Choosing the Right Rug Size for Your Living Room

A well-chosen rug can make or break your living room design. Get the size wrong, and your space might feel awkwardly unbalanced. Get it right, and your entire room comes together with effortless style.

When it comes to choosing the right rug size for your living room, there’s more to consider than just colour and pattern. Size and placement play a crucial role in making your space feel cohesive and inviting. Let's break it down with expert-backed guidelines to help you find the perfect rug for your home. 

Why Rug Size Matters

Rugs do more than add warmth and texture—they define a space. A rug that’s too small makes a room feel disconnected and unfinished. On the other hand, the right size creates flow, anchors your furniture, and even makes your living room appear larger. Rug size selection isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function too.

How to Pick the Right Rug Size: Key Guidelines

1. Measure Your Space First

Before shopping, grab a measuring tape and painter’s tape. Outline different rug sizes on the floor to visualise how they’ll fit within your space. Consider architectural elements like built-in furniture, door swings, and fireplaces. Your rug should complement your room’s scale, not fight against it.

2. Follow These Rug Placement Rules

Depending on your living room layout, here are the best placement strategies:

Option 1: Full Coverage (Ideal for Spacious Living Rooms)

• The rug should be large enough to accommodate all major furniture pieces (sofa, chairs, coffee table) with at least 20cm (8 inches) of rug extending beyond.
• Leave at least 30-50cm (12-20 inches) between the rug and the walls to frame the space properly.

Option 2: Front Legs on the Rug (Most Common Layout)

• The rug should extend under the front legs of the sofa and chairs, creating a unified look.
• Ensure at least 15-20cm (6-8 inches) of extra rug space on each side of the sofa.

Option 3: Floating Rug (A Bold Choice)

• The rug is placed only under the coffee table, with seating completely off it.
• Works best in modern, open-concept spaces, but should be used carefully—keep the gap between the sofa and rug under 12cm (5 inches) to avoid a disconnected look.

3. Choose the Right Standard Size

Most living rooms work well with these common rug sizes:

• 160cm x 230cm – Great for compact spaces, small apartments, or under a coffee table.
• 200cm x 290cm – Fits a standard three-seater sofa with front legs on the rug.
• 240cm x 330cm – Ideal for larger living rooms where all furniture sits partially on the rug.
• 300cm x 400cm – A perfect choice for spacious, open-plan living areas.

4. Consider the Scale of Your Furniture

A rug size for the living room should be proportional to your furniture. If your sofa is 230cm wide, your rug should extend at least 15-20cm (6-8 inches) beyond each side. A larger rug makes a space feel generous and well-designed.

Final Tips for a Perfect Fit

• Test Before You Buy: Use painter’s tape to map out the rug size before committing or borrow your selected rug from Ochoco and take it home to try. It’s a game-changer!
• Mind the Walkways: Keep at least 75-150cm (30-36 inches) of walking space between furniture where possible. In tighter spaces, aim for at least 45cm (18 inches.)
• Don’t Overwhelm the Room: If a rug is too large, it can look like awkward wall-to-wall carpeting. Leave breathing room (about 30-50cm from the walls) for balance.
• Bigger is Often Better: A too-small rug makes a space feel disconnected. If in doubt, size up!

Make Your Living Room Shine

The right rug transforms a space, making it feel cozy, stylish, and well-proportioned. By following these placement guidelines and choosing the right rug size for your living room, you’ll create a space that feels intentional and inviting. Measure carefully, consider your layout, and don’t be afraid to go bigger—your living room will thank you!

Looking for high-quality, stylish rugs? Explore Ochoco’s curated collection of Hand Woven Rugs, Kilim Rugs, and Hand Knotted Rugs to find the perfect fit for your space.

For rugs on a budget, checkout our synthetic fibre Machine Made Rugs.  Stylish rugs at a fraction of the cost.