GUIDE The Ultimate Rug Size Guide for UK Homes

  • Choosing the right rug size is essential for creating balance and harmony in a room.
  • A rug that’s too small can make your space feel disjointed, while an oversized one may overwhelm the layout.
  • This guide helps you pick the perfect rug for every room in your UK home.

SIZES Standard Rug Sizes in the UK

  • 80 x 150 cm – Ideal for compact areas, hallways, or under small coffee tables.
  • 120 x 170 cm – Great for small lounges or medium living rooms.
  • 160 x 230 cm – Perfect for a 6-seater dining table or to define a living space.
  • 200 x 300 cm – Works well in larger lounges or under a double bed.
  • 240 x 340 cm – Fits spacious living rooms or under a king/super-king bed.
  • 280 x 360 cm – Ideal for big rooms with corner sofas or multiple seating zones.

Match your rug size to the function and proportions of your room.

FUNCTION Understanding Rug Sizes and Their Role

  • Rugs unify furniture, define zones, and create visual balance.
  • Room size & layout: Larger rugs feel cohesive, smaller ones suit compact areas.
  • Defining zones: In open-plan homes, rugs separate dining and seating areas.
  • When unsure, go larger — it makes spaces feel bigger.

LIVING Living Room Rug Size Guide

  • All furniture on: Best for large rooms; place sofas, chairs, and tables entirely on the rug.
  • Front legs only: Ideal for mid-size spaces; keeps balance without overpowering.
  • Coffee table only: For compact rooms, centre the rug under the table to define the area.

DINING Dining Room Rug Size Guide

  • Shape matters: Rectangular rugs pair with rectangular tables; round tables suit round rugs.
  • Allow extra space: Ensure 60–80 cm extra around the table for chairs to move freely.
  • Flat-woven rugs: Easier for sliding chairs and cleaning.

BEDROOM Bedroom Rug Size Guide

  • Under the bed: Extend the rug 60 cm beyond each side for balance.
  • Side runners: Add warmth and softness beside each bed edge.
  • Front half placement: Position under the lower two-thirds to save space in smaller rooms.

FAQ Frequently Asked Rug Size Questions

  • How do you know what size rug you need? – Measure the area and choose one that complements furniture layout.
  • What are standard rug sizes? – Common UK sizes include 120 × 170, 160 × 230, and 200 × 300 cm.
  • Is it better too big or too small? – A larger rug feels more cohesive.
  • Should a rug cover the whole floor? – No, leave 18–24 inches of border.
  • What is the rug rule? – Keep at least the front legs of furniture on the rug.

PLACEMENT Rug Placement Rules by Room

  • Living Room: Centre the rug under seating.
  • Dining Room: Frame the dining table with extra space for chairs.
  • Bedroom: Extend beyond the bed edges for balance.

TIPS Additional Rug Considerations

  • Over carpet: Layering rugs adds texture and depth.
  • Under the sofa: Keep at least the front legs on the rug for cohesion.
  • Use an underlay: Prevents slipping, protects floors, and adds cushioning.
  • Layering rugs: Perfect for boho or eclectic interiors; mix textures carefully.
  • Material matters: Choose wool for warmth or flat-weave for high-traffic areas.

INSIGHT Do Rugs Help with Insulation?

  • Yes — rugs retain warmth, reduce noise, and make rooms cosier.
  • Thicker wool rugs perform best for insulation.

PLACEMENT How to Place a Rug for Maximum Impact

  • Keep the rug central to anchor the furniture.
  • In large spaces, all legs on the rug create unity.
  • In smaller rooms, front legs only works best.

CONCLUSION Choosing the Right Rug Size

  • Rug size dramatically changes room proportion and comfort.
  • Always measure carefully and visualise placement first.
  • At Rug Love, we offer every standard UK size to suit all room types.

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