Choosing between different sizes of area rugs can be tough, especially when designing an interior room layout. These tips will help you make a perfect choice.

Buying Carpets: How to Find the Perfect Sizes of Area Rugs

Area rugs can bring a measure of color and pattern to almost any room in the house. They serve not just to add some softness to your floor, but also can provide a casual but effective way to add style to your room.

Once you’ve chosen the right type of area rug for your needs, the only question left is what size to choose. Carpets come in a variety of sizes, so figuring out which one would be best for your needs can seem like a daunting task at first.

No one wants to find out too late that they didn’t choose the proper size–and have to try to swap it out. Thankfully, you can easily choose a great carpet size now by taking a few simple steps.

Here’s what you need to know about choosing the best sizes of area rugs for your home.

Consider the Room Layout

If a large room is a destination, there should be an effort to fill the space, while smaller spaces require less carpeting. A long hallway requires narrower and longer rugs, and a smaller, square room requires a medium-sized square rug.

If the room is square or rectangular, consider choosing a rug that is also square or rectangular in shape. If the room is irregularly shaped, a circular rug can help to soften the edges and create a cohesive look.

Measure the Room

Measure the length and width of the room, and then decide how much of the floor you want to be covered by the rug. A general rule of thumb is to leave a space of about 18-24 inches between the edge of the rug and the walls. This helps to create a balanced look and prevents the rug from overwhelming the space.

Taking Advantage of Online Rug Calculators

Finding the perfect size of area rug for any given room can be a daunting task, but taking advantage of online rug calculators makes it a much simpler process. The first step is to measure the room from side to side and from front to back. The calculator will then ask for the type of rug you’re looking for.

The results will provide you with a range of rug sizes, which can give you a good idea of what size is best for that particular room. Additionally, some of these online calculators can actually provide recommendations for how to place the rug, depending on the furniture in the room.

Considering Seasonal Differences When Shopping

When shopping for area rugs, consider the seasonal differences and decorate accordingly. Generally, a large area rug is welcoming in winter and spring, while in summer and fall, smaller rugs complement outdoor furniture and outdoor living spaces.

In winter, larger area rugs can help to insulate a room and keep floors warm, whereas, in summer and fall, small rugs can be replaced easily if the weather changes suddenly.  Consider the decor you want to achieve and how various textures, fibers, and materials will coordinate. Buying a rug should be a considered decision that takes into account both seasonal differences and individual tastes.

Seek Expert Advice When Shopping for Carpets

When shopping for carpets and area rugs, it’s important to seek professional advice to make sure you get the right size and fit for your space. The perfect-sized area rugs can be tricky to find on your own. Professional advice can help you pick the most suitable sizes that will complement your surrounding furniture, decor, and wall colors.

They can also provide helpful tips on area rug maintenance and suggest professional oriental rug cleaning services that will keep your rugs brand new. With expert advice, you can avoid the costly mistake of buying rugs that are either too big or too small. 

Consider the Traffic Flow

If you are placing a rug in the entryway or a hallway, the rug should be wide enough to fit the width of the space and long enough to cover the desired area when walked on.

You should also consider the size of your furniture. If you need an area rug large enough to fit under multiple pieces, you will need to measure your space and furniture and make sure that the size of the rug is proportional to the furniture and space. 

If the rug is placed in a high-traffic area, such as a hallway or entryway, a durable and stain-resistant rug may be a better choice. If the rug is placed in a low-traffic area, such as a bedroom, a plush and cozy rug may be more suitable.

Living Room

In a living room, the area rug should be large enough to fit all the furniture within its boundaries. This creates a sense of unity and defines the seating area. A common mistake is to choose a rug that is too small, causing the furniture to appear disjointed and cluttered. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that at least the front legs of the furniture are on the rug.

Dining Room

In a dining room, the area rug should be large enough to accommodate the table and chairs. A rug that is too small can cause the chairs to catch on the edge of the rug and make it difficult to move them in and out. A general guideline is to leave at least 24-30 inches of space beyond the edge of the table to accommodate the chairs.

Bedroom

In a bedroom, the area rug should be large enough to extend beyond the sides and foot of the bed. This creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and it also provides a soft landing spot for your feet when you get out of bed in the morning. A general guideline is to leave at least 18-24 inches of rug space beyond the sides and foot of the bed. 

Finding the Perfect Sizes of Area Rugs

Choosing the perfect sizes of area rugs can be a challenge, but with careful consideration of the room layout, size, and traffic flow, you can find the ideal rug to complement your decor. Remember to measure the room and leave enough space around the rug to create a balanced look. Whether you choose a square, rectangular, or circular rug, a well-chosen area rug can add.

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