When starting a college education, many students opt to live on-campus in dormitory housing. These spaces serve as a “home away from home” and are often the site of many late-night study sessions and friend hang-outs. How you choose to decorate your dorm can set the tone for your school year. As you take on challenging courses and final exams, you deserve a space that feels comfortable and suited to your personal style.
Should you get a rug for your dorm room?
Many dorms are notoriously small and worn-down, often with battered hardwood flooring or suspicious carpeting. Unsurprisingly, many students turn to area rugs to introduce a cozier atmosphere. This is a great option for college students, as rugs are highly portable and more affordable than many other common furnishings.
In a space that often only includes a couple of twin beds, a desk, and a chair, a rug also provides a place for guests to sit. These soft landing places, which can be enhanced and made even comfier by rug pads, can make your dorm a place on campus to relax and study with friends.
We know that the months leading up to college are filled with tough decisions and big changes. Picking out a rug for your new living quarters may not seem like your highest priority, but treating yourself to a quality, affordable dorm rug can offer tremendous comfort during stressful periods. While you worry about where you’d like to go and what major you’d like to pursue, we took the liberty of creating a comprehensive guide that will lead you to the perfect dorm room rug.
How big is the average dorm room?
The average dorm room at an American university or college is 12 by 19 feet. This translates to 228 square feet, much of which is taken up by provided furniture and shared with at least one roommate. There isn’t always a lot of space to work with.
Fortunately, rugs lie flat against the floor and don’t introduce a lot of bulk to your cramped quarters. This makes them a perfect way to introduce design and your unique personality, without dominating a space. Although each dorm room set-up and exact dimensions will vary, we can use this information to determine the best size rug for your dorm room.
What size rug is best for a dorm room?
Depending on your roommate situation and personal vision, there are three primary rug sizes that can be incorporated into your space.
Using 8×10 Foot Rugs in Your College Room
8 x 10 feet is a very common size for area rugs. In a home, these pieces are perfect for living room spaces. In a dorm room, they easily fill the heart of the space and can even provide a resting place for some of the legs of your furniture. Although not quite a full carpet, these larger rugs can provide a soft place to sit, lounge, or rest your feet.
Occupying 80 square feet, this is a rug you’d likely want to collaborate with your roommate on. In our experience, no one objects to a bit of cozy style. Still, it’s best to check with your roommate before dominating over a third of available floor space. You’ll also want to take a close look at your dorm’s floor plan and ensure that you will have the proper space to enjoy your new rug.
Making Runner Rugs Fit Your Room and Your Style
Runners are a smaller option, commonly used in home hallways or kitchens. In a dorm room, these affordable pieces can cover an entryway, fill a closet, or line the edge of your bed. If you and your roommate are both interested in expressing your unique styles, these slimmer pieces allow you to carpet your side of the room, without impeding on their space.
Opting for Small, 2×3 Area Rugs for Big Impact
As the smallest area rug option (around 2 x 3 feet), these are perfectly suited to compact dorm spaces. You can even pick out multiple styles, and easily store the pieces under your dresser or bed. These cozy pieces can be pulled out when you are hosting guests, offering individual places to sit. They can also be left out year-round, providing a one-of-a-kind floor covering that is easy to rearrange and clean.
How to Decorate a Dorm Room Using Rugs
Moving away from home can be scary. A great way to prepare for this new phase in your life is picturing where you are moving to. Having a clear image of your living space can help ease nerves and mentally prepare you for a new chapter. A large rug can set the tone for a space so, once you pick out your rug, you can begin imagining your full decorating scheme.
Fortunately, there are endless styles and options. No matter your personal style or dorm room dreams, a high-quality rug can enhance and elevate the space. Here are some of our top picks that are perfectly suited to dorm room needs.
Solid and Striped Rugs for Shared Spaces
You and your roommate may not always agree—and that includes things like design! If you’re worried about a “loud” rug limiting your options for other decorating, opt for a solid or striped piece. These classic designs serve as a “neutral” in your space, and allow other design elements to shine.
Bohemian Rugs for Dorm Rooms
Are you still worried about clashing? Maybe it’s time to go Bohemian. This style is based on the idea that mixed cultures, textures, patterns, and hues can bring ultimate vibrancy to a space. One of these unique designs can juxtapose your existing pieces and create intrigue within an otherwise bland dorm space.
Contemporary Area Rugs
Contemporary area rugs are classy pieces that incorporate fun patterns and designs. Whether the pattern is whimsical or subtle, contemporary rugs serve as a solid foundation and more refined look.
Washable Area Rugs and Runners
Finally, washable rugs are a great option for dorms. Your limited space means that you’ll be eating, brushing your hair or painting your nails all in the same room. If you’re worried about finding the time to deep clean your rug while getting your degree, these pieces can offer a reprieve. Just toss them into the laundry, dry, and continue to enjoy.
College is an exciting time, and Rugs USA is here for you as you prepare to make your new space yours. Browse our full collection before move-in day.
