Correct Rug Decisions Can Make Your Space

This is a sponsored post by Danielle Gray of Apartment Showcase.

Buying a rug for your home or apartment can be an overwhelming process. There are a ton of factors to consider and if you buy one that’s too small you risk making the space feel chopped up and awkward. Rugs come is different shapes — rectangle, square, or round with sizes ranging from 2′ x 3′ to 12′ x 18′.

Let’s face it, rugs are expensive. It’s always best to save money and time by getting it right the first time.

Here are some basic tips to follow to make the rug buying process a lot easier.

The perfect size for your space is determined by how the furniture is arranged in the room.

As shown here, this basic rug layout is ideal for people with smaller budgets and small spaces.  Depending on the size of your sofa, 4’x6′ or 5’x8′ rugs are perfect here. As a rule of thumb, you want to have at least 5″-10″ of rug on either side of the sofa.

If you have a larger room, consider floating your seating area in the center of the room using an 8’x10′ (or larger) size rug. Anything smaller will make the room feel small and choppy. Remember, your rug is supposed to pull the room together not break it up.

In the bedroom, float the rug towards the foot of the bed.

Use a rug in the bedroom to anchor the bed and to soften the room. If your budget doesn’t call for a large rug, you can also go with a 3’x5′ rug one side of the bed to plant your feet on when you wake up in the morning.

The biggest mistake that people make is buying a rug for the dining or kitchen table that is too small. People tend to stick with rugs that are 5’x8′ or 6′ x 10′ because they are more affordable.

The standard size rug in this area is 8’x10′.  Your goal is to fit the table and chairs on the rug. This prevents the chair legs from scratching up your beautiful hardwood floors.

Here’s the rundown on rug shapes. Square rugs are for square rooms. Round rugs are best suited for entry ways, bathrooms, or playful spaces like kid rooms.

Some people may be wondering if the legs should be on the rug or off. I think legs on the rug looks more polished. Your rug should be large enough to fit the front pieces. But if a large rug isn’t in your budget, then legs off is fine; make sure that you  keep this theme consistent throughout the space.

Finally, don’t forget your rug pad. Rug pads keeps the rug neatly in place and adds an additional layer of cushion underneath it.

Happy shopping! Don’t forget to visit the Apartment Showcase to search for your next apartment.

Graphics by Gray Livin’