The first picture is the way the rug should go. If that's the size of rug you want I wouldn't be a slave to rules. A little larger might be nice but it's often really difficult to find area rugs that aren't either too small or too large for your space.

Everything in your photos is beautiful and goes well with everything else, but I hope that somewhere along the line you'll pick accessories from the warm end of the color spectrum. A space with only cool colors can look lifeless and uninviting, but there are many ways you can warm this up with lamps, art, pillows, etc.

It works. When I was checking on area rug sizes the rule of thumb I read was that at least the 2 front legs should be on the rug. That is how mine is and it is a 10 by 13 ft rug. It is in a large great room. Yours good be a bit larger maybe, but it Looks good.

I dont know if you are asking about size only or color as well, but will offer my comments on both. I like the orientation of the rug in the first photo, I think the size is fine. In regards to color, I think the rug is too similar to your floor color, I would look for a deeper shade.

It would be nice if the front legs of the sofa could also rest on the rug, but I think you can get away with the first photo.

Try the chairs angled in front of the window with the round table between them. Place the sofa on the rug opposite them, on the 7' side of the rug. Get a bookshelf or other tall wood furniture piece or a table with mirror or painting for the wall where the sofa is now.

Thanks all. Even though I really liked this rug it's just not working. Too small and the colors are too light. My Weimaraner thought it was great!

I will have to bite the bullet and purchase an 8 by 10. I guess this was too good to be true. Was hoping to surprise my out of town hubby who is tired of seeing a bare floor!

Thanks Ingrid for the decorating hints. I am on the hunt for lamps and art work now. Living in SW Florida there is an over abundance of beach themes so I am still looking.

I'm so glad you decided that because it was what I was going to say (but I didn't want to be negative). Size and color (think about a print!)

I actually like the color of the rug. I'd rather add color with art and accessories.

I'll bet your Weimaraner looked gorgeous on that rug and with all the other colors there. I do think an 8 x 10 rug will look great there. I'd be tempted to get something colorful and with a pattern, but your taste may be very different.

A larger, blue/white/taupe rug would be just the ticket!

I think something bigger and with a little pattern would work better. Good luck with your artwork shopping. I'm in the midst of looking myself and I want pieces that I will love, but at the same time I want a little coordination so it doesn't turn into a mishmash. Easier said then done.