Choosing an area rug can be one of the most overwhelming things when it comes to decorating your space. Two important aspects to take into consideration are area rug size and placement. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Smaller sizes:

• Standard sizes for rugs that are used to highlight something such as a sofa, bed or fireplace are: 2′ x 3′ , 3′ x 5′,  and 4′ x 6′
• These can also be used as a focal point by itself, or with a piece of furniture placed on part of the rug.
• They can also be used in bathrooms, powered rooms, kitchens as well as an entry or hallway.

2.  Larger sizes:

• Common sizes for larger area rugs are: 6′ x 9′, 8′ x 10′, 9′ x 12′ and 12′ x 15′.
• These rugs are most often used in living areas or dining rooms.

3.  Make sure it fits:

• You need to make sure the rug you want to get fits where you want to place
  it. This can be accomplished with a tape measure.
• Or, if you’re more visual, map out the area by placing scotch or painters tape on ground where you’d like the border to be.
• This way you can see what it’d look like and you can also place your furniture in/on it to make sure you’re pleased with the size.

4.  Rug Placement:

• Make sure there is at least 18″-2′ of space between the border of the rug and the wall. The distance from the wall to each side and end should be the same.
• Take into consideration things like floor vents, doors and electrical outlets.
• Also it is a good rule of thumb to not place the corner of a rug in the middle of a doorway or an opening to another room. This could be a tripping hazard. It’s fine to use rugs in high traffic areas as long as its a bigger part of the rug.

More Resources:

http://bit.ly/cqxb9o

http://www.hgtv.com/home-improvement/rug-size-and-placement/index.html