Rug Size Calculator
Find the perfect rug size for your room using our calculator. Get recommendations based on your room dimensions.
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The Interior Designer's Secret: Why Size is Everything
A rug is more than just a floor covering; it's the anchor of your room. It defines a space, ties your furniture together, and adds a layer of warmth and texture. But if the size is wrong, the entire room can feel "off." A rug that's too small—often called a "postage stamp"—can make your furniture look like it's floating aimlessly. A rug that's too large can overwhelm the space and make it feel cramped.
Our calculator is based on a fundamental design principle: a rug should be large enough to connect the key pieces of furniture, while still leaving a border of bare floor. As a rule of thumb, designers recommend leaving about 18 to 24 inches of bare floor around the edges of the rug. This creates a visual frame that makes the room feel both spacious and cohesive.
A Room-by-Room Guide to Perfect Rug Placement
Living Room Rugs: Creating a Conversational Hub
Your living room layout dictates the ideal rug placement. Here are the three most popular and effective options:
- All Legs On: For larger rooms, choose a rug big enough to place all your furniture (sofa, chairs, coffee table) completely on top of it. This creates a unified, luxurious feel.
- Front Legs On: The most common choice. The rug should be large enough for the front legs of your sofa and chairs to rest on it. This ties the seating area together beautifully without requiring a massive rug.
- Coffee Table Only (The Float): In smaller spaces or with tight budgets, a smaller rug that holds just the coffee table can still work to define the center of the room.
Dining Room Rugs: The 24-Inch Rule
The rule for dining rooms is simple but non-negotiable: the rug must be large enough so that all dining chairs remain on the rug, even when pulled out. Measure your dining table and add at least 24 inches to each side. This prevents chair legs from catching on the edge of the rug, ensuring a comfortable and functional dining experience.
Bedroom Rugs: A Soft Place to Land
A bedroom rug should provide a soft, warm surface for your feet when you get out of bed.
- Under the Bed: The best placement is to run the rug perpendicular to the bed, extending it past the foot. It should be large enough to offer a generous landing spot on both sides.
- Runners: Alternatively, you can place a runner rug on each side of the bed for a similar effect.
Common Rug Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
- The "Postage Stamp" Rug: Choosing a rug that is too small for the furniture grouping, making the room feel fragmented.
- Forgetting Door Clearance: Ensure your rug's pile height doesn't obstruct doors from opening and closing smoothly.
- Ignoring Room Shape: While rectangular rugs are most common, consider a round rug for a round dining table or a square rug for a square seating area to create harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put an area rug on top of carpet?
Absolutely! Layering a rug over wall-to-wall carpet is a great way to add color, pattern, and definition to a space. Just be sure to use a rug pad designed for carpet to prevent it from bunching up.
Should my rug be lighter or darker than my sofa?
It depends on the look you want. A rug that contrasts with your sofa (e.g., a light rug with a dark sofa) will make both pieces stand out. A rug with a similar color tone will create a more monochromatic, serene look. There's no wrong answer!
How do I know which rug style is right for me?
Style is personal, but a good starting point is to match the rug to your overall decor theme (e.g., modern, bohemian, traditional). If you're unsure, a neutral rug with a subtle texture is a timeless choice. For a truly confident decision, you can use an AI interior design tool to visualize different rugs in your actual room before you buy.
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