Let's Learn: Right vs. Wrong Area Carpet Sizes
Don’t you just love seeing new things? We do too! That’s why when we have the opportunity to visit trades shows, new product launches or lunch and learns we jump at the chance. Not only is this great inspiration and insight into new product in the industry, but also the ability to provide our clients with the latest and greatest in the world of interior design.
We were recently introduced to a new line of area carpets that we’re really quite excited about. The patterns and colour-ways are beautiful, there is an ‘in-stock’ program AND the price point is reasonable. Yes, you read that correctly, a great price point!
if you see dollar signs when you think of purchasing an area carpet, you’re not alone. Are you daunted by choosing the best content, care and maintenance especially when durability and cleanability matter so much? We get you. You’re also not alone if you’re confused over what size works best in your space, how much of your furniture should sit on the carpet, and how to layer area carpets. With so much to learn, today’s post focuses on size and a few rules of thumb when selecting the best fit for your space.
We often find client’s existing area carpets are disproportionate to not only their space, but also based on the layout of furniture. With so many options of sizes and shapes, we're sharing the right vs. wrong approach to selecting the best size area carpet for you.
Here are four scenarios to guide you when choosing the right fit.
The Classic
The most common area carpet application is to have one carpet in the room to add interest, colour, and warmth underfoot. We do find however most will short change the sizing based on the size of the room and the furniture layout.
The size shown above is too small for the space and does not anchor the furniture together. In a living room setting, a 6x9 is often too small to offer the connection or anchor point designers look for when pulling a room together.
The size shown above connects each piece of furniture together and anchors the room. Ideal! An 8x10 or 9x12 are typically the go-to sizes in this case.
The Room Filler
If we wanted wall to wall carpet we would have approached the space differently from the start however some rooms demand larger carpets purely based on the furniture layout and size of room. A common mistake when opting for all furniture to sit on the area carpet is to go too big.
An application where we’d like to see items of furniture sit fully on the area need not fill the space entirely and cover up this much hardwood. Might as well do wall to wall carpet!
Both sofas are completely on the area carpet while the chairs sit 50/50. This is an excellent way to create a defined space in a larger, more open room. In this scenario consider sizes such as 11x14 depending on the size of the overall space.
Layering Two Carpets
The larger carpet is not living up to it’s full potential to anchor the space and provide warmth underfoot. The 8x10 carpet runs parallel with the bed, hiding most of the carpet underneath, losing it’s visual interest within the space.
In the living space, note how the area carpet extends into the hallway and circulation area which is not ideal.
In this setting the two layered area carpets connect the bed to a sitting area while offering added texture and interest. Placing the larger, 8x10, area carpet perpendicular to the length of the bed provides more visual interest. Layering it with an organically shaped area carpet adds interest and an unexpected element to the foot of the bed and sitting area.
The area carpet in the living space is smaller (in this case 6x9) and has a better connection point to the furniture and frees the hallway area with a direct path to the bedroom.
Layering Three Carpets
Becoming more popular and a trend in the Boho-chic and eclectic style of design and decor is the idea of layering three area carpets. It’s a fun way to add interest and personality to your space! Choosing three distinct sizes will provide the best jumping off point with the largest at the bottom and building from there. Have fun with it and be sure to layer with thinner area carpets such as dhurries and flat weaves.
The above three carpets are too small in scale and provide an uneven surface for the coffee table, not to mention the gap (or tripping hazard!) in the centre.
Starting with the largest size area carpet, typically 9x12 or 8x10, and layering from there provides the ideal base. Layering with sizes such as 4x6, 5x7 or 6x9 will offer an eclectic feel and cozy vibe.
An area carpet, (or carpets!) is considered art for your floor. Regardless of whether you’re embracing colour or staying neutral, don’t underestimate the value of this item in a space. It’s a valuable addition for aesthetic, warmth and interest!
