Skip to content
Choosing the right rug size can make all the difference to a room. Whether you're furnishing a living room, bedroom or hallway, we've answered some of the most common questions to help you find the perfect fit.
How do I choose the right rug size?
Start by thinking about the furniture rather than the floor. A rug should help bring a room together, framing the furniture and creating a sense of balance. In most cases, choosing a slightly larger rug will make a space feel more considered and spacious.
What size rug is best for a living room?
For living rooms, your rug should be large enough for at least the front legs of your sofa and armchairs to sit on it. This helps define the seating area and creates a more cohesive layout.
If you have the space, placing all of the furniture on the rug creates an even more luxurious feel.
What size rug should I choose for a dining room?
Your rug should extend beyond the dining table so that chairs remain on the rug when they're pulled out.
This creates a more practical and balanced space, while also helping to protect your flooring.
What size rug works best in a bedroom?
Ideally, a bedroom rug should extend beyond both sides and the foot of the bed, creating a soft landing underfoot.
Alternatively, runners placed either side of the bed can work beautifully in smaller spaces.
Should a rug go under a sofa?
Yes. Ideally, at least the front legs of your sofa should sit on the rug. This anchors the furniture and helps the room feel more connected.
How much floor should I leave around a rug?
As a general guide, leave around 20–45cm of flooring visible around the edge of the rug where possible. This creates a balanced border and helps frame the space.
What size rug is best for a hallway?
A runner should sit comfortably within the hallway, leaving a border of flooring visible on each side. This helps the space feel longer and more inviting without looking crowded.
Should a rug be bigger than the dining table?
Yes. Your rug should be large enough that chairs remain on it, even when guests pull them out to sit down.
Are round or rectangular rugs better?
It depends on the room.
- Rectangular rugs are a classic choice for living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms.
- Round rugs work beautifully in entrances, reading corners and beneath round dining tables, helping to soften the space.
- Runners are perfect for hallways, kitchens and other narrow areas.
Can a rug make a room look bigger?
Yes. A rug that's too small can make furniture feel disconnected, while a larger rug helps create a more open, cohesive look.
What if I'm between two rug sizes?
If your room allows, it's usually better to size up. A larger rug creates a more balanced layout and gives furniture room to sit comfortably.
Explore our collection of handcrafted braided rugs, available in a range of sizes, shapes and designs. Any questions? Please do get in touch at mail@braided-rug.co.uk we'd be delighted to help.