While there aren't hard and fast "rules" for using runners throughout your home, there are guidelines to consider so they look and function properly.  

First, a bit about runners. Runners are the unsung heroes of rugs. The long, narrow version of a traditional area rug, a runner may not anchor furniture or create a focal point in a space, but it is the perfect addition that ties an intentional space together and makes an area more comfortable and functional. 

Here are some guidelines for using runners throughout your home. 

In a Narrow Entryway 

In a narrow entryway, a runner is a perfect way to ensure a warm welcome and great first impression. That being said, it shouldn't overwhelm the space. Select a runner width that allows at least six inches of floor to be visible on either side. 

For a smaller entryway, the runner length should be six or eight feet and the runner shouldn't block the doorway of any rooms. Also, be sure the runner is placed so that your door can open smoothly. 

In a Hallway

A runner adds warmth underfoot and visual interest to any hallways in your home. Like a runner used in a narrow entryway, a hallway runner should allow four to six inches of bare flooring on either side. 

The runner should be placed in the center of the hall, and should be slightly shorter than the hallway. 

In a longer hallway, you can use multiple runners, so the overall effect is the same - at least six inches of flooring exposed on either side and five to seven inches at either end. Leave a few inches between the runners as well. 

In the Kitchen

A runner in a kitchen not only elevates the space, but can also provide underfoot comfort in areas where you stand to wash dishes, load the dishwasher or prepare food. 

Whether in front of a sink area, stove, or between an island and cabinets, make sure the runner is proportional to the space and that there's a six to twelve inch border of bare floor on other side. 

A runner is especially effective in a galley kitchen, providing softness underfoot throughout and minimizing the area's narrowness visually. To achieve this, again, make sure there are several inches of bare floor on either side of the runner and that it is slightly shorter than the length of the kitchen.

In the Bedroom

A runner placed on either side of a bed provides a warm and comfortable surface underfoot as you crawl into bed and a nice place to land as you get out of bed. A single runner placed between two twin beds achieves the same effect. 

A runner used beside a bed should be at least three quarters of the length of the bed. Allow six to ten inches of bare floor all around the runner but make sure it's close enough to the side of the bed to be able to step directly onto it when getting up. 

If there are nightstands, the runner should be placed under at least the front legs. 

A runner may also be used at the foot of the bed. A runner used this way should be as long as or slightly longer than the width of the bed. 

In the Living Room

For a living room that has multiple entry points or in an open concept space, a runner may be used to visually create a pathway into the living room. 

A runner can also be placed in front of a sofa. The runner should extend beyond the sofa a few inches on either side, and, unlike in other area rug placements, the sofa's legs should not be placed on it. This can be done in a living room or seating area that doesn't feature or a large area rug to anchor it, or a runner can be layered on top of another area rug. 

In a Laundry Room

Much like in a kitchen, a runner can be used in a laundry room with side-by-side washer and drawer to elevate the space and to provide underfoot comfort. Like runners in any space in your home, allow several inches of bare floor all around it to keep it visually balanced. 

All Natural Rug Co. runners are handmade from natural fibers. When choosing one for your home, consider the fiber that makes most sense considering durability and cleanability, and be sure to use a non-slip pad underneath if needed. 

Consider a runner to complete your space >