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The Rug Rulebook: Size Matters

RUGS 101 If there’s one design mistake I see over and over again, it’s rugs that are too small. I *have* GOT TO dig out a photo of my living room from right after I moved in. I didn’t have any large rugs yet, so I put a 4X6 rug under the coffee table. Perfection.…
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RUGS 101

If there’s one design mistake I see over and over again, it’s rugs that are too small. I *have* GOT TO dig out a photo of my living room from right after I moved in. I didn’t have any large rugs yet, so I put a 4X6 rug under the coffee table. Perfection. LOL It actually stayed there for longer than I care to admit. Rugs can be an investment, so take your time BUTTT…

The wrong size can make a beautiful room look unfinished, while the right size instantly elevates everything. Think of your rug as the foundation of the space; when it’s done right, the whole room feels custom and collected.

Here’s your easy cheat sheet guide to getting it right every time.


Living Room

  • Anchor the Space: Your rug should extend at least under the front legs of sofas and chairs. OR have all legs of all furniture ON the rug.
  • Scale Matters: For most spaces, that means 8×10 or 9×13. When in doubt, go larger. It instantly feels more tailored.
  • Pro Tip: A rug floating in the middle of the room will always look too small. (see the 5X7)

Bedroom

  • Queen Bed: Choose an 8×10 to give you a soft landing past your nightstands. See how the 5X7 is too small?
  • King Bed: Go with a 9×12 so the bed feels framed, not crammed. (I personally use an 8×10 under my king, and it looks great, just make sure the rug stops about 2 inches before your nightstands begin.)
  • Alternative: Two runners on either side create symmetry and save budget.

This is an 8X10 on a queen bed. Tap the photo to shop!


Dining Room

  • Rule of Grace: Chairs should remain on the rug even when pulled out.
  • Typical Fit: 8×10 or 9×12, depending on your table size. I have always used an 8X10 with my four and six-chair tables.
  • Round Tables: A round rug feels intentional and makes pulling your chair out so much easier.

Tap the photo to shop my dining room rugs.


Entryway & Narrow Spaces

  • First Impression: A runner sets the tone; avoid tiny postage-stamp rugs.
  • Hallways: Leave just a few inches of flooring visible on each side for balance.
  • Layering Secret: A natural fiber rug under a patterned accent (or vice versa) instantly feels layered and collected.

Tap the photo to shop!


Final Thought: Rugs are like tailored clothing for your home. The right fit doesn’t just cover the floor; it transforms the whole room.

Tap the graphics to shop!

Terra Nelson