We believe home design should be stylish and distinctive. A great space starts with a thoughtful foundation, and from your entryway to a galley kitchen, runners are often the perfect choice for bringing warmth and definition to narrow spaces. At Lulu and Georgia, our thoughtfully curated collection of vintage and modern runner rugs lets you underpin your style with the perfect touch, no matter the space.
Not sure where to start when shopping runner rugs? Don't worry; we have got you covered. Check out the tips below for ideas and inspiration as you choose the best piece to buy for your space.
What Makes a Rug a Runner?
A runner rug is defined by its long, narrow (typically rectangular) shape—designed to add softness, style, and a sense of flow to transitional spaces like hallways, entryways, and kitchens where standard area rugs will not quite fit. It’s important to note that the size and not anything else about the durability or construction makes it a runner. As with any other rug, there are many different constructions and materials to consider when shopping for your space—just because a piece is long and narrow does not mean it would make the perfect hallway runner rug.
From the durability of a hand-knotted wool runner to the warmth and texture of a jute runner rug like our exclusive Havenhurst Rug by Jake Arnold, there are endless possibilities tailored to suit every space in your home. You always want to match the construction and materials to the traffic and usage of the space. Roll over to our rug guide for more tips and details.
A Quick Guide to Runner Rugs by Size
In some cases, you may be looking for something quite specific when it comes to size. Think a grand hallway where a long runner rug is needed to fill the space, or a small galley kitchen where every inch counts. At Lulu and Georgia, runner rugs are easy to shop by size with the help of our handy filters. Below are some of the more common runner sizes you will come across and where you might picture them in your home.
2' x 6' — Ideal for short hallways, small kitchens, or alongside a twin bed.
2’ 6” x 7' — A versatile mid-length option for entryways and galley kitchens.
2’ 6” x 8' — Great for longer hallways or behind a sofa.
2’ 6” x 10’ and Extra Long Runner Rugs — Best for extended corridors or extra-long spaces.
Remember, these dimensions are just a rough guide. It's always best to measure your space before purchasing—or even map it out with painter's tape to see how the rug will sit. Aim to leave about 3" to 6" of visible floor space around each side of the runner. Since runners are smaller in scale than area rugs, they can sit a bit tighter without overwhelming the space.
Room by Room: How to Place a Runner Rug In Your Space
From hallways to bedsides, every space has its own rhythm, and the right runner can help bring it into focus. Whether layering in natural texture or adding a soft tread underfoot, here are a few tips for styling runners around your home.
Entryway and Hallway Runner Rugs
These high-traffic areas set the tone for your home, making them the perfect place to ground your design with a runner. A well-chosen piece can add softness underfoot, guide the eye, and elevate the simplest passages with texture and warmth. Jute runners are great here because of their natural texture and strong tread. For extra durability, we love a hand-knotted wool runner rug like this Kate Rug for a foundation that is both timeless and lasting.
Bedroom Runner Rugs
A plush bedroom runner rug adds a soft touch to your first and last steps of the day. Placed on either side of the bed, runners bring warmth, texture, and a sense of balance to your space, perfect for tying the room together with a quiet impact. You can also use a single long runner rug at the foot of your bed to highlight and anchor it as the focal point of the room.
Kitchen Runner Rugs
A kitchen runner brings comfort and style to one of the most functional spaces in your home. Whether placed in front of the sink or stretched down a galley layout, a thoughtfully chosen runner softens the space and helps define its flow. A performance runner rug like our Croze Rug can offer extra protection for spills, stains, and wear.
Outdoor Runner Rugs
Performance runner rugs are also a smart way to bring style and structure to open-air spaces. Perfect for porches, patios, and balconies, they help define walkways or seating areas while offering durability against the elements. Designer styles like our Thatcher Rug by Sarah Sherman Samuel let you set a chic foundation without sacrificing durability or performance.
Lulu and Georgia Runner Rugs
However you style it, a runner allows you the flexibility to showcase the nuances of your design aesthetic, protecting your floors while creating a warm, inviting space. Loved ones and visitors can immediately get a sense of who you are by seeing how you have utilized this foundational layer of decor to build on your home's look.
When you shop for runner rugs at Lulu and Georgia, you'll find pieces that fit your space and complement the style of your home. You can choose from our wide selection to find the perfect purchase, no matter what you're looking for. For more help finding bespoke solutions in styling your space, don’t forget to check out our design services.
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