Area rugs serve multiple purposes: they define spaces within larger rooms, add warmth and comfort underfoot, and can be focal points of color and texture that complement interior design.

Choosing the right size and orientation of the rug is crucial to balance the room’s proportions and ensure that the rug serves its intended purpose effectively.

Strategies for Positioning Area Rugs in Various Rooms

• Central Placement: In most living rooms, the area rug should be centered under the main seating arrangement. Ensure the rug is large enough to fit under all the furniture or at least under the front legs of sofas and chairs to tie the group together.

• Floating Rugs: If your seating area floats in the middle of a large room, a rug should anchor all the furniture pieces, ideally with all legs on the rug, to define the space clearly.

• Under the Table: Ensure the dining table and all chairs fit comfortably on the rug, even when chairs are pulled out. Typically, extend the rug at least 24 inches beyond the table on all sides to allow chairs to stay on the rug when seated or moved.

• Bed Framing: Place the rug under the lower two-thirds of the bed, extending out on all sides, or use smaller rugs on each side of the bed for warmth and comfort when stepping out of bed.

• Door Clearance: Position the rug so that it doesn't obstruct the door and extends at least the width of the door area to welcome guests and catch outside dirt effectively.

• Runner Placement: Ensure the runner is centered in the hallway, allowing equal space on both sides for a balanced look. Keep it several inches away from the end walls to avoid a squeezed appearance.

• Complementing Decor: Choose rug colors and patterns that complement the room’s existing decor. A bold rug can be a statement piece, while a neutral rug can balance more vibrant furnishings.

• Creative Layers: For added texture and interest, consider layering rugs. Place a smaller, colorful or textured rug over a larger, neutral one to add depth to the room.

• Directional Flow: Position rugs so that their orientation leads the eye naturally through the space. In living rooms, align rugs with the room's longest dimension to enhance the feeling of space.

• Open Plan Areas: Use multiple rugs to define different areas within an open plan, such as a lounge area, a dining space, and a home office, helping to visually separate activities without physical dividers.

• Symmetrical Placement: Arrange furniture symmetrically around the rug for a formal look, or opt for an asymmetrical setup for a more casual, dynamic feel.

• Balancing Elements: Ensure that the visual weight of furniture is evenly distributed around the rug. This includes balancing color, size, and height of furniture to create a harmonious space.