Skip to content
MararamiroMararamiro

How to Place a Rug in a Living Room

And Also Achieve Stylish Rug Placement Throughout Your Home

Finding the perfect rug to complement and enhance your home's design can often feel like a daunting task, especially when faced with irregular room shapes or design elements that seem disjointed. Hi, I’m Tanya Tessier, the founder of Mararamiro Home, and I'm here to share with you the subtle art of placing rugs throughout your home. In my journey with interior design, I've found that a well-placed rug not only enhances the beauty of a room but also defines its purpose and mood. From the living room to more intimate corners of your home, let’s explore how to perfectly position our exquisite rugs from makers like Massimo Copenhagen and Sera Helsinki, ensuring every area feels harmoniously styled and uniquely yours.

Vintage Ashanti Stool No. 1
Laine Rug by Sera Helsinki seen in Sheena Murphy's home.

A rug is more than just a floor covering; it's the anchor of a room that defines its boundaries and sets its tone. The right rug adds depth, warmth, and a sense of cohesion, turning a simple space into a sanctuary.

TANYA TESSIER - Founder, Mararamiro Home

In The Living Room: Create A Focal Point

The living room is often the heart of a home, a place for relaxation and social gatherings. To anchor your living space, place a large rug in the center, ensuring it's big enough for all the furniture, like sofas and chairs, to comfortably sit on it. This creates a unified look that invites conversation and coziness. A common misstep is selecting a rug that is too small, which can make the room appear disjointed and poorly proportioned. To avoid this, start by considering the dimensions of the room and the furniture layout. A good rule of thumb is to have at least the front legs of all furniture on the rug. A rug from Massimo Copenhagen, known for their uplifting colors and pleasant textures, can add warmth and character to this central gathering spot. By choosing a rug that fits well within your living room, you create an inviting atmosphere where every piece of furniture feels connected and purposeful.

Mararamiro Studio
Grey Earth Bamboo rug by Massimo Copenhagen - Shop now
Desert Sand Earth Bamboo rug by Massimo Copenhagen - Shop now
Nurja hand woven rug by Sera Helsinki - Shop Now
Mararamiro Studio
E-1027 hand knotted rug by Sera Helsinki - Shop Now

IN THE DINING ROOM: DEFINE THE DINING AREA

In the dining room, a rug serves as a visual frame for the dining table and chairs. The key is to choose a rug that extends beyond the dining set when all chairs are pulled out. This not only protects your floors but also defines the dining area as a distinct space within your home. Opt for durable, easy-to-clean materials that can handle the occasional spill, reflecting both practicality and elegance. Many homeowners err by choosing rugs that are too small, causing rooms to appear fragmented and out of proportion. Ensuring the rug extends at least 24 inches beyond the table on all sides allows chairs to be pulled out smoothly, preventing them from catching on the edges and making dining comfortable and practical. With the right rug, your dining area can transform into a cohesive and elegant space that enhances every meal.

Earth Rug in Blush by Massimo Copenhagen
Earth Rug in Blush by Massimo Copenhagen - Shop Now
Laine rug by Sera Helsinki - Shop Now
Earth Natural in Light Beige by Massimo Copenhagen - Shop Now

IN THE BEDROOM: ENHANCE COMFORT AND STYLE

Placing a rug in the bedroom can transform the space into a serene retreat. I recommend positioning a large rug under the bed, allowing it to extend at least 24 inches around the bed. This layout offers a soft landing for your feet each morning, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment you wake up. Rugs with soothing colors and gentle textures from Sera Helsinki can add a layer of tranquility and warmth, enhancing the room's comfort and aesthetic. Selecting the right size rug is pivotal in achieving a balanced and appealing interior. By choosing a rug that fits well within your bedroom, you not only add comfort and style but also create a space that feels harmonious and restful.

Polku rug by Sera Helsinki
Polku rug by Sera Helsinki
Earth Rug in Moss Green by Massimo Copenhagen - Shop now
Earth Rug   in Moss Green by Massimo Copenhagen - Shop now

IN THE HALLWAY: CONNECT SPACES GRACEFULLY

Hallways often get overlooked, but a well-placed runner can turn them into a remarkable part of your home’s design. A runner from Sera Helsinki, handwoven and full of character, not only adds visual interest but also guides the flow from room to room. When tackling uniquely shaped rooms or spaces where the furniture and decor feel disconnected, choosing the right rug can act as a creative solution. Ensure the runner is a few inches narrower than the hallway and leaves space at both ends to frame the pathway beautifully. This strategy not only addresses the irregularities of the space but also introduces an element of surprise and visual harmony. By connecting spaces gracefully with a thoughtfully chosen rug, you create a cohesive and inviting environment throughout your home.

