Adding a rug to any room can have a big impact on the look and feel of the space. One space that is often overlooked, however, is the dining room.

A room where you entertain guests and enjoy a meal with the family, your dining room can be a central space within your home, so why not dress it up with a stylish rug?

Dining room rugs can add elegance and a feeling of luxury, though to pick the right one, there are some things to consider.

Size is everything

When placing a rug under your dining table, you want to ensure you get the right size. The right size will anchor the room, creating balance.

You want your rug to frame the dining table, so it’s generally better to go a little bigger than you think you need.

You should also be able to pull the chairs out without them going over the edge of the rug and getting caught every time they get pushed in and out. As well as being annoying, this will cause damage to the rug.

Measure the dining table with the chairs pulled out to make sure there’s enough space around the outside.

If your dining room and kitchen are within the same space, using a rug can help you define the two areas. In this case, you may not want the rug to fill the whole space, but rather be just big enough to create a border around the table and chairs.

Set the right mood

A dining room is where you gather with friends and family to enjoy a meal, so you want to create a welcoming space. A rug can make your dining room feel instantly warmer and more inviting.

Choose a style that complements the overall look and mood you want to achieve. From tribal rugs to Persian rugs, to modern rugs, there are rug designs to suit any style preference and home decor.

Think carefully when choosing the colour of your dining room rug. A light coloured rug may not be the most practical option for your dining room, as it will show up stains and marks more easily. If you do prefer a lighter look, choose soft neutrals and patterns that fit with your style, though be aware you will need to clean your rug more regularly.

Darker colours and patterns will not show up spills and stains as much, so are a better choice for your dining room rug. They can provide a more dramatic look and will look stylish for years to come.

Bold colours and patterns can be a good choice for the dining room rug, especially if the room doesn’t have much furniture or decor other than the table and chairs. Don’t be afraid to have some fun and make a statement with your dining room rug. A rug can draw the eye, so consider choosing something to compliment the dining table.

Pick colours can also commonly tie together with other elements in the room, whether you have a classic or more contemporary style.

Material matters

Choosing the right material for your dining room rug will help to ensure the longevity of the rug.

A dining room rug will be sitting under heavy furniture, so you need to choose a durable material rather than anything too delicate. With chairs constantly being moved in and out on the rug, you don’t want them getting caught in the rug’s fibres, so you should also look at rugs with a low pile rather than anything too fluffy.

While you want food to remain off the ground, a dining room rug has a high chance of suffering from spills so you also need to consider the maintenance the rug material requires. Look for materials that are easy to clean, though to keep your dining room rug looking beautiful for years, you should also get it professionally cleaned at least once a year.

Unlike most other rooms in your home, a dining room may be less likely to have cosy decor that can provide warmth and comfort. A soft rug underfoot is the ultimate luxury and will make all your guests feel instantly more comfortable.

A wool rug is an ideal choice for a dining room, known for its durability, it also feels lovely and soft under your toes. A hard-wearing material, a wool rug is a perfect investment to add style and warmth to your dining room.

Dining room rugs

Dining room rugs are a great addition to any home. No matter the size or style of your dining room, a rug can provide a warm and cosy update, adding colour and style to a room that may not otherwise have much in the way of decor and soft furnishings.

Hali stocks a range of stylish designer rugs for sale, with a wide variety of designs that will work perfectly for your dining room.