Sizing up that magic carpet: Good news for folks in the market for an area rug. There are rules–helpful, definite guidelines–for determining what size works best in a certain room or situation. Tips come from three local stores–Carlson’s Fine Rugs & Floorcoverings in Geneva, D. Edmunds Interiors in Burr Ridge and Village Carpets in Northfield.
Room-size rugs: There should be a border of bare floor around the rug. So measure the room and subtract 3 to 4 feet from the length and width. And then look for a rug close to those dimensions.
Dining room rugs: The key here is getting a rug that will extend beyond the chairs when they are pulled out from the table. Choose one that is at least 4 feet longer and wider than the dining room table.
Hallway runners: The general rule: 4 to 6 inches narrower and 12 to 18 inches shorter than the hallway.
Here and there: Scatter rugs add a special touch to smaller spaces such as a hearth, a bedside or the area in front of sinks, stoves and doors. They come in 2-by-4-foot and 4-by-6-foot sizes.