Quick answer: A rug should sit under your main furniture, not float between it. For most living rooms choose 200 × 300 cm (6'7" × 9'10"); for dining rooms add at least 60 cm (24") beyond the table on all sides; for bedrooms extend 45–60 cm past the bed. When in doubt, size up.
A beautiful rug in the wrong size can quietly undo an entire room. It's the single most common mistake we see — and almost always, the rug is too small. The right size draws a room together and makes everything above it feel intentional. Here's how to get it right, room by room.
The rule that never fails
A rug should be large enough to sit under the main furniture, not float between it. In most rooms, bigger is better. When you're between two sizes, choose the larger one.
Living room
Three layouts work:
- All legs on — every piece of furniture sits fully on the rug (most luxurious, needs a large rug).
- Front legs on — the front legs of the sofa and chairs rest on the rug (the popular sweet spot).
- Floating — the rug sits in front of the sofa to define a zone (for small spaces).
Typical sizes: 160 × 230 cm for compact rooms, 200 × 300 cm for standard, 250 × 350 cm for large open spaces.
Bedroom
Either place one large rug under the bed, extending 45–60 cm (18–24") beyond the sides and foot, or use runners on either side. Start the rug about two-thirds of the way up from the foot of the bed.
Dining room
The rug must be large enough that a chair pulled out to sit still has its back legs on the rug — add at least 60 cm (24") on every side of the table. A 4-seat table suits ~160 × 230 cm; a 6-seat ~200 × 300 cm; an 8-seat 250 × 350 cm or larger.
Hallways and entryways
Runners add warmth and protect high-traffic floors. Leave about 10 cm (4") of floor on each side. Standard runners start around 80 × 300 cm.
A note on shape
Rectangular rugs suit most rooms, but round rugs are a beautiful choice under a round dining table or in a reading nook.
Frequently asked questions
What size rug for a standard living room?
200 × 300 cm (6'7" × 9'10") suits most standard living rooms, with the front legs of your seating resting on the rug.
Should a rug go under the bed?
Yes — a large rug under the bed, extending 45–60 cm beyond the sides and foot, feels the most grounded and luxurious. Runners on each side are a good alternative.
Is it better to have a rug too big or too small?
Too big. An oversized rug makes a room feel larger and more finished; a too-small rug makes it feel unfinished. When in doubt, size up.
How much floor should show around a rug?
Leave a consistent border of roughly 20–45 cm (8–18") of visible floor between the rug edge and the walls.
Tip: tape out the size on your floor before buying so you can see it in the space.