Placing rugs strategically throughout a house, often referred to as "rugging," is a design technique used to define spaces, add warmth, comfort, and style. Getting the placement right is key to achieving a cohesive and functional look in each room.
Proper rug placement is essential for enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of different areas in your home. While the specific rug size and shape will depend on your room's dimensions and furniture layout, general guidelines help ensure the rug serves its purpose effectively.
Here's a breakdown of how to properly place rugs in key rooms, incorporating essential placement rules:
Living Room Rug Placement
In the living room, the rug acts as an anchor for your seating area, creating a defined zone for conversation and relaxation. According to placement guidelines, living room rugs should go under the sofa and the coffee table. This ensures that the main furniture pieces are connected by the rug, making the space feel grounded and inviting.
Key considerations for living room rugs:
- The rug should be large enough so that at least the front legs of all main seating furniture (sofas, armchairs) rest on the rug.
- Ideally, the rug is large enough to fit all furniture on it, but placing it under the sofa and coffee table is a minimum standard.
- Ensure there is walkability space around the furniture edges that is not on the rug, allowing for clear traffic flow.
Dining Room Rug Placement
A rug in the dining room helps define the eating area and adds comfort underfoot. Crucially, dining room rugs should extend all the way past the dining chairs. This means that when chairs are pulled out from the table for seating, their legs should remain on the rug.
Essential dining room rug rule:
- The rug must be large enough to accommodate the dining table and chairs, allowing diners to pull their chairs out comfortably without catching the rug's edge.
- Measure your table and chairs, considering the pull-out distance, to determine the minimum rug size needed.
Bedroom Rug Placement
In the bedroom, a rug provides a soft landing spot when you step out of bed. For optimal comfort and visual balance, bedroom rugs should go half under the bed and stretch out enough on the sides to stand on.
Tips for bedroom rug positioning:
- Place the rug perpendicular to the bed, sliding it under the lower two-thirds or half of the bed.
- Ensure the rug extends several feet beyond the sides of the bed so that your feet land on softness upon waking up.
- Consider placing smaller runners on either side of the bed if a large rug doesn't fit or suit the layout.
Summary of Room Rug Placement
Here's a quick reference for essential rug placement in common areas:
| Room | Recommended Rug Placement |
|---|---|
| Living Room | Under the sofa and the coffee table |
| Dining Room | Extend all the way past dining chairs |
| Bedroom | Half under the bed & stretch out on sides |
By following these guidelines, you can effectively rug your house, creating well-defined, comfortable, and stylish spaces in each room. Proper placement not only enhances the look but also improves the function and feel of your home.
