How to choose a rug of the right size

Choosing the right size rug is essential for creating a stylish interior in your home. Whether you want to place a rug under the dining table, by the sofa, under the coffee table, or in the bedroom, size plays an important role. Choosing the right size is also often tricky, which is why in this blog we are going to share useful tips and considerations for choosing the perfect size and perfect rug for any room in your home.

How big should a rug under your dining table be?

A rug under the dining table should be carefully chosen to be both visually appealing and functional. For the dining room, it is therefore advisable to choose an area rug that fits both the dining table and chairs. Here are tips to determine the right size:

• Measure the table: Make sure the rug is spacious enough to fully encompass the dining table, even when the chairs are pulled out. Keep in mind the specific design of your table, whether it is round, square or oval, as this will affect the ideal size rug. For example, with a rectangular dining table, a round rug is not recommended. It is generally recommended to leave at least 70 centimetres free around the table for optimal look and functionality.

• Chairs on the rug: Consider whether or not you want the chairs to rest on the rug. If you want this, the rug should be large enough so that the chairs can be moved comfortably without moving off the rug.

• Where the rug will lie: Pay attention to where the rug will be placed in relation to other pieces of furniture. Make sure the rug not only fits under the table, but also works harmoniously with other elements in the room.

How big should a rug go with the sofa?

Determining the right size for a rug by the sofa is necessary for a balanced and attractive living room. We’ll give you a hand with the following considerations for choosing the right size:

• Size of sofa: Match the rug to the dimensions of your sofa. For a two-seater sofa, a smaller rug may suffice, while a larger sofa calls for a roomier rug. Also look at both sides of the sofa and whether you want the rug under the sofa or more forward. 

• Sofa configuration: Do you have a two-seater sofa, three-seater sofa, corner sofa, or any other configuration? The shape of the rug should match the arrangement of your sofa. Place the rug about 15-20 cm under the sofa, with the front legs on the rug. When you choose a printed rug, it is sometimes nicer to lay the rug separate from the sofa.

• Chairs on the rug: Consider whether you want to place the sofa chairs on the rug. This may affect the size of the rug needed.

Want more detailed tips on choosing the perfect rug to go with your sofa? Then read our blog How to choose a rug of the right size for detailed information on different sofa arrangements, including two-seater sofas, three-seater sofas, corner sofas, and more. Want to know how best to place a rug by the sofa? For practical advice and inspiration, read our blog How to place a rug by the sofa.

How large should a rug under the coffee table be?

A coffee table is often the centrepiece of the living room, and the rug underneath it should connect the space. We are happy to help you get started on this! When choosing the size of an area rug, several factors weigh in, such as where it will end up and the size of other pieces of furniture. Here are some considerations:

• Proportions: Choose a rug that is in proportion to the coffee table and all the furniture in the living room. A rug that is too small can make the space look underused. 

• Distance from furniture: Leave about 20 to 30 centimetres of floor space between the edges of the rug and surrounding furniture for a balanced look. The rug should be large enough to encompass both the coffee table and other seating furniture. Most furniture is placed entirely or partly on the rug, but it is also possible to place no furniture on the rug. In that case, make sure the rug is aligned nicely in the middle and, if necessary, put a coffee table in the middle.

• Colour and pattern: Consider the colour and the pattern of the rug in relation to the coffee table and the rest of the furniture. A well-chosen rug can not only add comfort but also provide a decorative element to the room.

How do I know how big the living room rug should be

The living room is the most popular place to lay down a rug and therefore a real eye-catcher to have a nice-sized rug here. But which size should you choose for which rug? When deciding on the right size for a living room rug, there are several factors to consider:

• Room layout: Consider where the furniture is located and decide how big the rug should be to frame the room without covering too much or too little floor space. It is important that the rug blends harmoniously into the room. Tip: Before buying a rug, you can mark the suggested dimensions on the floor with tape.

• Chairs on the rug: If you want to place chairs on the rug, make sure it is large enough to create unity. The rug should provide space for all furniture pieces to form a cohesive whole.

• Sofa against the wall: If the sofa is against the wall, let the rug extend a little under the sofa to create a cosy atmosphere. This contributes to a warm look and makes the room visually appealing.

• Corner of the sofa: Let the rug also extend a little under the sofa in the corner where you often sit. This gives the room a cohesive feel and creates a comfortable and inviting corner in the living room.

What size rug to lay down in the bedroom?

Want to put a rug under your bed? In the bedroom, a rug can contribute to a warm and comfortable atmosphere. When you are looking for the right size of a bedroom rug, it is useful to first think about where the bedroom rug will be placed. Here are some more guidelines to determine the right size rug:

• Under the bed: How far the rug extends depends on the size and shape of the room. Place the rug under your bed, leaving at least 15-20 cm of the rug visible on all sides.

• Both sides of the bed: If there is space on either side of the bed, consider two smaller rugs on either side for a symmetrical look.

How big should a round rug be?

A round rug can add an interesting and playful element to your interior. So, the right size of your rug depends on the size of the room. Here are some tips on choosing the right size of the round rug:

• Determine diameter: Measure the room where the round rug will be placed and determine the ideal diameter based on the space available. 

• Place under furniture: Consider whether to place the round rug partially under furniture. This can create a dynamic effect.

• Size of room: Match the size of the round rug to the overall size of the room so that it feels balanced.

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We hope the above information will help you find the right rug size you are looking for! After all, a rug should enrich your interior. If you choose the right size, chances are you will enjoy your rug for many years to come. Need more useful rug tips? Then take a look at our tips & care page. Read here, for example, how to choose the colour of your rug of how to best store your rug! We would love to help you furnish your home stylishly and comfortably with the perfect rug.