How to Put Area Rugs in Living Room: A Guide to Enhancing Your Space
Incorporating area rugs into your living room can instantly transform the look and feel of the space. Area rugs add warmth, color, and texture to the room, and can also help define different areas within the living room. However, placing an area rug correctly is essential to ensure that it complements the room and doesn’t detract from its overall aesthetic. Here’s a guide on how to put area rugs in your living room effectively.
1. Choose the Right Size
The first step in placing an area rug in your living room is to choose the right size. The rug should be large enough to accommodate the furniture without leaving any bare floor exposed. As a general rule, the rug should be at least 2 feet larger than the coffee table in the center of the room. If you have a smaller living room, a smaller rug can work well as long as it is still large enough to define the seating area.
2. Consider the Shape of the Room
The shape of your living room can also influence the placement of your area rug. For rectangular rooms, placing the rug in the center of the room is often the best option. However, if you have a square or L-shaped room, consider using two smaller rugs to define the seating areas or to cover the most used spaces.
3. Determine the Layout of Your Furniture
Before placing the rug, it’s essential to consider the layout of your furniture. The rug should be large enough to accommodate the front legs of all furniture pieces, including the sofa, chairs, and coffee table. This will ensure that the rug is a functional piece and not just a decorative one.
4. Center the Rug
Once you have determined the layout of your furniture, center the rug in the room. This will create a balanced and cohesive look. If you have a fireplace, placing the rug in front of it can draw the eye to the focal point of the room.
5. Use the Rug as a Focal Point
An area rug can serve as a focal point in your living room. Choose a rug with a bold pattern or color to draw attention to the area. Alternatively, a neutral rug can provide a subtle backdrop for the rest of the room’s decor.
6. Consider the Color Scheme
The color of the area rug should complement the existing color scheme in the room. If you have a neutral color palette, a brightly colored rug can add a pop of color. Conversely, if your room is already vibrant, a neutral rug can help ground the space.
7. Add Rugs to Define Areas
If you have a large living room, consider using area rugs to define different areas within the space. For example, you can place a rug in front of the television to create a cozy home theater area or use a rug to separate the seating area from the dining area.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively place area rugs in your living room to enhance its beauty and functionality. Remember, the key is to choose the right size, shape, and color to complement your existing decor and create a cohesive look.
