How to Choose the Perfect Rug for Every Room

A rug can transform a space adding warmth, color, and style. To find the perfect one, consider your room’s size, layout, color scheme, and how the space is used. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right rug for every room in your home.

Rug Sizing Tips by Room

Getting the size right is essential for balance and flow. Here are general sizing guidelines:

• Living Room: Choose an 8×10’ or 9×12’ rug. It should extend at least 6” beyond your sofa on both sides.
• Dining Room: Go for a rug that extends 36” beyond the table on all sides to allow for pulled-out chairs.
• Bedroom: The rug should extend 24” from each side and the foot of the bed.
• Hallways (Runners): Leave about 3” between the runner and the walls.
• General Rule: Make sure all furniture legs can fit on the rug—this protects your floors and creates a grounded look.

Choosing the Right Rug Color

Rug color should enhance your room’s existing tones. Here are some color pairing ideas:

• Blue Rooms: Try warm beige or rust rugs (Stiffkey Blue by Farrow & Ball is a great wall color here).
• Green Rooms: Use soft red or warm-toned rugs to complement (Pigeon by Farrow & Ball pairs well).
• Brown Rooms: Creamy gold, soft gray, or ivory rugs match well with London Clay walls.
• White Rooms: Add contrast with blue-toned rugs—White Flour by Sherwin Williams is a clean base.
• Red Rooms: Pair deep red walls with dark, patterned rugs for a cozy vibe.

Best Rug Materials for Each Room

Each room has different needs when it comes to material:

• Living Room: Choose wool, jute, or sisal—durable and stylish.
• Dining Room: Wool is stain-resistant and easy to clean.
• Bedroom: Go soft and cozy with wool, shag, or plush natural fibers.
• Entryways: Pick tough materials like sisal or performance fibers.
• Kitchen: Go for spill-proof rugs made from cotton or synthetics.

Layering Rugs for Style and Depth

Layering is a great way to add texture and personality:

1. Start with a neutral base rug.
2. Place a smaller accent rug (about 2/3 the size) on top.
3. Let the base peek through, and make sure the top rug is positioned off-center or aligned purposefully.

Mix materials for contrast—try a jute base with a patterned wool top rug for a boutique feel.

Styling Tips for a Put-Together Room

• Allow 6–8 inches of visible floor around the rug.
• Match rug colors to your room’s palette.
• Add personality with interesting textures or bold patterns.
• Use durable materials where there’s a lot of foot traffic.
• Layer rugs to create dimension and warmth.

FAQs

What is the 18-inch rule for rugs?

Leave about 18 inches of bare floor around the rug’s edges for a clean, balanced look.

What’s the rule of thumb for area rugs?

Pick a rug that fits your space in terms of size, material, color, and style—and place it strategically to tie everything together.

Should my rug be lighter or darker than my sofa?

Aim for contrast! A lighter rug can brighten a dark sofa, and a darker rug grounds a light one.

What color rug goes with everything?

Neutrals like beige, gray, ivory, or taupe are super versatile. They’re easy to style with nearly any room color or furniture.