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When decorating a room, area rugs are an important element that can tie everything together. However, with so many sizes and shapes to choose from, picking the right rug can be tricky. Follow these tips to select the ideal area rug dimensions and silhouette to suit each space.

Living Room Rugs

The living room is often the largest space that calls for an area rug. Aim for a rug that is big enough to define the sitting area while allowing enough border space for walking around. Rectangular rugs work well here, scaled to leave 18-24 inches between the rug perimeter and walls/furniture. An 8x10 or 9x12 rug is suitable for many standard living spaces.

For narrow living rooms, a runner rug adds style down the center without overpowering. Or try a circle rug 5-8 feet in diameter to create a cozy conversation nook that doesn’t block flow.

Dining Room Rugs

Given all the movement of dining chairs, safeguard your floors with a pad underneath dining area rugs. Ideal dimensions are 2 feet shorter and narrower than the table on all sides. A round dining table can adopt a round, octagonal or square rug shape of the same relative proportions.

For rectangular tables, rectangular area rugs tend to work best, aligned underneath just the table and chair legs rather than stretching wall-to-wall. Allow ample surrounding space for chair pushback without slipping off.

Bedroom Rugs

Bedrooms have lighter furniture pieces to move across rugs, making these spaces prime real estate to layer textures underfoot. Anchor a floating bed with rectangular rugs extending 18-24 inches on three sides, leaving the entry side exposed. Runners alongside beds protect toes from cold flooring while adding color.

For reaching full rug coverage, fluff and texture is key. Shag or sheepskin natural fiber rugs provide cloud-like comfort under the feet and visual softness ideal for relaxing bedrooms.

Entryway Rugs

Take the utility approach for entryway area rugs. These rugs mainly need to handle foot traffic and moisture while presenting an attractive welcome. Rectangular and runner silhouettes contain messes in efficient shapes aligned with doors and hallways.

Natural fiber entry rugs like coir or sisal scrape shoes effectively to trap dirt before it invades. For high traffic households, machine washable cotton rugs withstand regular upkeep best. Size entry rugs appropriately for steps taken onto the rug and for jacket/bag storage benches if relevant.

Bathroom Rugs

Prioritize safety with skid-resistant backing on bathroom area rug sizes scaled to leave generous space around sinks, tubs, and toilet areas. Contain water splashes without posing tripping hazards.

For powder rooms, circular rugs spanning 2-4 feet in diameter decorate without cluttering movement. Larger master bathrooms may call for rectangular 4x6 or 5x8 foot rugs offering wiggle room. Position bathmat rugs wisely to absorb drips and exit steps.

Choosing rug sizes attuned to human scale and room PURPOSE ensures every area rug embraces its ideal place within your well-appointed rooms.

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