Buying the right rug for a small room can dramatically improve the space, making it feel larger and more inviting. The key is to choose a rug that complements the room's scale rather than overwhelming or undercutting it.
Key Considerations for Rugs in Small Spaces
Selecting a rug for a compact area involves more than just picking a style you like. Size and placement are crucial. As highlighted in the reference, the size of your area rug is paramount. In a small room, it's best to opt for a rug that covers a significant portion of the floor, but leaves some space around the edges. This technique is essential for creating the illusion of a larger, more open area. Conversely, a rug that is too small will make the room feel cluttered and disconnected, shrinking the perceived size of the space rather than expanding it.
Here are practical steps and tips for buying a rug for a small room:
1. Prioritize Size and Placement
This is the most critical step. Instead of choosing a tiny rug that floats in the middle of the room, select one that's large enough for furniture to sit on, either fully or partially.
- Rule of Thumb: The rug should extend under the front legs of major furniture pieces like sofas, chairs, and beds. In dining rooms, it should be large enough for chairs to remain on the rug even when pulled out from the table.
- Leaving Edges: Ensure there's still visible flooring (typically 6-18 inches) between the rug's edge and the room's walls. This prevents the rug from looking like wall-to-wall carpet and helps define the space, fulfilling the reference's advice to leave space around the edges.
| Room Type | Ideal Rug Placement |
|---|---|
| Living Room | Front legs of sofa and chairs on the rug |
| Bedroom | Under the lower two-thirds of the bed, extending outwards |
| Dining Room | Large enough for all chairs to stay on the rug when pulled out |
2. Consider the Shape
While rectangular rugs are standard, don't shy away from other shapes if they suit your room's layout and furniture arrangement.
- Rectangular: Works well in most small rooms, especially living areas and bedrooms.
- Round: Can soften a room with many straight lines and create a focal point, particularly effective under a round table or in an entryway.
3. Choose Your Colors and Patterns Wisely
Colors and patterns play a role in how spacious a room feels.
- Lighter Colors: Light-coloured rugs can make a room feel brighter and more open, similar to how light paint colors work.
- Subtle Patterns: Large, busy patterns can sometimes overwhelm a small space. Consider smaller, more subtle patterns or solid colors. If you love bold patterns, ensure the rest of the room's decor is minimal.
4. Think About Texture and Pile Height
The texture of the rug adds depth and comfort.
- Low Pile: Generally easier to clean and can contribute to a sleeker look, suitable for high-traffic areas.
- High Pile/Shag: Adds coziness but can sometimes make a small room feel a bit more enclosed if not balanced with other elements. Use judiciously.
By focusing on size and placement, ensuring the rug covers a substantial area while leaving a border of visible floor as the reference suggests, you can effectively buy a rug that enhances your small room's feel and function.
