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Designer Tips For A Stunning Living Room Arrangement

skriegermartin10

I've posted multiple snippets on Instagram about how to arrange and decorate a living room. Here are a few refreshers :

I've talked about the Dos and Don'ts to hanging wall art, different styles, layout options, etc.

I definitely encourage you to check these individual posts out (and future posts after this blog article comes out), but even if you

don't, the next couple livingroom articles will (hopefully) cover every one of these subjects and more.


In this article, I would like to cover living room arrangements, and then, in another post, I'll talk about the details in style and decoration. Keep in mind that I will be talking about my style through this, however, there are many other styles to be thinking about!


Let's get started...


Living Room Basics


There are a few important things to remember when arranging living room furniture:


1. Establish the focal point - In some rooms, the focal point will be an existing feature such as a fireplace or window, and in some, it will be something you bring into the room such as a television. Once you've established this, arrange furniture around it.


2. Create a conversational area - Use the furniture to create conversation areas. People should be able to comfortably talk to each other. There's nothing worse than having to turn your neck to speak to someone.


3. It's all about flow - Make sure to leave enough room for people to walk around furniture so they can easily get from one side of the room to another.


4. Your furniture does not need to touch your walls - Having all the furniture backs touching the walls is one of the biggest mistakes people make in the living room. Placing the pieces closer together will create a more intimate setting. As long as the backs of the pieces are finished, there's no reason not to show them off. You can always add a console if you feel like the back of the couch feels "naked."

Here you'll find two floor plans I drew up for a client. You'll notice that the fireplace is a focal point in option 1 and the television is the focal point number 2.

I added a console table behind the couch to use as a place to add decoration or lighting.


In this case, the client felt that the television should be their focal point because they tend to watch TV often as a family.

Finally, I added extra seating with an armchair in the corner for conversation.


In this case, the client chose option 2. (there were 5 options total)


Furniture Sizes and Placement


When it comes to living room furniture, size matters.


1. Sofa and Chairs - Your sofa and chairs are going to be some of the more expensive pieces in the space. In order to ensure that it fits your space correctly, it is important to measure the space before buying any of these pieces. You don't want them to be too big or too small, so it's best if you draw up a floor plan ahead of time--or call me to do it 😜Try to draw out 2-3 options with the furniture arranged in different ways to see what works best visually and in terms of leaving space to accommodate traffic flow.


2. Rug - I personally think area rugs are so so important. Using area rugs is a great way to define seating areas. Unfortunately, the number one mistake people make in the living room is using an area rug that's too small. Furniture should be able to comfortably sit on the carpet but of course, if you have a small apartment (like I do in Paris), the space may look too confined if the rug is too big. In this case, make sure that at least the front legs of any large upholstered pieces are on the rug.


3. Coffee Table - Coffee tables are practical pieces that are often found in the center of conversation areas. I think it's important to have a coffee table (if the space allows it) even if it's a small one. If you choose to use, one remember that the height should be slightly lower than the seat height of the sofa and chairs around it. People sitting around them should be able to lean over to put down or pick up a drink without having to get up from their seat. At the same time be sure to leave enough leg room between seats and tables: 14 to 18 inches should do the trick. (35-40 cm)



4. Side Tables - Side tables are super important as well but tend to be an afterthought. I always try to place at least one somewhere. Try to have one on either side of the sofa, and between pairs of chairs. you can place extra lighting and decor on them as well as use them for a glass of water! The tables should be approximately the same height as the arm of the chair or sofa they're next to.​


5. Storage storage storage! - Don't forget this! there can never be too much storage space. Storage cabinets and case goods are placed against the wall, wherever the space allows. Media consoles and TV stands go under the television, and credenzas are usually placed on the longest wall. Shelves are high, open cabinets that display souvenirs, books, accessories and family photographs, and look best on a larger, empty wall so it doesn’t get crowded. You can also add bar cabinets and bar carts if you have that little corner to fill.




Living Room Details


Once the furniture is in place, it's important to think about where to place the accessories. Give just as much thought to placing living room accessories as you do the furniture.


1. Let There Be Light - Lighting is one of the most important elements of any room. I recommend using a mix of overhead lighting, floor lamps, and table lamps. You can place a fancy floor lamp the end of a sofa or behind an accent chair. You can place a table lamp look on side tables, shelves, and consoles. One more thing to keep in mind is lighting color. (No, not pink or blue... I'm talking about white or yellow).


2. Use the Right-Size Artwork - Wall art, mirrors, or sculptural objects need to be placed strategically, and in proportion to the furniture. Don’t hang a tiny photo over the back of your sofa, for example; instead, use either a large piece that is approximately two-thirds the length of the sofa, or use a grouping of pieces. If you’re absolutely determined to use a particular piece of art that is too small, put it in a larger frame with a large matte around it so it can hold its own when positioned near a large furniture piece.



3. Curtains - Hanging curtain rods just above the window can close in a space. Instead, hang the rod half a foot above the window frame. This will give the room a feeling of openness.


And there you have your living room arrangement tips for the day!


Let me know if you have any others in the comments!



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