True size: The rug size basics

31 October, 2024

True size: The rug size basics

Space is the central element of the interior. Surrounded by walls, it separates the inside from the outside - the public from the private. With its wide range of design options, the living space evokes associations with the creative potential of the mind, opening its doors and encouraging quiet enjoyment.

A question of proportions

Interiors are fundamentally defined by their use and layout. They can be wonderfully combined and separated, so that, for example, an open kitchen is referred to when it leads directly into the living room.

“But how do I find the right rug for the room?”

Here are a few examples of how the dimensions of a rug in relation to the positioning and type of furniture can have a decisive influence on the appearance and feel of a room.

The living room – the center of it all

There are many different types of living room rugs. They are usually used in combination with a three-piece suite, with which they form a single unit. In this case, the round, rectangular or square rug should match the width of the sofa, with an additional border overlap of at least 15 to 25 cm.

The standard sizes (in cm) for living room rugs are:

  • 300 x 400

  • 240 x 340

  • 200 x 300

  • 200 x 290

  • 160 x 230

  • 140 x 200

  • 120 x 170

Also make sure that...

  • the color of the sofa and rug harmonize with each other

  • the seating furniture is placed directly on the rug

  • the size of the rug is chosen according to the size of the room

  • in small rooms, the rug is placed in the middle of the three-piece suite

  • in small rooms and with a smaller rug, only the front edges of the seating furniture cover the rug

Dining room – à la minute

The right size for your dining room rug depends on the size of the dining room table. Ideally, the rug should be large enough to completely cover the dining table and chairs, even when the chairs are pushed back.

As a rule of thumb, the rug should extend at least 60 cm on each side of the dining table to provide enough space for the chairs.

Pay attention to the proportions of the dining room. In a smaller room, choose a rug size that doesn't overwhelm the room but makes it look bigger. In a larger room, on the other hand, you can experiment with larger rugs.

Bedroom – beautifully cozy

The intimate space of retreat and regeneration reflects our deepest needs for peace and security. In this inner idyll, rugs are the ideal basis for comfort.

Here, too, a number of things can be taken into account:

  • for the bedroom, for example, high-pile rugs and wool rugs of all kinds are ideal

  • for those who like it coarser under their feet in the morning, a sisal or jute surface is recommended

  • Especially with smooth floors, a rug can minimize the risk of slipping.

  • While the decor or surface material can be cozy, the back should be non-slip.

  • If the bed is placed on the rug, it should have a sufficiently wide border that stands out evenly all around.

  • If the room is large enough, runners can be placed on both sides and in front of the bed.

The hallway – room no. 1 for the runner

Since the hallway is a high-traffic area, it makes sense to use a runner that is robust, easy to clean and durable. Dirt-repellent materials such as sisal, jute or synthetic fibers are recommended here. However, rugs made of wool or cotton are also excellent for hallways, as they offer natural comfort and are durable at the same time. In addition, the rug should be non-slip – a special rug underlay can provide additional grip here.

Ideally, the runner should not cover the entire length of the hallway. It is more visually appealing to leave at least 10-20 cm of floor visible at the ends and sides of the hallway.

Consider the position of doors and other obstacles. Make sure that the runner does not restrict freedom of movement and fits easily under doors or thresholds. As so often, aesthetic and functional aspects are in balance here.

Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal rug size for a living room depends on the size of the room and the arrangement of the furniture. For smaller living rooms, a rug measuring 160 x 230 cm is often suitable, while larger living rooms may require a rug measuring 200 x 300 cm or more. The rug should be large enough to accommodate at least the front legs of all the furniture, creating a harmonious overall look.



For the dining room, it is important that the rug is large enough to accommodate the table and chairs, even when the chairs are pushed back. Here, the rug should extend at least 60-70 cm beyond the edges of the table. Popular sizes here are also 200 x 300 cm or 250 x 350 cm, depending on the size of the table and room.



In the bedroom, the rug should be large enough to extend under the bed and be visible on the sides. A common choice is a rug measuring 240 x 340 cm for a king-size bed or 200 x 300 cm for a queen-size bed. Alternatively, you can also place smaller rugs on the sides of the bed, e.g. 70 x 140 cm each.



For the hallway or entrance area, runners are suitable, which give the room length and welcoming warmth. The width of the runner should be chosen so that enough floor remains visible at the sides, usually about 10-20 cm. The length should cover the majority of the hallway, without ending directly at the walls, to create a harmonious transition. Common runner sizes are 80 x 300 cm or 80 x 400 cm.






With love
From Morgenland Team

Go to shop