Choosing the perfect rug to anchor your sectional sofa helps pull together a stylish, functional living room. But what size and shape rug works best?
Should you match bold patterns or solid neutrals? What fabrics withstand family life? This comprehensive guide has the answers.
You’ll discover specific recommendations for coordinating rug dimensions with sectional sizes, creative rug shape options beyond basic rectangles, tips on stylistic harmony between rugs and sofas, the best durable fabrics for high-traffic sectionals, and construction details that signal quality.
With this knowledge, you’ll select a rug-sectional combo tailored to your space and lifestyle for years of enjoyment.
Measure Your Sectional
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The first step is to take measurements of your sectional. This includes the overall length and depth. If you have an L-shaped sectional, measure both sides. For a U-shaped sectional, measure the length of each segment.
Record the exact measurements, as this will determine what size rug will best fit your sectional sofa. Standard sectional lengths can range from about 75 inches for smaller sectionals up to 135 inches for very large sectionals. The depth is also important to note for figuring out rug placement.
Take Into Account Your Room Size
In addition to sectional measurements, you’ll also want to consider the size and layout of your living room. Make note of any doorways, windows, other furniture pieces, or architectural details that will impact rug size and placement.
Evaluate where you want to place the sectional within the room and how much floor space you want the rug to occupy around it. This will help you choose a rug size that complements both your sectional sofa and living room.
Choose a Rug at Least 12-18 Inches Larger Than Your Sectional
A general guideline when selecting a rug for your sectional is to choose a size at least 12-18 inches larger than the sofa itself. This provides a border of visible flooring to frame the rug and prevent it from looking too small. The exception would be if you plan to place the entire sectional atop the rug so all feet are on the rug. In that case, size accordingly so all feet fit.
For standard rectangular sectionals 6-8 feet long, an 8×10 or 9×12 rug allows for a nice border while accommodating the sofa. For larger sectionals up to 11 feet long, a rug in the range of 10×14 or 12×15 creates pleasant proportions.
Match Chaise Sectionals to Rug Length
Chaise sectionals present another consideration, as they combine a sofa with a lounge extension on one side. The chaise length impacts the proportions, so take this into account when measuring. The ideal rug size for a chaise sectional corresponds to the entire length – the combined sofa and chaise portions.
For example, if the sofa portion is 90 inches and the chaise extension is 69 inches, your total length is 159 inches. So you’d want to look for a rug around 12×16 or 14×18 to beautifully complement the chaise sectional span.
Select the Right Shape Rug for Your Sectional Layout
Beyond dimensions, the particular shape and configuration of your sectional sofa also plays a role in selecting a coordinating rug. Sectionals come in L-shaped, U-shaped, as well as standard rectangular and curved shapes. The right rug shape and placement can accentuate the sectional’s footprint in the room.
- For a rectangular sectional, a rectangular rug with the sofa placed along one length is a natural fit. Square rugs also pair well with rectangular sectionals.
- An L-shaped sectional looks best with a rectangular rug of corresponding size. Place the sectional along one length of the rug and allow the rug to extend further than the end of the “L”.
- For a U-shaped sectional, you can treat it as one long sectional and use a large rectangular rug on the entire sofa rest. Another option is using a square or round rug in the center that fits inside the “U” shape.
- A curved sectional adapts beautifully to a round rug sized to fit inside the curve. The circular shape complements the arc of the sofa. Rectangular rugs also work with curved sectionals.
Layer Rugs for Visual Interest
One creative trick interior designers employ is layering rugs to add visual dimension. If you wish to use a smaller rug but still want sufficient coverage beneath your sectional, try topping it with a larger natural fiber area rug. The smaller rug – like a patterned wool rug – nested inside the larger unifies the look.
Jute, sisal, seagrass, and hemp rugs make ideal foundations. A slim border of the bottom rug peeking out frames the smaller rug. This technique can be especially helpful if your ideal room rug size exceeds budget. Layering a 5×8 sheepskin or kilim rug on an 8×10 jute rug creates a pulled-together feel at a more affordable cost.
Determine the Best Sectional and rug Layout
Now that you have selected the right rug size and shape, it’s time to map out the optimal sectional and rug layout for your living room. Here are some standard sectional-rug placement options:
- Entire sectional atop rug – This creates a cohesive feel and is recommended if space allows. Make sure the rug extends 12-18 inches past the sectional length and depth to frame it.
- Front feet on rug – Placing just the front side of the sectional on the rug leaves a gap that defines the seating area while exposing more floor. The rug should extend well past the front of the sofa.
- Rug under the coffee table – For a more eclectic look, position the area rug under the sectional’s coffee table rather than the sofa itself. About 18 inches of floor space between the sectional and rug keeps the separation purposeful.
- Centered floating rug – Having a rug “float” in the center of the seating area is a popular placement technique. The rug is centered in front of the sectional, becoming the focal point.
Tips for Choosing a Rug Style for Your Sectional
Rug material, color, and pattern significantly impact how your sectional sofa appears in the living room. So give special attention to the style of rug you select. Here are tips for choosing a rug with your sectional in mind:
- Anchor with natural fiber – Natural fiber rugs like jute, sisal, and wool bring warmth. Their textures beautifully contrast upholstered furniture.
