Rugs are available in various sizes, but how do you know which one will fit perfectly in your home? The right-sized rug can change the overall look of your room and make it more inviting. If your rug is too small or too large for the space, it can alter the appearance of a room in a negative way.

What Size Rug Should You Buy?

Since a rug is a statement piece that defines your space, you must focus on choosing the right size. Worried about what size rug you should buy? Kate Hartman Interiors has put together a perfect guide to simplify your rug-buying process and help you choose the right-sized rug.

How do I Take Measurements for a Rug?

Before measuring a rug, you must measure the space where you have to lay the rug. This way, you can estimate the rug size that will look perfect in that space. Start with these steps to measure the space available for your rug:

1. Use a measuring tape and measure the length of the room where you want to put the rug. Measure the entire length and width of the room if it’s small; if the room has an open space, just measure the specific zone where you want to place the rug.
2. If the room is small, leave 8 inches of space from the borders; if it’s large, leave at least 18 inches of bare floor.
3. Take masking tape and create the frames on the floor for the area you want the rug to fit in. Note the dimensions, which will help you choose the right rug size.
4. Consider all key details; for instance, if some doors or vents can affect the rug placement. If the rug has to be placed beneath a door, measure the space between the bottom and the floor. Then check the rug’s pile height later and ensure it will fit beneath the door.

Standard Rug Sizes

Regardless of which place you buy the rugs, the sizes are common. Once you’ve measured the room size, you can choose from one of the standard rugs available. Have a look at this table to learn about the standard rug sizes:

• Small rugs: 3 X 5, 5 X 7, 5 X 8
• Medium Rugs: 6 X 9, 8 X 10
• Large Rugs: 9 X 12, 10 X 14, 12 X 15, 12 X 18
• Round Rugs: 4, 6, 8, and 10 diameters

Rug Sizes for Different Living Spaces

The size and layout of the room play an important role in determining the right rug size. Plus, there are different rug sizes according to the room type, furniture, and overall theme. Consider the rug size according to the room where you want to place it. The following types of rugs are available for different living spaces:

All Legs On

All-Legs-on types of rugs are large enough to create a unified look in the room. These rugs are best suited for living rooms with floating furniture. All-legs-on rugs are perfect for open spaces where the furniture is not against a wall and all the legs of the furniture are on the rug. The primary purpose of this rug is to organize the seating area.

Front Legs On

“Front legs on rugs” are suitable when the room has furniture against the wall. For living rooms with furniture against the wall, you can place the rug right below the front legs of the sofas. These rugs are also suitable for living rooms, but they don’t have the entire furniture on them.

All Legs Off

All-legs-off rugs are usually small and medium-sized rugs placed in the center of the seating arrangement. These types of rugs are mostly styled in front of the furniture in such a way that there are no legs of the furniture on them. Some people use this design for rugs that are too lovely to have furniture cover them.

Rounded Arrangement

Round rugs are suitable for dining rooms with all the chairs and a center table. These rugs are available in different sizes. Round rugs are suitable for round tables but need to make sure to encompass both the table and the chairs. A good rule of thumb is that the rug should be at least 36-inches larger than the table on all sides. 

All Furniture On

All furniture-on- rugs are suitable for primary bedrooms and large enough to accommodate all the furniture. These rugs have an all-inclusive layout where you can place the bed, a dresser, and nightstands.

Just the Bed On

These rugs are suitable for stylish and attractive flooring. Just-the-bed rugs provide cushioning and comfort and have thicker piles. These medium-sized rugs don’t hide the beautiful flooring and are usually placed just to the front legs of the bedside tables and go out the edges of the bedside tables extending down to at least 18-inches past the end of the bed or bed frame. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Rug Size

The most important thing to consider when buying a rug is the living space. If your rug is too big for the room, it will make it appear smaller. On the other hand, if it’s too small, it won’t unify the open space. Also, consider the room’s theme; for instance, a small rug won’t fit in if the room has a light theme. Consider these tips to choose the right rug size:

• According to the rule of thumb, a rug should be 1.5 to 2 feet smaller than the area it occupies. Leaving some space around the rug makes the space more elegant and spacious.
• For rooms with sofas and tables, your rug should extend at least 6 inches beyond all the pieces of furniture. This is true if you want to have an all-legs-on setting.
• The standard rug sizes for living rooms are 8 X 10 and 9 X 12. However, it mainly depends on the size of your living room.
•  Seating area furniture can sit fully or halfway on the rug. If you have limited space, consider choosing the front-legs-on style.

Kate Hartman Interiors Can Help

Shopping for a rug is simple if you know the basic rules. While most of us focus on the design and color patterns of rugs, it is essential to consider the rug size for a unified look. You can also break a few rules and have fun with different shapes and types of rugs. Measuring the rug’s size is key to a more comfortable and elegant space. In the end, as a general rule, buying a bigger rug is always a good idea. If you’re looking for an experienced interior designer in Denver to help you out, contact Kate Hartman Interiors!