A rug helps define and anchor a living room, particularly in an open-plan space. Good Housekeeping's guidance warns that a rug chosen too small can make the furniture feel disconnected, even when its color and design are otherwise appealing.

Size the Rug to Connect the Seating Group

The article also encourages contrast rather than matching every rug, sofa, wall, and throw in both tone and texture. Measure the seating area before choosing the rug, then consider how its pattern or material connects the pieces. A compact room needs a coherent grouping more than a rug selected only to fill a gap.