- Add softness underfoot – Rugs with plush piles feel heavenly under bare feet and add coziness. Saxony and shag rugs are ideal choices.
- Complement with color – Choose rug colors and patterns that coordinate with sectional fabrics for a pulled-together aesthetic. Solid-colored rugs or simple patterns are versatile pairings.
- Define space with shape – Round, octagonal, and oval rugs distinguish sitting areas in open floor plans. The shape delineates the sectional’s space.
- Make a pattern pop – If your sectional has a subtle solid or stripe, choose a rug with a graphic print as a fun juxtaposition. Bold patterns energize simply styled sectionals.
- Unify with similar hues – Matching rug and sectional color families creates flow. A Navy blue sectional with a navy rug punctuated by sky-blue pillows is a foolproof combination.
Now that you know how to properly size and select the ideal rug for styling your sectional sofa, you’re ready to pull together a fabulously furnished living room. With these tips in mind, you can confidently choose an area rug that adds comfort underfoot, brings visual harmony, and showcases your unique home decorating style.
The Best Rug Materials for High Traffic Areas
A rug can make all the difference in a high-traffic area of the home, like a living room or family room. But choosing the right material is key. Sturdy, durable rugs not only withstand plenty of footsteps but also add style and warmth to your space. Here’s an overview of the best rug materials for high-traffic areas in terms of longevity and appearance.
Wool
Hands down, wool is the premier rug fiber. Its durability has made it the standard for rug-making over centuries. Wool area rugs withstand heavy use thanks to wool’s resilience. It’s soil-resistant too. Stylish wool rugs come in every color and weave imaginable, fitting any room’s décor. Pile wool rugs feel wonderfully plush.
Sisal
Made from sisal plant fibers native to tropical regions, sisal area rugs offer exceptional strength and stain resistance. Natural, biodegradable sisal has an appealing visible woven texture. Sisal rugs are casual, durable, and work beautifully in high traffic living spaces when you want a laidback vibe.
Jute
Like sisal, natural jute has visible woven fibers that make a subtle textural statement. Jute area rugs are super sturdy and affordably priced. The natural fiber surface shows less wear over time than synthetics. Jute’s earthy vibe suits rustic, contemporary, or eclectic rooms.
Seagrass
For coastal flair, seagrass rugs make a fantastic choice. The straw-like woven seagrass has a chunky profile but a smooth face that stands up superbly to daily use. Natural seagrass fibers repel stains, are antimicrobial, and are easy to clean. Stylish seagrass rugs fit casually elegant living areas.
Synthetic
Today’s top synthetic rug fibers like nylon and polyester boast outstanding durability, stain resistance, and colorfastness at more budget-friendly prices. Well-crafted synthetic rugs mimic silk, wool, and other luxury fabrics. But they’re functionally designed for heavy traffic. Just be sure to buy a short dense pile for optimal wear.
Natural Hide
For a unique high-traffic area rug, choose a natural cowhide or sheepskin rug. Their thick, dense hides contain natural oils making them liquid-resistant. Hair-on hides absorb foot traffic impact. Hides develop a gorgeous patina over time. Layer cowhide and sheepskin rugs over carpets for added wear protection.
Tips for Rug Placement with Sectional Sofas
Once you’ve selected the perfect area rug for your sectional sofa, proper placement is key to enhancing both pieces. Follow these top tips from interior designers for rug placement with sectionals:
- Face the main seating area of the sectional onto the rug. This creates a welcoming area for sitting and conversation.
- Anchor the sectional and define the space by placing the entire piece atop a large enough rug. Ensure adequate rug extends past the sectional perimeter.
- For open floor plans, use a rug under the sectional to distinguish the living room seating space from adjoining areas like kitchens or dining rooms.
- Try placing just the front legs on the rug, so the rug acts as an entry point into the seating area. Allow plenty of rug to extend forward.
- Lift the sectional visually by keeping it completely off the rug and putting only a coffee table on the rug area.
- Use a rug shape that complements the sectional silhouette. Rectangles pair well with L-shaped sectionals. Rounded rugs accentuate curved sectionals.
- Layer rugs with the top rug sized to the seating area and a larger rug beneath to tie the whole space together.
- Leave a purposeful 6-12 inch rug border exposed rather than filling the entire floor to keep the room open.
- Use furniture placement like chairs or ottomans to visually anchor rugs underneath sectionals.
With the right-sized and styled rug strategically placed, your sectional sofa will take center stage in a well-designed, welcoming room. Follow these tips to choose and position rugs with confidence. Soon you’ll be enjoying a living space that’s both fashionable and functional.
Area Rug Alternatives for Sectional Sofas
Traditional rectangular area rugs are a popular choice for anchoring sectional sofas. But don’t be afraid to think outside the box when considering rug options for your sectional! Unique rug shapes, hides, and layering can create exciting alternatives to typical area rugs.
