Choosing the right area rug for any given space is not just a matter of taste—it’s also about finding the correct size to complement your area and furniture. The right rug can anchor a room, define it, add warmth, and help layer a room’s decor.

Living Rooms: In living rooms, one popular rule is that the rug should be large enough to slide under the front legs of sofas and chairs in a seating arrangement, unifying the furniture. For a more luxurious feel, go for a larger rug that fits all furniture completely atop. Standard sizes for living room rugs are 8’x10’, 9’x12’, or an oversize 11’x14’.

Dining Rooms: For dining rooms, it’s essential that the rug is large enough for chairs to be pushed back from the table without coming off the rug. This ensures that chairs won’t catch on the edge, which can be annoying and unsafe. As a general rule, add about 24 inches on all sides of your table for the ideal size. Common dining room rug sizes are 8’x10’ or 9’x12’.

Bedrooms: Area rugs in bedrooms can vary greatly depending on bed size and room proportion. A standard solution is having a large area rug beneath the bed, with at least 18-24 inches sticking out on either side. This gives you something nice and soft to step onto when you wake up. Common measurements for bedroom rugs include 6’x9′ for a twin or full bed and 8’x10′ or larger for a queen or king-size bed.

Hallways & Entryways: Runners are great for hallways and entryways. They protect your floors from traffic and spills and guide guests through your home. Width-wise, your runner should fill most of the hallway – leaving a few inches of floor showing on each side – while length-wise it can vary depending on your space.

Remember, these rules are not hard and fast but rather guidelines to help you get started. Let your own eye for design and the uniqueness of your space guide you as well. Always step into the room to visualize how different sizes will work before making a purchase. And if in doubt, it could be worth investing in some masking tape to map out where you’d like your new rug to sit—this can help prevent any costly mistakes.

Lastly, don’t overlook the power of customization; many companies offer bespoke rug sizes to perfectly fit your space. Investing in the perfect size rug is an investment in both comfort and style that will complement your interior for years to come.