August 2025
How to Choose the Right Size Rug for Every Room
A rug has the power to completely transform a room. It defines spaces, softens hard flooring and brings warmth, texture and balance to an interior. Yet one of the most common design mistakes is choosing a rug that's too small. While it may seem like a way to save money, an undersized rug can make even a beautifully designed room feel disconnected and unfinished.
Here are the simple principles we use when selecting rugs for our projects.
Living Room
The living room is where rug size matters most. Rather than floating in the middle of the room, your rug should anchor the seating arrangement.
The best approach
Aim for a rug that allows at least the front legs of every major piece of seating to sit comfortably on the rug.
Even better, if your room allows, choose a rug large enough for all furniture to sit entirely on it.
Avoid
- Rugs that sit only beneath the coffee table.
- Tiny borders around furniture.
- Furniture floating off the rug entirely.
A good rule: If you're deciding between two sizes, choose the larger one.
Dining Room
A dining rug should be practical as well as beautiful.
The rug should extend at least 60–70cm (24–28 inches) beyond all sides of the dining table. This ensures dining chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out.
If chairs catch on the edge every time someone sits down, the rug is too small.
Bedroom
The bedroom should feel calm and luxurious, and the rug plays a significant role in creating that feeling.
For a king bed, the rug should ideally extend around 60cm beyond both sides and the foot of the bed.
The bed should sit comfortably on the rug, leaving enough exposed rug to step onto when getting out of bed.
Alternatively, two runners placed either side of the bed can work well in smaller rooms.
Hallways
Hallway runners should complement the architecture rather than fill every inch of floor.
Leave a consistent border of flooring visible around the runner, typically 10–20cm, depending on the width of the hallway.
The runner should feel centred and proportionate, not wall-to-wall.
Material Matters
While size is important, so is the material.
For high-traffic spaces, we often recommend:
- Wool for durability and softness.
- Flatweaves where practicality is key.
- Natural fibres for a relaxed, timeless feel.
A quality rug should age beautifully and develop character over time.
Our Golden Rule
If you're unsure, size up.
A generous rug instantly makes a room feel considered, balanced and more luxurious. It's one of the simplest ways to elevate a space and create the feeling that everything belongs together.
At Six Walls Studio, we always view rugs as part of the architecture of a room rather than simply an accessory. Choosing the right size from the outset creates a foundation upon which the rest of the design can comfortably sit.