Rug Rules: The Ultimate Area Rug Placement Guide
THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS | PHOTOS BY AMANDA ARCHIBALD FOR APARTMENT THERAPY
“YOUR RUG IS TOO SMALL!”
I casually uttered this phrase while having a glass of wine and was promptly met with an onslaught of comments from renters and homeowners alike! The most common questions are:
What size rug do I need? and
Where should I place a rug in my space?
The frustration of buying a new rug is REAL. There are so many different sizes and styles it takes a lot to know your specific space needs. But no worries, Homies! I'm here to help!
Below are eight diagrams showing the MOST common rug placements (with size recommendations) for every room in your home. Keep reading and share this post with someone you love because friends don't let friends have ugly houses!
Bedroom Rug Placements
All furniture goes on the rug
If you’ve got a big ‘ole room, fill it with a huge rug to hold all your furniture, then add a storage piece at the foot of the bed to help fill in the space! This patterned bench from Target would go nicely.
Just The Bed On The Rug
Although similar to option one, having only the bed on the rug is more practical for smaller spaces. For this setup, position the carpet to run the long way under the bed and leave a few inches between the end of the rug and the nightstands.
Something To Consider: For options one and two, most of the rug will be under the bed so that you won’t see any elaborate patterns in the middle. Instead, look for rugs with detailing around the edges.
If Your Bed Is Along The Wall
Popping a runner next to your bed, so you don’t have to step onto a cold floor, is an excellent option for putting your bed against a wall on one side. Most runners start at 2” wide, but you can always go bigger if your space allows.
Living Room Rug Placements
All Furniture Pieces On The Rug
TBH, this set-up is reserved for those with larger rooms to fill. Consider going for a rug with an intricate pattern since most will be showing.
Only The Front Legs On The Rug
Your rug should not be floating in the middle of the room - the furniture needs to touch. I used this setup in my living room, which works like a charm. Ensure at least the front legs of all your pieces are in contact with the rug.
Dining Room Rug Placements
Rectangular Table
When you pull the chair out, it should still be on the rug. PERIOD!
Round Dining Table
Rectangular rugs and round tables CAN be done, but only in specific cases - keep things simple by matching the shape of the table to the rug on the ground.
Kitchen Rug Placement Guide
Galley Kitchen
Runners are perfect for kitchens - no matter the layout. All you need to do is leave 3-5 inches of visible floor space around the rug and keep the pile height low to ensure your appliance doors have easy access during daily use.
Rug Rules is an ongoing series; subscribe to imaniathome.com to learn more rug placement tips for every room in your home! Until next time.
xoxo,
Imani
