Just like an ill-fitting piece of clothing can ruin an outfit, the wrong size rug can totally throw off the look of a room. Selecting the right rug size is crucial in home staging as it can significantly impact the overall aesthetics and perceived dimensions of a space. We want potential buyers to understand the intended use of each room and how to lay out the furniture appropriately to maximize the space. A well-proportioned rug anchors furniture, defines specific areas, and contributes to visual balance, creating a sense of cohesion and warmth in a room. Choosing the appropriate rug size ensures that the staging enhances rather than overwhelms the space, promoting an appealing and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.

Here are the top 5 tips for selecting the right sized rug:

TAKE ADEQUATE ROOM MEASUREMENTS

Begin by measuring the dimensions of the room and considering the placement of furniture. The rug should be large enough to accommodate the key furniture pieces within the designated area, ensuring adequate coverage without feeling cramped. Keep in mind the size of the room with the understanding that bigger rooms require bigger furniture arrangements and larger rugs or even multiple furniture groupings and multiple rugs.

CONSIDER FURNITURE PLACEMENT

Choose a rug size that allows the front legs of major furniture pieces, such as sofas and chairs, to rest on the rug. This creates a cohesive and connected look, tying the furniture together and defining the seating area. In living rooms, we recommend positioning furniture (i.e., sofas, sectionals and accent chairs) with front legs only on the rug, coffee table centered, and back legs floating off of the rug. In dining rooms, the rug should measure 2-3 feet larger than your dining table on all sides. This extension accounts for the space needed for the chairs to comfortably slide in and out without moving off the rug. In a bedroom, a common approach is to place the rug under the bed, extending it beyond the sides and foot of the bed. This creates a soft and comfortable surface for your feet when getting in and out of bed. Consider a rug that extends at least 18-24 inches beyond each side and the foot of the bed.

CONSIDER ROOM SHAPE

By paying attention to the shape of the room, you can make informed decisions about the size and shape of the rug, creating a visually pleasing environment that enhances the overall appeal of the space. For square or rectangular rooms, opt for rugs that mirror the shape of the room. In more open spaces or irregularly shaped rooms, consider a larger rug that can encompass the entire seating arrangement, maintaining proportionality.

The shape of the room can align with specific design styles and preferences. Some rooms are designed with architectural features that suggest a particular rug shape would be more fitting. Considering these elements helps align the rug selection with the overall design intent of the room.

LEAVE ADEQUATE SPACE

Ensure there is a border of flooring visible around the rug's edges. Providing space around a rug helps maintain balance within the room. It prevents the rug from appearing cramped or overwhelming, allowing for a more open and well-proportioned look. This is especially crucial in smaller spaces where too much coverage can make the room feel crowded. Aim for at least 8-12 inches of exposed flooring. Additionally, space around the rug helps define specific zones within a room. For example, in a living room, leaving space between the rug and the walls creates a clear boundary for the seating area, enhancing the organization and functionality of the space.

ACCOUNT FOR TRAFFIC FLOW

In high-traffic areas, choose a durable rug that accommodates the flow of foot traffic. Additionally, leave sufficient space between the rug's edges and walls to allow for easy movement without feeling confined, contributing to a more spacious and welcoming feel in the room. A well-placed rug allows for easy movement and navigation, especially in areas with frequent foot traffic. This is particularly important in busy spaces such as hallways, entryways, and common areas. Rugs can be also used to define natural pathways within a room. This helps organize the space and guides people intuitively through designated areas. It's especially beneficial in open-concept living spaces where delineating different functional zones is important.

Selecting the right rug can be tricky, but hopefully now you’re equipped with the knowledge to pick the best fit for your space. If you’d like a download of our rug sizing guide, shoot me an email at anna@oliveandopalinteriors.com and I’ll send one over.