furniture layout, and your personal style preferences. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right size rug:

Measure the room: Measure the length and width of your living room to determine the size of rug that would fit best. If your living room is large, you may want to consider a larger rug to create a cohesive look.

Consider furniture placement: When choosing a rug, consider how your furniture is arranged in the room. Ideally, all furniture legs should be on the rug or at least the front legs of your seating pieces. This will help anchor the furniture and create a cohesive look.

Leave some space: Leave at least six to twelve inches of space between the edge of the rug and the walls of the room. This will create a border around the rug and help make the room feel larger.

Personal style: Consider your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your living room. You may want to choose a rug that complements your existing decor or adds a pop of color or pattern to the space.

As for proportions, there is no hard and fast rule, but a general guideline is to aim for a rug that is one to two feet shorter than the shortest wall in the room. For example, if your living room is twelve feet by sixteen feet, a rug that is nine feet by twelve feet would be a good size"
Answered on 19th Mar 2023 - Member since Sep 2022 - report
"As long as you leave space to move around the rug it doesn’t matter but between 1&2 foot between furniture and of course depending on the room size"
Answered on 19th Apr 2021 - Member since Mar 2021 - report
"You should have a good foot of space all sides of the rug"
Answered on 4th Dec 2020 - Member since Sep 2020 - report
"Hi size matters allways measure the space you want the rug to go in and takeaway 1 1/2 foot from all furnture ie sofas walls that are in the area you want the rug."
Answered on 22nd Jan 2021 - Member since Aug 2016 - report
"Personally I prefer a two foot space between say the sofa and the edge of your rug. But it’s down to personal choice"
Answered on 5th May 2021 - Member since Apr 2021 - report
"Tricky one. So much think about. I would say consider:

Size of rug to size of room and make sure rug is not too big so you see some of floor underneath, especially if this part of floor is appealing.

Think carefully about colours and do they blend in with room colour theme.

Plain or pattern? Do you want to make a statement and link this to art, religion or simply plain to match room theme."
Answered on 18th Apr 2024 - Member since Apr 2024 - report
"Well, it depends on rooms size and where you actually want the rug to be fitted but minority people always use 7x10 feet rug so best to measure where you want the rug to start from with to length."
Answered on 4th Dec 2020 - Member since Oct 2020 - report
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