Senufo Stool pictured at Mararamiro Studio

IN THE KITCHEN: ADD WARMTH AND FUNCTION

Kitchens benefit greatly from smaller rugs placed in high-traffic areas, such as in front of the sink or stove. These rugs should be durable and easy to clean, given the kitchen's functional nature. A vibrant rug from Massimo Copenhagen can also provide a pop of color in a space typically dominated by appliances and cabinetry, making the kitchen feel more inviting and lively. A strategically placed rug can do wonders in tying together disparate design elements within a room. If certain aspects of your room's decor feel isolated or out of sync, a thoughtfully chosen rug can serve as a visual connector, marrying different colors and textures with elegance. Opt for rugs that either complement or thoughtfully contrast with the predominant colors and patterns in the room. This not only ties loose ends but also elevates the overall aesthetic, making the space feel intentionally designed and cohesive.

Kitchen runner rug

IN THE BATHROOM: COMBINE LUXURY WITH PRACTICALITY

A small, plush rug in the bathroom can make a big impact, turning an ordinary space into a spa-like environment. Choose a rug that can withstand humidity and is easy to wash, yet feels luxurious underfoot. This small addition can elevate the everyday experience of your bathroom, blending functionality with indulgence. In more private areas of the home, like bathrooms, the right rug can transform an ordinary space into a sanctuary of comfort and style. By thoughtfully addressing these unique scenarios, your rug becomes more than just a decor item—it transforms into a vital link that enhances and unifies your living environment. Rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are fundamental components that can define, refine, and elevate the overall charm and character of your home.

Nurja rug by Sera Helsinki
Nurja rug by Sera Helsinki

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER: THE ART OF RUG PLACEMENT

By carefully selecting and positioning rugs throughout your home, you not only solve the common issues of disproportionate and discordant design but also enhance the functionality and beauty of each space. Rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are fundamental components that can define, refine, and elevate the overall charm and character of your home. At Mararamiro Home, we believe that every piece, especially a rug, is the soul of the room—choose wisely, place thoughtfully, and enjoy the beauty it brings to your life.


Whether you're redesigning a single room or your entire home, the right rug can make all the difference. Explore our exquisite collection of rugs from Massimo Copenhagen and Sera Helsinki to find the perfect piece that will transform your space. Visit our website to discover how these beautifully crafted rugs can bring warmth, elegance, and a sense of harmony to your home. Start your journey with us today and create a home that truly reflects your personal style and taste.

RUG PLACEMENT FAQS

What size rug should I choose for my living room?

For a balanced look, choose a rug that is large enough for at least the front legs of all seating pieces to rest on it. This typically means selecting a rug that leaves a border of 12 to 18 inches between the edge of the rug and the walls.

Do I need a rug pad, and what type should I choose?

Yes, a rug pad is highly recommended as it provides cushioning, prevents slipping, and extends the life of your rug. Choose a rug pad that suits your floor type—felt pads for hardwood floors provide extra cushioning, while rubber pads offer a non-slip grip ideal for high-traffic areas.

What type of rug is best for high-traffic areas like hallways?

Opt for durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. For example, the Belize Rugs from Massimo Copenhagen, are made from agave plant fibres in a tight weave and are known for their durability, making them good for high-traffic areas of the home.

read more stories

Avocado, Tomato and Roasted Beet Ceviche

Explore our latest recipe: Avocado, Tomato, and Roasted Beet Ceviche from the Flamingo Estate Cookbook. A vibrant, plant-based dish perfect for summer gatherings or light meals.

More →
Exclusive Insight: Tanya of Mararamiro Home on Artisan Decor and Cultural Narratives

Discover the unique world of Mararamiro Home in this exclusive interview with founder Tanya.

More →
Pretty Secrets — PS: I<3U - DesignTO Festival 2024

Mararamiro and Pretty Secrets invites you to ‘PS: I <3 U’. This is the second in a series of exhibitions, with the inaugural show having been presented by Spring Studios...

More →

Cart

Your cart is currently empty.

Start Shopping

Select options