5 killer tips for placing a rug under a coffee table

Have you ever looked at the rug under the coffee table and thought something was off?

Does it look right?

If so, you’re not alone.

With tonnes of sizes, colours, patterns, and coffee tables to consider, styling a rug under a coffee table can get confusing.

Let’s get into it.

1. What size should a rug under a coffee table be?

The answer depends on what size your living room is.

In a large room, a rug should encircle all seating furniture (area rug), and a smaller room should have a rug that sits directly under the front two legs, including the coffee table.

Avoid choosing a rug that only fits around the coffee table, as you should ideally have your feet rest upon the rug whilst sitting on the sofa.

Choosing the right rug size for your coffee table is essential for functionality and aesthetics. A too small rug will make your living room look like a sad, lonely island in the middle of the sea of hardwood flooring.

On the other hand, a rug that’s too big will make you feel like you’re hosting a picnic in your living room.

But, as a general rule of thumb, your rug should be large enough to fit under all four legs of the coffee table.

If you’re thinking, “But Housliy, what if my coffee table has tiny little legs?” Don’t worry; I got you! You don’t want your rug to be too small and look like a decorative coaster under your coffee table.

A good trick is to measure the length and width of your coffee table and add at least 18 inches to each side. It will give you enough coverage and ensure your coffee table does not dwarf your rug.

It’s all about finding the right balance between functionality and style. Of course, if you have a small living room, you might not want a rug that takes up too much space.

In that case, a small rug that fits under the coffee table and doesn’t extend beyond the seating area might be the way to go.

Choosing the right rug size for your coffee table is like selecting the right size of shoes for your feet. You don’t want them to be too big or too small, or you’ll end up with blisters or look like a clown.

So, measure twice, buy once, and enjoy the cosy feeling of a perfectly sized rug under your coffee table!

2. Colour

When choosing the right colour for your coffee table rug, there are a few things to keep in mind. One important consideration is the overall colour scheme of your living room.

If you have neutral walls and furniture, add a pop of colour to your rug. On the other hand, if you have bold or colourful furniture, choose a more neutral rug to balance the space.

Colour selection is fundamental in interior design. It affects the atmosphere and overall desired look.

Another thing to consider is the size of your living room. If you have a small living room, a light-coloured rug can help create the illusion of more space.

Light colours like beige, cream, or pale blue can make the room brighter and more open.

If you have a larger living room, you have more flexibility regarding rug colours.

You can choose a bold, vibrant colour like red or orange to make a statement or a darker colour like navy or charcoal to create a cosy, intimate atmosphere.

In addition to the colour of the rug, you can also think about the colour of the coffee table itself. If you have a wooden coffee table, you might choose a rug that complements the natural wood tones, like a beige or brown rug.

If you have a glass or metal coffee table, choose a bold pattern or bright colour rug to add visual interest.

Lastly, feel free to mix and match colours in your living room. You can create a cohesive colour scheme by choosing a rug that includes a few different colours already present in the room.

For example, if you have a blue sofa and a yellow accent chair, you might choose a rug with both blue and yellow in the design to tie the room together. The ideal rugs should complement your colour scheme.

In summary, the colour of your coffee table rug can significantly impact your living room’s overall look and feel.

Consider the size of the room, the colour of your furniture, and the natural light in the space when choosing a rug colour, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and combinations!

One of the easiest ways to make a rug fit the decor of your room is to look at the colours in your living room. The ideal rugs should complement your colour scheme.

An even easier way is using a colour wheel. A colour wheel visually demonstrates the relationship between colours and allows you to create a coherent colour scheme.

You can choose to contrast or compliment your rug with the existing colours. Remember that it does not have to be an exact match, just similar tones.

Here’s a link for a colour wheel to guide you in all aspects of interior designing your home.

3. Style

There are several rug styles to pick from: traditional, contemporary, and antique, to name a few.

Rug style depends on your lifestyle. For example, having an antique rug while young children run about getting food everywhere is less than ideal.

But ultimately, your style is the deciding factor.

Another factor to consider when choosing a rug for under your coffee table is the shape of the rug. Rectangular or square-shaped rugs are the most common options, but if you want to add some interest to your living room, you can opt for a round or oval-shaped rug.

A round rug can complement the shape of a circular coffee table and add a soft, curved element to the space. On the other hand, an oval-shaped rug can work well with a rectangular or oval-shaped coffee table, creating a nice balance between sharp edges and softer curves.

Lastly, remember to choose a rug that complements the overall style of your living room. Choose a simple geometric pattern rug if you have a modern, minimalist living room.

On the other hand, if you have a more traditional or bohemian-style living room, a rug with a bold, colourful pattern or intricate design might be a better fit.

