When decorating your vacation rental, rugs are more than just decorative pieces; they help define spaces, add warmth, and protect your floors. However, choosing the right size rug for each room is crucial to ensuring a balanced and inviting look. Here are some guidelines to help you pick the perfect rug for every room in your rental.

Keep it off the walls

One of the golden rules for choosing a rug size is ensuring it doesn’t overwhelm the room. A rug should be at least one foot (12 inches) away from the walls on all sides. This approach allows for a balanced look, letting your floor peek through while still giving the room a cohesive feel. A rug that stretches wall-to-wall can make the space feel smaller and cramped, which is the opposite of the inviting atmosphere you want in a vacation rental.

Avoid the door swing zone

Another important factor is ensuring that your rug doesn't interfere with the door's swing. A rug that gets caught under a door can be both an annoyance and a tripping hazard. Before purchasing, measure the space the door sweeps over and choose a rug that sits outside this area. This attention to detail will prevent wear and tear on the rug and make sure your guests can move easily throughout the room.

Positioning under furniture

For larger furniture pieces like beds, couches, and nightstands, the rug should anchor the items in the room. Ideally, it should sit underneath at least the front two legs of any large furniture pieces on the edge of the room. This helps to create a unified look and ensures the rug doesn't appear to be floating in the space. For instance, in a bedroom, the rug should extend under the front two legs of the bed and, if possible, the nightstands too. This placement keeps everything grounded and visually connected.

Practical examples by room

• Living Room: A rug should sit under the front two legs of the couch and any armchairs, extending beyond the coffee table. This setup pulls the seating area together and makes the room feel cohesive.
• Bedroom: Place a rug under the bottom two-thirds of the bed, extending on both sides. This placement allows for a soft landing when getting out of bed, without the rug being overwhelmed by the furniture.
• Dining Room: In the dining area, the rug should be large enough to accommodate all four legs of the dining table and the chairs when pulled out. This ensures a stable dining setup, prevents chairs from catching on the rug's edges, and prevents scratching up your floor.

Choosing the right rug size for your vacation rental is about more than just aesthetics—it's about creating a comfortable and functional space for your guests. By following these simple guidelines, you can enhance the look and feel of every room, ensuring your rental is both stylish and practical.