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It seems to be one of those eternal questions: when is a rug too small and when is it too big? Unfortunately, it's not quite enough to just settle on the type of rug you love, because if the rug does not suit your space it can be as pretty as it wants, but it will never look quite right.
To stop all speculations once and for all, we've asked our Hunter + Nomad interior designer Leigh Hays to shine a light on this topic, and give you some guidance on how to choose the right rug size for your room.
The Bedroom
There are several ways that a rug can be placed in a bedroom. If your bed is centred in the room, the most common way to place it is horizontally underneath the bed (starting in front of the bedside tables). That way when you hop out of bed in the morning your feet touch the rug. The rug should sit out past the bed legs at least 50 centimetres. For a queen bed, this would mean a 2.3m x 1.6m rug is perfect. If the space or budget is limited, you could opt for two separate rugs placed on either side of the bed, creating symmetry and balance.
In a kid's or teenager's room, where the bed is placed against the wall, go for an area rug that draws attention to the middle of the room, creating a distinct play area for your child or hang out zone for your teen. Anchor the rug to the bed by placing at least some of the leg onto the rug, leaving enough space around to allow the rug to become a feature rather than just a floor cover.
Hunter + Nomad Pink Checker Rug, photographed by Villa Styling
Hunter + Nomad Black Dot Ottoman, photo by Emma Lynch
Limited Edition! Hunter + Nomad Diamond Multi-Coloured Rug, photo by The French Folk
The Lounge Room
As just mentioned, a rug is considered a visual anchor and helps to bring a room together in balance and harmony. That’s why choosing the right size is so important.
In the lounge room, generally, a rug's purpose is to define the space with the sofa, a coffee table, maybe a couple of armchairs and the entertainment unit sitting around it. With the coffee table in the middle, the sofa's front legs and accent chairs should sit on the rug (at least partially). Usually, you leave a minimum of 30 centimetres between the rug and the entertainment unit. Of course, these measurements may differ depending on the space and the size of the rug. Basically, go as big as the space and budget allow.
Hunter + Nomad Rust Ottoman, photo by Amy Taylor
The Dining Room
A rug under the dining table is a controversial choice, particularly with small children. However, it does turn the dining area into its own zone (particularly important when having an open plan layout) and if you go for a washable or sisal option, you'll generally be fine. Plus dirt-repellent sprays can further help with making your dining rug go the distance.
An easy rule to remember is that a round table demands a round rug and a rectangular table a rectangular one. Ideally, the table and chairs should fit comfortably on the rug, with the chairs remaining on the rug even when pulled out. This means allowing for at least 60 centimetres of extra length and width of the rug (based on the table size) to accommodate the chairs.
If you are working with a smaller space, just ensure the table is centred and the front feet of the chairs are sitting on the rug.
Image from Adore Magazine, photo by The Palm Co
House 10 Breakfast Room by Three Birds Renovation
House Eight Dining Room by Three Birds Renovations
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