Rugs & Runners

A good living room rug pulls the seating together, softens footsteps and adds warmth underfoot through the colder months. Runners earn their place too, along a walkway behind the sofa or in a long, narrow through-lounge.Size is where most people go wrong. As a rough guide, at least the front legs of the sofa and chairs should sit on the rug, which usually means around 160 x 230cm for a modest room and 200 x 275cm or more for an open-plan space. Low-profile vintage and boho designs are easy to vacuum and let doors swing over them, while thick shaggy pile feels lovely under bare feet but needs more care. With pets or small children about, a washable rug or one with a non-slip backing is worth the extra thought.For layout tips, see our small living room ideas, or browse the rest of our living room soft furnishings.