Just as the entryways or foyers differ in size, so do the homeowners’ preferences. The question now is, how big should a foyer rug be generally? We’ve made thorough research and sought the opinion of experts on this, and here’s what they recommend.
The size of a foyer rug will depend on the size of the foyer. You’ll find foyer rugs ranging from 3′ by 5′ to 9′ by 12′. To create wonderful visual balance in your foyer, the rug should be placed at least 18″ to 24″ from the walls around it. This rule of thumb might not apply to smaller rooms.
Different shapes of foyer or entryway rugs play different roles. Continue reading to figure out what the experts mean as well as the factors to consider when choosing a foyer rug.
The Size Of A Foyer Rug
The size of a foyer rug is determined by the size of the foyer or entryway. The standard rule of thumb will apply to large enough foyers. The foyer rug must have an allowance of 18″ to 24″ around it.
The standard sizes of foyer rugs include: 3′ by 5′, 5′ by 8′, 8′ by 10′, and 9′ by 12′.
Allowing enough floor space around your foyer rug will create a visible ribbon of flooring around the rug. Thus the foyer is taken care of while simultaneously displaying the flooring.
The foyer is an area that has high traffic, and the flooring around this area will wear out faster. The rugs in the foyer are to protect and decorate the flooring.
Foyer Rug Shapes
There are several popular shapes of foyer rugs. The shape and size of a foyer rug depend on how big the foyer or entryway is. Designers recommend taking into consideration how your entryway or foyer looks.
You may use different shapes of foyer rugs to accentuate the area. Here are the most popular and suitable shapes of foyer rugs:
Round Rugs
Round foyers rugs are suitable for arched doorways. They can ideally fit in double-entry stairways.
Double entry and arched foyers tend to be wider. Therefore, a round foyer rug will complement the arches and grand entrances.
Have a look at this exquisite round foyer rug on Amazon.
Rectangular Rugs
Rectangular-shaped foyer rugs are the oldest and by far the most popular foyer rug shape. Having been made popular by Persian tapestry-style rugs, they fit most standard-shaped entryways. Rectangular foyer rugs are quintessential. They can be used to merge the foyer decor with the rest of the home.
Check out this handmade foyer rug on Amazon.
Oval Rugs
An oval foyer rug works for any spacious foyer. They fit well in small foyers, too. Their curvaceous yet elongated form makes them popular foyer rugs. Most oval foyer rugs have a country-style vibe and come in monotones or multicolors.
Look at this country chic foyer rug on Amazon.
Square Rugs
Although not a very popular shape of a foyer rug, a square foyer rug can fit in a large foyer. Make sure that the square foyer rug looks intentional by opting for bold colors. Choose a bold color that will complement the interior decor.
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Irregular Shaped Rugs
Foyer rugs don’t have to be the traditional shapes and sizes that they always come in. Foyer rugs can be custom-made into odd shapes and sizes for a contemporary look and feel. Ensure that the foyer rug doesn’t feel overwhelming or out of place.
Check out this unique foyer rug on Amazon.
Note: Whenever you place a foyer rug, ensure that you use anti-slip pads to keep the rug in place. However, if you have a wide foyer, you can place a piece of furniture on the rug. A table, side stand, or bench will prevent the rug from moving around.
Why You Need A Foyer Rug
The entryway of any home needs a rug for several reasons. Therefore, before you go shopping for a foyer rug, you should know its purpose. Here are some of the most common reasons why homeowners buy foyer rugs:
- Cold Floors: If the floors in your home are always cold, rugs everywhere even in the foyer are a must.
- Trap Wetness & Dirt: During the rainy and snowy months, wet muddy shoes are unavoidable. Avoid getting water and dirt to other parts of the house by using a foyer rug.
- Protect Flooring: The foyer, entryway, or hallway area has the highest traffic as people come and go. If you have installed expensive flooring, you would like it to serve you for a long time to come. A foyer rug will help you save the flooring for a while.
- Aesthetics: There are pretty floor rugs that will help compliment your interior. You can choose traditional or contemporary-looking foyer rugs. There are foyer rugs available in a variety of designs.
Best Materials For A Rug
Suitable foyer rugs must be functional. Pick the right material for your foyer or entryway rug and make a lasting first impression.
The best materials for foyer rugs are the following:
Natural Fibers
Natural handwoven fibers are the best for foyer rugs.
Foyers and entryways are high-traffic areas that need durable rugs. Natural fibers are decorative and handle wear and tear well enough.
Depending on the availability of the natural fibers, you’ll find foyer rugs in sisal, jute bamboo stat, seagrass, wool, and hemp. These natural fibers and materials can handle the goings and comings of the home dwellers and visitors very well.
Synthetic Fibers
Manufacturers also make synthetic and eco-friendly foyer rugs due to the high demand for these rug types. Synthetic foyer rugs can handle high traffic. They are highly absorbent too!
Homeowners find synthetic foyer rugs suitable because they are easier to clean compared to natural fiber rugs. Manufacturers and designers find synthetic fibers malleable in creating different odd shapes and designs.
How Wide Should A Foyer Be?
Foyers and entryways need rugs that suit to avoid a mismatched look. The size and shape of the foyer will determine which rug will be suitable.
Foyers act as reception areas and have a minimum width of 42 inches. There are wider foyers of 48 to 54 inches. The best foyers are those measuring 60 to 72 inches wide.
Foyers can accommodate closets and act as transitional spaces in the living room area. Hence, foyer rugs should fit the foyer perfectly.
How To Place A Foyer Rug
You should measure the foyer to get the exact size of the floor rug that will be suitable. Designers advise homeowners to choose a smaller rug than their foyer. Keep the size of the rug proportional to the foyer or entryway.
Ideally, place a foyer rug a couple of feet right into the entrance of your home. A vertically placed rug visually extends the length of the foyer.
You can use a doormat at the door and a foyer rug in wide foyers. The doormat will serve as a cleaning mat on the outside of the house. On the inside, the foyer rug will take on a decorative role.
Watch this video for some tips on how to place a foyer rug:
Foyer Rugs Vs. Runners
The difference between a foyer rug and a runner is that a runner is longer than it is wide, whilst a rug has more or less the same measurements all around.
Runners appear longer and thinner and are suitable for corridors and small narrower spaces. They are also commonly used around beds, sofas, bathrooms, and kitchen areas. Runners that are not meant for running on are often lighter and made from natural fibers.
Final Thoughts
Design experts don’t recommend having an oversized foyer rug. A foyer rug that leaves some of the flooring visible is a perfect fit.
Whether you settle for natural or synthetic fibers, your foyer rug should be both practical and decorative. Foyer rugs come in traditional colors and bold contemporary designs.
For more creative ideas, look into these design posts: