Let's talk about something that seems simple but can trip up even the savviest home decorators – finding that perfect runner length. You know that awkward feeling when a runner is just a bit too short, making your hallway feel stumpy? Or when it's so long it looks like it's trying to escape under the door? Let's make sure that never happens to you.
First, Let's Get Real About Measurement
Reach for that tape measure, but before you do, there’s more to it than just measuring. Your hallway is not just a series of lengths and widths; it has character. Some are the magnificent entrance halls, while others are the simple corridors that connect you to your favorite rooms. Every one of them is important, but so is the ambiance that you wish to develop.
The Golden Rule of Runner Length
Here's what we've learned after years of helping clients at Berber Handicraft: your Berber rug runner should feel like it belongs. Too short, and it looks like an afterthought. Too long, and it overwhelms. We recommend leaving about 6 inches of floor showing at each end of your hallway. This creates what designers call 'breathing room' – it's just right for making your space flow.
When Your Hallway Has Personality
Got doors along the way? Curves? Maybe a weird corner? This is where it gets fun. Think of your Moroccan rug runner as a path guiding people through your home. You want it to feel natural, like it's saying "This way to more beautiful spaces." Sometimes that means a custom length that takes those quirks into account.
The Secret Most People Miss
Here’s something we tell all our clients: Learn to measure your space once and get it wrong. It’s not just for accuracy, of course, it's important, but each time you do it, you learn something new. Maybe there is a doorway that swings in a certain manner or there is an area where people stop. These are very important when it comes to determining the length of your rug runner.
A Word About Width
Length isn't everything (despite what the title suggests). Your runner's width needs to play nice with your hallway too. Our rule of thumb? Leave 4-6 inches of floor visible on either side. This makes your hallway feel bigger and creates that high-end, intentional look.
Real Talk About Living With Your Rug Runner
Think about how you actually use your space. Do you wheel suitcases through? Do the kids race their toys down the hall? Your runner length should work with your real life, not just look pretty in photos. That might mean going a bit shorter to avoid trip hazards at doorways, or longer to protect more of your floor.
The Berber Handicraft Approach
This is why we love doing custom lengths. Every home is unique, and sometimes the perfect size isn't a standard measurement. We'd rather take the time to get it exactly right than have you settle for almost perfect.
Making the Final Decision
Still unsure? Here's what we tell our clients:
- Measure your space
- Live with those measurements marked out in painter's tape for a day
- Watch how people move through the space
- Then let's talk about creating your perfect runner
Remember, your runner isn't just a rug – it's the thread that ties your home together. Take the time to get the length right, and every step down your hallway will feel like walking through your private gallery.
Need help figuring out the perfect length for your space? Let's chat. We love helping people get those details just right. And if you're looking for deco inspiration, check out this article!
