entryway with bench and Persian oriental runner rug

Rugs For Small Rooms: Maximizing Style in Tight Quarters

As cozy as small spaces are, they can be a serious challenge to decorate. Too many style elements, and the room feels cramped. But reduce furnishings too much, and the room feels sparse. While you can’t always physically increase your space, you can use flooring to make that same room look and feel bigger and brighter. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right rugs for small rooms – and how to make your room look better.

Use Round or Oval Rugs

shoes standing on round bullseye rug

If you’re looking to make your small apartment or room look bigger, consider rug shape. Round and oval rugs are great for small spaces because they don’t define the floor space like a rectangular rug does. Instead, they soften hard edges created by walls and furniture in your home and give the illusion of more space.

Round rugs are also a quick, easy way to add character to your decor. Beautifully-patterned folk art rugs feel airy and whimsical in a small room, while classic rugs bring timeless style and warmth.

Try Lighter Colors

small room with light floral tapestry rug and bench

Want to know how to make a small room look better (and larger) in an instant? Use light-colored rugs! Similar to lighter wall colors, these types of rugs work so well for small rooms because they help to reflect light, creating the appearance of even more space. Darker tones can make smaller rooms and apartments feel more enclosed, which is the opposite of what you want! Consider colors like pale yellow, cool gray, taupe, and sand to help make your space feel more elegant and open. For example, you could add continuity and dimension with a light rug, such as a rug that looks like wood or a classic print like subtle florals.

Embrace Smaller Patterns

kitchen with wood furnishings and vintage vinyl runner rug

Though visually stunning, some patterns can visually overwhelm small spaces. Rather than shying away from patterns, it’s key to choose the right patterned rugs for small rooms. Try embracing smaller patterns in your small bedroom or kitchen, such as colonial rugs with a floral lattice pattern and tapestry-inspired classic rugs. These types of rugs are best for small spaces, as they create visual interest without feeling too busy.

Select a Large Area Rug

living space with white chair, plant, and garden pattern rug

It may sound counterintuitive, but using larger rugs for small rooms can help make spaces feel more spacious. Choosing the smallest size and placing it in the center of a room could actually highlight the small size of the space. Measure your room’s dimensions and select a rug that’ll rest within at least 6 inches of your walls.

These rugs provide a focal point for small spaces, preventing the inclination to add extra furnishings that end up cluttering your space. Choose a pattern or color palette that harmonizes with your existing decor and watch your space come alive!

Decorative Rugs for Small Rooms

taupe applique vintage vinyl rug


Make your cozy space feel bigger and brighter by choosing the right rugs for small spaces. We have elegant patterns for everyone’s style and rug sizes ranging from 20” x 30” to 120” x 175” to fit every size home at Please Write Home. Explore more stunning, certified non-slip vintage vinyl rugs today!