How to size a rug without guessing

In a living room, all front legs of the sofa and chairs should sit on the rug. If the room is small, a rug that holds the whole conversation area still looks calmer than a tiny island floating under the coffee table.

Dining rugs need about 24 inches beyond the table edge so chairs stay on the pile when someone pulls out. In an office, a low flatweave under the desk and chair keeps the floor quiet and the chair easy to roll.

Pattern hides daily life. A flat solid shows every crumb. Choose based on how the room is actually used, not only how it photographs.