Short answer: in most living rooms an 8x10 rug (about 240 x 300 cm) is the right size. It lets the front legs of the sofa and armchairs rest on the rug, which ties the seating area together. Choose a 5x8 or 6x9 only in a small room, and a 9x12 or larger for open-plan spaces.
The three layouts
- All legs on the rug: the most luxurious look. The rug is larger than the seating group, usually 9x12 or bigger.
- Front legs on the rug: the most common and forgiving layout. The sofa's front legs sit on the rug, back legs on the floor. Usually 8x10.
- Floating rug: only the coffee table sits on the rug. Works in small rooms with a 5x8, but can make a room feel smaller if the rug is too small.
Leave a border of floor
Keep 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) of floor visible between the rug and the walls. In a narrow room, 20 cm (8 inches) is the minimum.
Quick sizing table
| Room / sofa | Rug size |
|---|---|
| Small room, loveseat | 5x8 (150 x 240 cm) |
| Medium room, 3-seat sofa | 6x9 to 8x10 |
| Sofa + two armchairs | 8x10 (240 x 300 cm) |
| Sectional or open plan | 9x12 (270 x 360 cm) or larger |
Test it with tape
Mark the rug's outline on the floor with painter's tape and live with it for a day. It is the easiest way to see whether the size works with your furniture and walkways.
Handmade rugs are never exactly standard
Moroccan rugs are woven by hand, so a "6x9" might be 6'2" x 9'5". That's why we list the real measured size of every rug. Browse 8x10 Moroccan rugs, see our full size guide, or order a custom size.