Tips for Sizing Your Rug Like a Pro
Choosing the right rug size is one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of decorating a room. One common question we hear at Kirishian Rugs is: How much bare floor should show around a rug? While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, there are solid guidelines that can help you strike the right balance between rug coverage and visible flooring.
Rug Sizing Guide for Living Rooms
For living rooms, leaving 16 to 30 inches of exposed flooring around your rug is a good rule of thumb. This creates a visually pleasing “frame” of hardwood, tile, or other hard surfaces around the rug while grounding your furniture layout. Keep in mind that the rug may not have an equal border on all four sides—and that’s perfectly okay.
When placing your rug:
- Ensure the front legs of sofas and chairs sit on the rug. This ties your seating area together and prevents the rug from feeling like it’s “floating.”
- If your room is large, consider using multiple rugs to define different areas, such as reading nooks or conversation spaces.
What About Dining Rooms?
Dining room rugs require a little more precision. You'll want to make sure that chairs can be pulled out comfortably while staying fully on the rug. To determine the right size, place your dining table and chairs, then pull the side chairs back as if someone were sitting down. Measure the distance from the front to the back legs of the pulled-out chairs, and make sure your rug extends at least that far in all directions.
Can I Use More Than One Rug in a Room?
Absolutely. If you've fallen in love with a rug that’s slightly too small for your space, you can pair it with complimentary rugs to enhance your layout. This approach works especially well in living rooms, where smaller rugs or runners can be used on the sides of the room or near bay windows.
For example:
- A central 9x12 or 10x14 rug works well in most living rooms.
- Add 6x8 or 8x10 rugs near window seating areas or entryways.
- Use runners along walkways or beside furniture to create cohesion.
The rugs don’t need to be identical. Instead, aim for coordinating colors or complementary patterns that unify the space while adding visual interest.
Final Thought
At Kirishian Rugs, we believe that the right rug does more than cover a floor—it defines a room. Whether you’re decorating a cozy den or a grand living space, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit. Not sure what size works for your home? Visit us in-store or schedule a consultation for expert advice tailored to your space.
