Should you place a rug under a coffee table?

AREA rugs bring contrasting texture or colour to a living room floor. But should you place a rug below a coffee table as part of your design? What are the rules interior designers follow about placing a rug under a coffee table as part of the choices made for the living room? Here, we have some insights and style guidelines to follow.

Placing a rug under a coffee table

Living room flooring can easily be complemented by the addition of a living room rug, adding both interest and comfort to the space. But what is the verdict from interior design professionals about placing the rug under the coffee table?

In many circumstances, it can be a good idea, but it pays to be aware of some details. Adding a rug under your coffee table can be a game changer in terms of aesthetics and comfort in your living room. However, it is important to consider the circumstances, size, placement and rug fibres to make sure it is the right choice for your space.

Aesthetic benefits

A rug under a coffee table can be a vital element of a living room. While, traditionally, rugs were considered merely an aesthetic choice, in modern design, they act as strategic design anchors. Positioned under a coffee table, they can unify the elements around it, offering a seamless flow to the eye.

Quiet and comfort

A rug below a coffee table can also make the room a quieter place. Rugs can help dampen noise in a room by absorbing sound, which is particularly useful in open-concept living areas.

It is a cosy addition to the room as well. Rugs provide warmth and comfort under foot, making your seating area feel more inviting and comfortable for lounging or entertaining guests.

Size matters

The dimensions of the rug count, interior designers agree. However, when selecting a size that will look stylish and prove practical, it is not just the area immediately below the coffee table that you should focus on.

The rug should be large enough to accommodate the coffee table and the surrounding seating area. Ideally, it should extend at least 18 inches beyond the coffee table’s edges.

A rug under a coffee table should zone the room. Let the rug’s shape and size be dictated by the conversation area it envelops rather than just the coffee table’s dimensions.

Rule of thumb is all feet of furniture should be on the rug or off. However, I find it is best to have all feet on the rug if possible (fewer trip hazards, makes the room feel larger and more cohesive).

Focus on fibres

As mentioned above, a rug is a tactile element of a living room. By placing one under the coffee table, you provide an instant touch point for bare feet, elevating the comfort quotient of your living space. However, in spaces prone to heavy traffic or where kids frequently play, such a rug might become an obstacle or quickly get worn out.

Choose durability over aesthetics in such cases. We recommend wool in a living room: it is comfortable, stays good-looking for longer and naturally resists staining.

Wool needs care, but is worth it. Other natural fibres can make good choices, though. Consider rugs made of jute, sisal or seagrass for a textured and earthy appeal.

There are both practical and aesthetic advantages to putting a rug under a coffee table, but it is not invariably the right choice to make.

In smaller living rooms, a large rug may overwhelm the space. In such cases, consider a smaller rug or none at all. — homesandgardens