How To Size A Rug For A Dining Room

If you've ever cursed at a rug for being too small, too big, or askew under your dining room table, you're not alone. Choosing the right area rug size for your dining room is key to achieving a pulled-together look that feels balanced and comfortable for all. While there are some general guidelines to follow, the best way to determine rug size is to measure your dining room and furniture layout. We're walking you through the process step-by-step, so you can find the perfect rug for your dining room. ### Measure The Room The first step is to measure the length and width of your dining room. This will give you a sense of the overall space you have to work with. As a general rule of thumb, your rug should be at least 2 feet shorter than the length and width of the room. This will help to define the dining area and prevent the rug from looking cramped or overwhelming. ### Determine Furniture Placement Once you know the dimensions of your dining room, it's time to think about how you want to arrange your furniture. Where will the table be placed? How many chairs will you need? Will you have a buffet or other furniture pieces in the room? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you determine the ideal rug size and shape. ### Choose The Right Rug Shape The shape of your rug will depend on the shape of your dining room and furniture. A rectangular rug is the most common choice, but you could also use a square or round rug. If you have a large dining room, you could even use multiple rugs to create a more layered look. ### Consider Rug Size Once you've chosen the shape of your rug, it's time to determine the size. The general rule is that the rug should be large enough to fit the dining table and chairs comfortably. The ideal rug size will also depend on the size of your dining room. If you have a small dining room, you'll want to choose a smaller rug. If you have a large dining room, you can choose a larger rug. ### Center The Rug Once you have your rug, it's time to center it under the dining table. This will help to create a balanced look and make the room feel more inviting. To center the rug, measure the distance from the edge of the table to the edge of the room on all four sides. Then, adjust the rug until it is evenly centered. ### Secure The Rug Once your rug is centered, it's important to secure it in place. This will prevent the rug from slipping or sliding around, which could be dangerous. There are a few different ways to secure a rug, such as using rug tape, rug anchors, or a rug pad. ### Add Finishing Touches Once your rug is secured, you can add some finishing touches to complete the look. For example, you could add a rug pad to make the rug more comfortable underfoot. You could also add a few throw pillows or a vase of flowers to the rug to add some personality.