4. Pattern

Take an inventory of your room. Is the sofa one solid colour? If so, a patterned rug can bring personality to a room. Similar to how a patterned couch can balance and ground the space, a neutral rug will, too.

Patterned rugs mask stains, which is worth considering as they are easier to maintain than white or pastel rugs.

When it comes to patterns, there are endless options to choose from. A solid-coloured rug can be a great choice to keep things simple and timeless. Neutral colours like beige, grey, or ivory can blend seamlessly with any décor style, while bolder colours like red or blue can add a pop of colour to your living room.

If you’re looking for texture, a rug with a subtle pattern like stripes or chevron can add interest without overwhelming the space. These patterns work well in modern or minimalist living rooms and can help create a sense of movement.

A floral or geometric pattern rug can be an excellent choice for a more traditional or bohemian-style living room. These patterns are typically more intricate and detailed and can add warmth and cosiness to the space.

You can mix and match patterns in your living room if you’re bold and adventurous. A rug with a bold print, like a Moroccan trellis or a Persian design, can be paired with patterned throw pillows or curtains to create a dynamic, layered look.

One thing to keep in mind when choosing a patterned rug is the size of the pattern. If you have a small living room, a rug with a large, bold pattern can make the space feel smaller and more crowded.

In that case, a rug with a smaller pattern or a solid colour might be a better choice.

Patterns can add a lot of personality and character to your living room, but choosing a design that complements the space’s overall style and doesn’t overwhelm the room is essential.

Consider the size and scale of the pattern, as well as the colours and textures in the rug. I know sounds like a lot, but you can have fun experimenting with different combinations!

Get some rug swatches of the ones you like and try to imagine what it could look like; once you have a winner, go ahead with it!

5. Materials

Regarding the rug’s material, there are many options to choose from.

Wool is famous because it’s durable, easy to clean, and has a natural, cosy feel.

If you want a more luxurious option, go for a silk or viscose rug, adding elegance to your living room.

If you have pets or kids, consider a rug made of a synthetic material like nylon or polyester. These materials are more stain-resistant and accessible to clean than natural fibres, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas.

The material you choose affects the cost; rugs made from wool, cotton or silk tend to be more expensive.

On the other hand, synthetic rugs made from nylon, polypropylene, or polyester are more economical, as they are typically easier to manage and durable.

The amount of work that goes into the rug affects the cost, whether handwoven natural fibre or machine-made.

Where to shop:

The rug company

The rug company has 25 years of producing and sourcing the finest quality rugs globally.

Each rug takes four months to craft by hand, making every single rug entirely individual.

Another benefit is that production can last generations, as it is handled with the utmost reverence. A bespoke service option allows you to design a new piece for your home.

It is perfect for anyone who has the means. The price of rugs ranges from a couple of hundred pounds to 4 figures.

Key features:

• Handwoven
• Materials made from natural sources
• High-quality craftsmanship
• Bespoke service
• Wide variety
• Deliveries to mainland UK addresses are free of charge.
• 30 Day return policy

Wrap up

Whether you are designing a room from scratch or looking to spruce things up and wondering if you should have a rug under the coffee table, the answer is yes, you should.

Rugs serve as an anchor in any room and are an easy home decor accessory that allows you to enhance the look you desire.

Choosing the perfect rug under your coffee table balances functionality, aesthetics, and personal style. Consider the rug’s shape, material, and overall design, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your choices!

In conclusion, choosing the right rug under your coffee table is an important decision that can significantly impact your living room’s overall look and feel. By considering factors such as size, pattern, colour, and material, you can find a rug that complements your décor style and meets your practical needs.

When it comes to size, choosing a rug proportionate to the size of your coffee table and the rest of your furniture is essential. A rug that is too small can look awkward, while a rug that is too large can overwhelm the space.

When it comes to patterns, you have many options to choose from. A subtle pattern like stripes or chevron can add texture without being too busy, while a bold print like a Moroccan trellis or a floral design can make a statement.

Consider your living room’s overall colour scheme and the space’s size when it comes to colour. A light-coloured rug can make a small room feel more open, while a darker rug can create a cosy atmosphere.

Lastly, regarding material, you should consider durability, comfort, and maintenance factors. Natural fibres like wool and cotton are often the most durable and easy to clean, while synthetic materials like nylon can be more affordable and stain-resistant.

Overall, finding the perfect rug under your coffee table requires a bit of thought and consideration. Still, the result can be a beautiful and functional addition to your living room décor. Happy rug shopping!

Check out our other blog post on coffee table accessories for further tips, and comment below with your thoughts. I would love to hear from you!

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