
A hallway runner rug has the power to transform your space. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to a narrow area or cushion to a hard floor, hallway runners are both stylish and functional.
The key to picking a hallway runner is to be purposeful and strategic in choosing the right size and design to suit your space. Keep in mind your home’s overall decor scheme, as the hallway is what ties multiple rooms together. You’ll also want to select the correct size so the runner doesn’t look too big or small in your space.
Read on to find out how to choose a hallway runner based on size and style, plus get inspiration on how to incorporate it into your home.
How to Choose a Hallway Runner

Photo by: @kelsikendel
Hallway Runner Size
A 2.5′ x 7′ runner is one of the most common runner sizes, ideal for most average-sized hallways.
If you’ve got an extra-long hallway or are looking to create a defined “hallway” area in an open floor plan home, a 2.5′ x 10′ runner might be the best fit for you.
Then, there’s the option of implementing multiple hallway runners within your space. If you have a particularly long hallway, it might make the most sense to place two rugs in a row to meet your home’s unique dimensions. This option gives you the ability to play around with style and color if you choose, opting for two different complementing hallway runner designs placed in a row for added character.
No matter which size of hallway runner you choose, make sure there is adequate room to leave a small cushion of flooring around the rug.
Hallway Runner Style
When choosing the style of your hallway runner, take note of the rooms off the hallway and what decor scheme they have. If you can easily see into the other spaces, select a rug color and pattern that will complement those rooms as well as your hallway to add a sense of cohesiveness to your home. You might even want to keep in mind the type of flooring you have in your hallway and play off its style, as well.
Another factor to keep in mind when selecting your hallway runner is washability. Hallways are high-traffic areas and the rug you place there is likely to get a lot of use. Luckily, all of Ruggable’s rugs are water-resistant, stain-resistant, and machine washable, so no matter what color of runner you choose, you can always keep it looking fresh and clean.
How to Style a Hallway Runner Rug
In theory, styling a hallway runner rug is easy: simply place it wherever could use a little oomph and personality. But in reality, design buffs know all too well that where you position the rug matters — and contributes significantly to the overall aesthetic.
For examples of what we mean, keep scrolling for five hallway runner ideas to inspire your next interiors project.
1. Add cushion to a hard floor
Amp up the cozy factor in your tiled or hardwood-floored home by investing in a plush runner like the diamond patterned one seen here. Notice how its white coloring lightens up the room and how the black details match the dining room chairs and window trim. If your hallway has the space, up the style by adding a narrow table or bench that allows you to display a few decorative items.
2. Define an open floor plan

Photo by: @greeneacresfarmhouse
Styling a hallway runner rug may feel tricky if you don’t technically have a clearly established hallway. But let the placement of this rug in an open modern farmhouse floor plan guide you. Simply lay it where one transitions from room to room to help define your home’s layout. If you have other rugs in the same room, consider choosing a hallway runner that is similar in style and color so they go together seamlessly, as evidenced by the two green Persian rugs seen here.
3. Balance out a bold decor scheme

Without the geometric Jonathan Adler x Ruggable hallway runner seen here, this bold-colored room wouldn’t look as complete or well-balanced. We love how it complements the wall art while making the whole space feel livelier and more cohesive. If your hallway is equally as eye-catching, opt for a hallway runner that can hold its own.
4. Provide direction on a large landing

Photo by: @thelesliestyle
Everything about this upstairs landing epitomizes elegance, from the wallpaper and light wooden railing down to the floor’s marble tiling. The soft neutral tones of the diamond hallway runner look like it was made to complete this precious space. Likewise, its positioning feels natural and unforced as it draws the eye into the next room.
5. Give style to a narrow space

Photo by: @banyanbridges
Who says a narrow hallway can’t be compelling and rich with style? This homeowner’s space is proof that you can transform yours from boring to fabulous without breaking your budget. To give this small hall personality, the muralist pained a half-moon rainbow design on the wall, which is unexpectedly paired with a mid-century modern runner for a statement-making look.
21 Comments
Is it possible to find out the make and pattern of the beautiful wallpaper in the landing photo #4. It also features the hallway diamond runner. They just look beautiful together.
Hi, Margaret! Unfortunately, we don’t have information on the other décor or furniture shown! Many of our photos and videos are shared with us from our customers.
We do try to tag our customers who share these photos, however, so feel free to checkout the Instagram handle mentioned below the photo(s) to see about more info on other items shown.😊
Your rugs are very beautiful!! The rugs in the hallways look so good! I live with my son an his wife, who happens to be very good at decorating! Their house is beautiful!
Why thank you, Audrey! We are glad you like our rugs.🥰 If they don’t have one already, it sounds like one of our rugs would be the perfect fit in your son and wife’s home! We hope to have you all join the Ruggable family in the future.💕
I have a 24-in long hallway/entry way. What do you suggest? Two 10 foot rugs?
I’m interested in a kitchen rug.
If you could provide a runner 2 by 7 or 8 or 9 please contact me
Hi, Andre! We currently offer two runner sizes: 2.5’x7′ and 2.5’x10′. You can checkout our runners here as well: https://myruggable.com/runners
Feel free to reach out to our Customer Care team at support@ruggable.com for any questions!
I have two 7 ‘ runners in my kitchen with thick mats. They’re beautiful, but what can I do to keep them from “walking” an inch or two over the course of a busy day. I have to readjust them twice a day. This is the whole runner, not the top or the mat separately.
Hi, Karen! In regards to the issue with your runners moving, we recommend double checking and ensuring proper assembly as that can often lead to issues with the grip if not done correctly. Please feel free to use the following link for our assembly instructions:
https://myruggable.com/small-assemble
If the issue persists please feel free to reach out to our Customer Care team at support@ruggable.com! Our team would be happy to take a closer look into the matter and see what other remedies they can offer as well as help with any other questions you may have.
Do you offer any small rugs like door mats. What is your smallest rug. It seems they’d be perfect for entry door areas
Thank you for your interest, Patti! Our smallest size is 2’x3′ and we do also offer Doormats.😊
My apartment has a 3′ X 14′ hallway from the LR to the BR. Advice?
Do you have runners that are good for the bathroom. Looking for one to go in front of the vanity.
That’s a great question, Angie! Yes, our rugs can be used in bathrooms. We have received positive feedback from customers who have used our rugs in their bathrooms with no issues!
However, we recommend placing your rug in areas where excessive water is not present. Our rug systems are water resistant, but not water absorbent.😊
I have carpet in my hallway can I put a runner on top of carpet?
Great question, Katie! We typically do not recommend using a Ruggable Rug System over the carpet. Our rugs are specifically designed to be used in conjunction with our non-slip rug pad that grips on hard surfaces. Placing Ruggable Rug Systems directly over the carpet may cause a tripping hazard and also carpeting reduces the effectiveness of its grip.
Customers who have placed their Rug System on carpeted floors have seen the best results when the rug is anchored with a sofa or heavy table and away from heavy traffic areas. We hope this information and insights is helpful!
Do you have a round rug that could be used in a coastal home. All furniture bordering is light so I need something with color and design
Hi there, Kathy! You can check out our Coastal Rugs here which may be a good fit for your home: https://myruggable.com/coastal-rugs 🌊
Are these rugs compatible with hardwood floor without damaging them?
Hi there, Carol! Our 2-piece rug system is safe for hard surface, including hardwood and vinyl flooring. Our TPR backed rug pad has passed all flooring tests and does not leave stains!
However, we always recommend double checking with your flooring manufacturer to be extra cautious or if you have any specific concerns. Additionally, you may want to check out our customer reviews regarding using our rug system on various types of flooring, if interested.😊