How to Select Area Rugs
The right area rug can help bring a room together. Learn how to select the perfect area rugs for your home in this Lowe’s video:
In the living room, when it comes to size, the traditional rule of thumb is to measure the seating area and get the closest size up so all the furniture legs will be on the rug. But don’t be afraid to break the rules; smaller budget-friendly rugs can work too. Get a size that allows just the front legs to sit on the rug, or try no legs on the rug. On the other hand, to fill the entire room, go with a rug that will be at least two feet from walls.
You don’t have to settle for one rug. Try a smaller rug on top of a larger one. Two different rugs can define a sitting area. You can even use a rug over carpet; just be sure to use carpet tape to keep it from moving.
Don’t be afraid to use shapes other than a rectangle. Round rugs are great for seating vignettes, passageways and entrances.
In dining rooms, the rug should extend at least two feet beyond the size of the table on all sides.
Kitchen rugs are helpful where you stand the most, like in front of the sink or stove – perfect spots for runners. Whatever style you choose, keep it about six inches away from the cabinets. A rug pad can help to keep it from slipping.
In the bedroom, treat the bed as a focal point. Measure it, and get a rug that extends 24 inches on each side, unless it’s against a wall. Go ahead and layer rugs too. Another tip – runners on each side of the bed can provide a bit of visual interest.
When it comes to entry areas, the right rug will give a great first impression. A rug that’s wider than the door is the way to go.
Passageways are ideal for runners. Make sure to have at least six inches of floor space on all sides.
When it comes to patterns, complement the design of your furniture or curtains. Choose a subtle rug to help balance curtains with a bold design.
It’s also helpful to consider foot traffic when buying a rug. Low pile works best in high traffic areas, and details patterns can help hide stains. High pile rugs are soft, so consider using them in bedrooms and sitting areas.
Another consideration is material – synthetic vs. natural. Natural fibers look and feel great, but some are more susceptible to staining and fading. Synthetics are more budget-friendly and resist staining and fading better.
