How to Choose the Right Size and Place for a Rug

The right rug is the one that fits the room, not just the floor space. Measure first, then decide where the rug should sit.

Living room. The most comfortable layout lets at least the front legs of every sofa and armchair rest on the rug. A rug that floats in the middle of the room with all furniture off it tends to make the space feel smaller. Leave 30–50 cm of bare floor between the rug and the walls.

Dining room. The rug should extend at least 60 cm beyond the table on every side, so that chairs stay on the rug even when pulled back. Measure the table with the chairs pushed out, not just the tabletop.

Bedroom. Place the rug under the lower two thirds of the bed so that it shows on both sides and at the foot. Runners on each side of the bed also work well.

Hallways and kitchens. A runner should leave 10–20 cm of floor visible on each side. For narrow spaces, check the width of the doors so that nothing catches on the rug.

A simple method. Cut out the shape of the rug with masking tape or newspaper and leave it on the floor for a day. You will quickly see whether it feels too small or too large.

Pattern and colour. Large rooms can carry bold, busy designs. In small rooms a quieter field with a clear border often looks calmer. A strongly coloured rug works best when the rest of the room is neutral.

Every handwoven rug on this site is one of a kind and listed with its exact size in centimetres, so you can compare it with your measurements before you ask us anything. Browse our Traditional Rugs, Kilims or all rugs.