The right rug pulls a room together; the wrong size makes even beautiful furniture look like it is floating. Most rooms need a bigger rug than people expect. The good news is that the rules are simple, and once you know them you will never second-guess a rug purchase again.
The golden rule: when in doubt, size up
A rug should anchor the furniture, not sit in the middle of it like an island. In most rooms, aim to leave roughly 12 to 18 inches of bare floor between the rug and the walls. Before you order, mark the size on the floor with painter's tape and live with it for a day. It is the single best way to avoid a costly return.
Living room
The front legs of every sofa and chair should sit on the rug. That connects the seating into one conversation area. For most living rooms that means an 8' x 10'; for larger rooms or a big sectional, go to 9' x 12'. A 5' x 8' usually only works in a small apartment or as a layer on top of a larger jute rug.
Dining room
Chairs should stay on the rug even when they are pulled out, so the rug needs to extend at least 24 inches beyond the table on every side. For a table that seats four to six, that is usually an 8' x 10'. Choose a low, flat or tightly woven pile so chairs slide easily, and a pattern that forgives the occasional spill.
Bedroom
Place the rug under the lower two-thirds of the bed so it extends about 18 to 24 inches on each side: you want something soft underfoot when you step out of bed. An 8' x 10' suits a queen bed and a 9' x 12' suits a king. In a narrow room, a runner on each side of the bed is a smart alternative.
Entry, hallway, kitchen and laundry
Runners should leave a few inches of floor visible on each side and at both ends, so they look intentional rather than wall to wall. In a kitchen or laundry room, run one along the sink or the machines, and choose a washable rug. A round rug is a lovely alternative in a square entry or under a reading chair.
Outdoors
The same rules apply on a patio: the rug should hold the whole seating group, with at least the front legs of every chair on it. Choose a rug made for outdoor use so it handles sun and rain, and a classic bordered design to frame the space.
Quick reference
Living room: 8' x 10', or 9' x 12' for large rooms and sectionals. Dining room: at least 24 inches beyond the table on every side, usually 8' x 10'. Queen bed: 8' x 10'. King bed: 9' x 12'. Halls, kitchens and laundry rooms: a runner with floor showing on all sides. Small entries and reading corners: a 5' round. And always: tape it out first.
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