Selecting the Right Size Rug for your Space

Rugs are one of those design details that can completely change how a room feels — they anchor furniture, add texture, and pull everything together. But choosing the right size rug can be surprisingly tricky. Too small, and the room feels disconnected. Too large, and you lose that cozy balance. Here’s a simple guide to help you get it just right.

10/10/20251 min read

Living Room

Your rug should ground your seating area — think of it as the “frame” for your furniture.

Best rule: All front legs of your sofa and chairs should rest on the rug.
Go bigger if you can: A larger rug makes the space feel more open and pulled together.
Typical sizes: 8’x10’ or 9’x12’ work well for most living rooms. (10'x13' for larger rooms)

If your room is small, you can get away with a 5’x8’, but make sure it at least touches the front legs of your furniture.

Dining Room

Your rug should extend beyond the edges of your table so chairs stay on the rug — even when pulled out.

Tip: Add about 24–30 inches on each side of your table.
For example: A 6’x9’ rug works well under a 4-person table; an 8’x10’ is great for six chairs.

Round tables look best with round rugs — it keeps the flow and symmetry balanced.

Bedroom

Think of your rug as a soft landing for your feet in the morning.

Queen bed: An 8’x10’ usually fits best, placed horizontally under the bed with a bit showing on all sides.
King bed: Go for a 9’x12’ to keep things proportional.

Entryway & Doorways

Your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home — it’s the first thing you see when you walk in. Choose a rug that feels inviting and ties in with the style of the rooms beyond. A 3’x5’ rug works beautifully for most doorways, while a runner helps define longer entry halls. Look for something durable with a lower pile since this spot gets a lot of traffic.

When in doubt, size up! A larger rug almost always looks more intentional and luxurious. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your home feel more polished and pulled together.