How to Pick the Right Size Rug for Every Room
A rug can completely transform a space, grounding the furniture, adding softness, and tying your entire color palette together. But if the carpet is the wrong size? It can throw off the whole room.
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here’s your go-to guide for picking the right rug size for every room in your home. This is one of the most common mistakes I see, especially with DIY design. Rugs that are too small make a space feel disjointed, while rugs that are too large can overwhelm it.
Living Room
The rule: At least the front legs of all seating should be on the rug.
GO BIGGER THAN YOU THINK. A too-small rug makes the whole space feel off.
Ideal Rug Size:
8x10 for small-to-medium spaces
9x12 for larger open floor plans
Layout Tips:
The front legs of your sofa and chairs should sit on the rug.
Leave about 12–18" of floor visible around the perimeter.
Designer tip: Make sure your coffee table sits entirely on the rug. If the carpet floats in the middle with furniture around it, it’s too small.
Dining Room
The rule: The rug should extend 24"–30" beyond all sides of the table, allowing chairs to stay on the rug when pulled out.
MATCH THE RUG TO YOUR TABLE SIZE. It should frame the dining area and allow chairs to move easily.
Ideal Rug Size:
At least 24–30" larger than your table on all sides
Layout Tips:
All chair legs should stay on the rug, even when pulled out
Round tables look great with round rugs
Designer tip: Round table? Use a round rug! Match the shape to visually anchor the dining zone.
Bedroom
The rule: The rug should extend at least 18"–24" beyond both sides and the foot of the bed.
MAKE IT FEEL GROUNDED. The rug should extend beyond the bed and frame the sleeping area.
Ideal Rug Size:
Queen bed: 8x10
King bed: 9x12
Layout Tips:
Place the rug under the bottom two-thirds of the bed
Let it extend at least 18–24" on each side
Alternatively, use two runners on each side of the bed
Alternate layout: Two runners on each side of the bed can also work, especially in smaller rooms.
Entryway or Hallway
The rule: The rug should fill most of the space without hitting the edges, leaving 6"–12" of floor space around it.
USE A RUNNER OR STATEMENT RUG. It sets the tone for your home.
Ideal Rug Size:
Measure the width of the hallway and leave a few inches of flooring on each side
Layout Tips:
Make sure it’s nonslip or use a rug pad for safety
Choose durable materials (like wool or indoor-outdoor blends)
Designer Tip: Rug Tips for Every Room
Always use a rug pad; it adds cushion, extends the life of your rug, and keeps it in place.
Don’t size down to save money; it costs more in the long run when your space feels off.
Use painter’s tape on the floor to map out the rug dimensions before making a purchase.
Use a Concept Board to Get It Right
Every curated concept board includes the correct scale and proportions for the room — including the perfect rug. Use it as a guide or shop it directly to avoid costly sizing mistakes.
Explore Curated Concept Boards