Measuring for the Right Living Room Rug Made Easy

When it comes to decorating your living room, one of the most important elements to consider is a beautiful rug to anchor your space. A well-chosen rug can tie the room together by adding warmth and texture that creates a cozy ambiance. However, finding the right rug size for your living room can sometimes be a bit of a challenge! 

To ensure you make the right choice, it's crucial to measure your space accurately and understand how the rug's size and placement can affect the overall look and feel of the room. In this Indoor Rugs 101 blog post, we'll guide you through the process of measuring for the ideal rug in your living room.  

So easy! 

Step 1: Determine the Rug's Purpose

Before you start measuring, it's essential to define the purpose of the rug in your living room. Are you looking for a rug to define a specific area, add a pop of color, or create a cozy sitting area? The rug's function will influence the size and shape you should choose.

Step 2: Measure the Room

To start, measure the dimensions of your living room space. Use a tape measure or a long piece of string and a ruler to get accurate measurements. Note the length and width of the room in feet. Keep in mind that these measurements will help you determine the range of rug sizes that will fit comfortably within the space. Typical rug sizes: 5' x 8', 8' x 10' or 9' x 12 - but there is just about every other size in between too!

Step 3: Create Visual Balance

Rug placement can influence the perception of the room's size and shape. For example, in smaller living rooms, placing the rug partially under the furniture can create an illusion of spaciousness In larger rooms, an area rug placed entirely under the furniture can define a cozy conversation area within the vast space.

The next step is to decide on the positioning of the rug within your living room. To create a visually balanced look, consider these three common placement options:

1. Front Legs Only: For a more contemporary and open feel, you can place the front legs of your furniture on the rug while the back legs remain off. This works well for smaller rugs or smaller spaces

2. All Legs On:  A more traditional approach is to have all the legs of your seating and coffee table positioned on the rug. This makes the room feel cohesive and inviting. For a larger room, you can position the rug in the center with some space between the rug's edges and the furniture. This creates an open, inviting look while still defining your seating area. The key to styling your seating area on top of a large rug is to ensure that the rug extends at least six inches past each piece of furniture. We recommend a rug that is 9' x 12' or larger, leaving an equal 12" to 18" of exposed floor on all sides to create a border around the rug. This is a nice option for larger, open concept rooms. It allows the furniture to "float" in the center, helping to accentuate the seating area and create distinction in the room.

3. All Legs Off The Rug

If you're working with a smaller room (or smaller budget!), consider an area rug that floats in the center of your seating arrangement. A rug that is at least 5' x 8' works best in a room that is 10' x 12' or smaller. This would leave about 2 feet of flooring bordering the rug on each side. For the best proportion, the rug should be a bit longer than your sofa. Place the rug a few inches in front of the sofa or centered with alternative seating on the perimeter. If the rug is under a coffee table, make sure the rug is large enough to rest under all four legs of the table.

Step 4: Choose the Right Rug Size

Now that you have your room measurements and placement preferences, it's time to choose the right rug size. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

• For a room with all furniture legs on the rug, choose a rug that's large enough to fit under all the key pieces of furniture. This ensures a cohesive and harmonious look. (9" x12", 10" x 14" or larger)
• If you opt for the front-legs-only approach, select a rug that is large enough to fit under the front legs of your seating furniture and extend beyond them by at least 6-12 inches (15-30 cm).
• In a centered placement, ensure there's an equal amount of space between the rug's edges and the furniture on all sides. This approach works well for larger rooms.
• If you're placing a rug under a coffee table, make sure it's large enough to extend beyond the table on all sides, creating a balanced and appealing arrangement. Especially important for smaller spaces and cozy sitting areas!

Step 5: Visualize and Enjoy!

Measuring an area rug for your living room is an art that, when mastered, can transform your coastal living space into a harmonious sanctuary. By understanding the importance of accurate measurements, defining your seating area, and considering your room's dimensions, you can confidently choose the ideal rug that not only fits your space but also elevates your home decor to new heights. 

So, measure wisely, visualize thoughtfully, and let your living room reflect your unique coastal style and personality. 

P.S. These same rules apply to creating your ideal outdoor living room too!

Happy decorating!