Here are creative rug ideas beyond basic rectangles to try under or near your sectional:
Round Rugs
A circular rug provides a dynamic focal point. Scatter a few round rugs in graduating sizes layered together. Or use one large round or oval rug beneath a curved sectional.
Octagonal Rugs
The eight-sided shape makes a fantastic centerpiece rug. Octagonal rugs attractively orient seating areas. Pair with a square coffee table for geometric harmony.
Cowhide Rugs
Nothing beats the luxurious look of cowhide rugs. Use extra large hides under sectionals or a cluster of smaller hides layered atop carpeting. Hair-on hides add textural interest.
Sheepskin Rugs
Fluffy sheepskin rugs lend a cozy texture as a living room accent. Use a white sheepskin for contrast against a dark sectional. Or arrange colored sheepskins as soft ottomans.
Shaped Rugs
Break out of the rectangle mold with unique rug silhouettes. Try a geometric Greek key rug or a softly flowing kidney bean shape. Shaped rugs make exciting sectional rugs.
Furry Rugs
Super plush, long-pile rugs feel fabulous underfoot in living spaces. Try classic shag or faux fur area rugs for comfy elegance with sectionals. Just vacuum regularly.
Scatter Rug Set
Use a collection of scatter rugs in lieu of one larger rug. Vary shapes, sizes, and materials for visual interest surrounding a sectional sofa.
Faux Sheepskin Set
For a chic accent, top off your rug with fake fluffy sheepskins on end chairs or ottomans. Faux-sheepskin sets add coziness and casually anchor seating.
Sisal Base with Rug Top
Get the sturdy support of natural sisal or jute with a soft decorative rug on top. Layering extends your rug’s lifespan and melds styles.
With these creative rug alternatives, you can fashion a sectional sofa setting that’s distinctly your own. Rethink the expected to make an artistic living room rug statement.
Choosing Sectional Sofa Styles to Match Your Rug
Your living room rug will likely be a focal point alongside your sectional sofa. So coordinate these two essential elements for a cohesive, pulled-together space. Select a sectional style that complements the size, color palette, and vibe of your rug. Here are tips for choosing a sectional sofa to sync with your rug:
Bold Patterned Rug
For prominent graphic print rugs, balance is key. A plain or subtly textured sectional in neutral solids allows the rug design to shine. Avoid competing prints.
Bohemian Style Rug
Rugs with global or artistic motifs beg for an eclectic sectional mix. Choose an intriguing L-shaped sectional in warm tones like chocolate or spice colors. Mix metal and wood trims for visual depth.
Traditional Persian Rug
Play up the traditional elegance of a Persian rug with a classic camelback, roll arm, or English arm-style sectional. Classic nailheads and turned feet details on the sectional enhance the traditional mood.
Modern Solid Rug
Showcase a minimalist solid shag or geometric rug with a low-profile contemporary sectional. Clean lines in grey, white, or black hues keep the look crisp. Avoid heavily textured sectionals so the rug stands out.
Natural Fiber Rug
For organic appeal, pair natural sisal, jute, or braided rugs with casual linen or cotton slip-covered sectional. Natural raw wood legs also complement the earthy textures beautifully.
Vintage Overdyed Rug
Old-world faded rugs with washed-out colors beg for sectionals with reclaimed wood and antique brass details. Industrial metal legs also complement faded vintage rug influences.
Small Space Rug
When working in a tight room, avoid oversized sectionals and rugs. Petite apartment-friendly rugs and compact sectional proportions ensure the space doesn’t feel swallowed.
Outdoor Rug
If your rug anchors an outdoor sectional, focus on all-weather sectional materials like perforated wicker, sling fabric, or teak wood. Choose fade- and mildew-resistant rugs in coordinating nature colors.
Tips for High-Traffic Sectional Sofa Fabrics
With their central location in living rooms, family rooms, and dens, sectional sofas see a lot of wear and tear. Choose your sectional’s cover fabric wisely by selecting materials engineered to withstand plenty of use without showing signs of aging. Here are the best high-traffic fabrics for sectionals:
Polyester
Affordable polyester has excellent durability and stain resistance. It can mimic silk and other luxury fabrics at a lower cost. Look for thick, short-pile polyester or spun poly blends.
Olefin
One of the most durable budget-friendly fabrics, olefin has inherent stain and moisture resistance. It’s a smart choice for families and pets. Lower pile olefins are ideal for sectionals.
Acrylic
From chenille to tweed, acrylic fabrics have versatility. Acrylic has good strength, colorfastness, and stain protection. Blends like acrylic and polyester create durable sectional covers.
Cotton
Breathable cotton naturally repels lint and pet hair. Performance cottons apply stain guard treatments for heavy use. Linen-cotton blends combine durability with a casual wrinkled texture.
Microfiber
Known for its velvety soft hand, microfiber also has fantastic durability. Thicker microfiber knits make indestructible sectionals. Poly-microfiber blends optimize strength.
Leather
Nothing wears more gracefully than top-grain leather. It develops a coveted patina over time. Protected leather resists stains, scrapes, and fading. Leather is the ultimate durable sectional splurge.
