Rugs are a brilliant way to add a dash of character to any room of the home. A multi-functional accessory, they can either be the perfect finishing touch to your home interior, bringing the whole room together, or a great way to dress a room up without the need to re-decorate the entire space.
When it comes to shopping for a rug for your space, it can be hard to know what to look for. There is a lot to consider before purchasing a rug for your space, for example, you should take into account the size and shape of your room, your furniture placement and your interior decor.
It’s important that whichever rug you choose fits the space proportionately and does not make the room feel unbalanced. A good rug should enhance the space in your home.
Whether you have a small space you’d like to appear larger, or a large space you’d like to break up, there is a rug style and size perfect for every room.
Living Room Rugs
Small Rug – coffee table on rug Ideal for small living room spaces, a small rug can be placed in the middle of the room with a central coffee table to give a centre point to the room and make the space appear larger. Ensure the rug size is based on the floor area in-between the furniture so it fits proportionately.
Medium Rug – furniture partly on rug A common rug placement option for the living room is to have the front legs of seating furniture on the rug. This is a great option if you don’t want a full room size rug as this size will cover the floor space in front of the furniture – the main area that can be seen. Ideal if the furniture is against the wall as not too much of the rug is covered.
Large Rug – all furniture on rug Another ideal rug placement option for the living room is to place all furniture on the rug. This is an ideal choice for open-plan spaces as a large rug with all furniture on defines the area nicely. It is essential there is enough space left around the perimeter of the furniture to ensure it isn’t perched on the edge of the rug – this can make the rug look too small for the room.
Dining Room Rugs
Rectangular Rug – for rectangular dining tables This option works for all room sizes, and the ideal rug size will depend on the dimensions of the room and the dining table. If you have a rectangular table, you should opt for a rectangular rug. Make sure the rug is large enough so all chairs remain on it even when they are pulled out – if chairs slip off the edge of the rug it can make the room feel smaller and unbalanced.
Round Rug – for small spaces/round dining tables Generally, the same rules apply for round rugs as with rectangular rugs. A circular rug should always be matched with a circular dining table, and the size you need will depend on the dimensions of the room and the table. If you do not have a lot of space, a round table is often a good option, and a round rug will enhance the space further. Once again, ensure the rug is big enough so all chairs remain on it when they are pulled out.
Runner Rug – to separate kitchen/diner Perfect for a kitchen/diner, placing a runner rug next to the bar area is a great way to spruce the space up and add a contemporary feel. Opt for a colourful and patterned rug to add character and be certain the rug is no longer than the length of the bar area. This is a great way to separate the kitchen and dining area or create a fun atmosphere – perfect for modern open-plan spaces.
Bedroom Rugs
Runner Rug – either side of bed If there is space on both sides of your bed, a great way to add symmetry and colour to the room is with a matching runner rug on each side. Ensure the runner is both wider than your bedside table and the same length as the bed - if it is longer than the bed it the room will feel uneven.
Medium Rug – bed partly on rug Another way to add symmetry to a room is to place the bed partly on a medium rug - around 2/3 on is a good ratio. This rug placement can help the room feel put-together and add character, without filling the entire space.
Large Rug – whole bed on the rug Placing the entire bed on a large rug is a great way to define the sleeping area in a room. Both bedside tables and any other furniture surrounding the bed should be included within this placement. However, the furniture on the opposite walls does not need to be included on the rug and the main bedroom walkway should not be covered by the rug.