How to choose the right rug size
In a living room, a rug large enough to sit under at least the front legs of the sofas pulls the space together. Leaving some floor visible between rug and walls makes the room feel more open.
Pulcarpet
Journal
Short notes on choosing and caring for rugs.
Which size, and how does it sit in the room?
Six rug sizes drawn to scale. The first four are shown in a 4 × 4.6 m living room, the last two in a 5.5 × 6.2 m living room.
80 × 150 cm
1.2 m² · Room 4 × 4.6 m
Covers only the area under the coffee table; the seating stays off the rug. For small rooms and hallways.
120 × 170 cm
2 m² · Room 4 × 4.6 m
Frames the coffee table without touching the seating. Defines the sitting area in a small living room.
160 × 230 cm
4 m² · Room 4 × 4.6 m
The most popular size: the front legs of the seating rest on the rug and the area comes together.
200 × 300 cm
6 m² · Room 4 × 4.6 m
For large living rooms: gathers the whole seating group on one surface.
240 × 340 cm
8 m² · Room 5.5 × 6.2 m
A favourite for large seating groups: the front legs of every sofa and armchair rest on the rug.
300 × 400 cm
12 m² · Room 5.5 × 6.2 m
For big living rooms and open-plan spaces: almost the whole seating group sits on the rug.
Three basics of rug care
Vacuum regularly, blot spills with a clean cloth instead of rubbing, and turn the rug every few months so wear is spread evenly.
Which texture for which room?
Bouclé suits calm, modern living rooms; chenille is for those who want a soft touch; plush shaggy rugs belong in bedrooms and kids’ rooms; patterned woven rugs give a living room character.