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First things first, the key to furniture placement is dependent upon the room’s main focal point. This is often a fireplace, a set of windows, or your television. Once the focal point is determined, you can begin to design the furniture around it.
Here are five tips on how to best place your furniture to maximize your living space:
1. Facing Straight On
One of the most traditional arrangements starts with placing your sofa or main source of seating across from the focal point. It is often one of the most functional designs, especially when all other furniture pieces are angled the same direction. When it comes to entertaining, if you aren’t planning on watching Direct TV or using the fireplace, add ottomans or floor pillows across from the sofa in order to bring the entertainment into one cohesive circle.
2. Multiple Doors
If the space has multiple doors leading in and out, furniture placement is key to directing people through the space. Draw imaginary lines between the doors from opening to opening, allowing you to keep in mind whether or not your furniture placement is awkwardly blocking the flow of traffic.
3. Sectional Seating
If you have a sectional sofa, the best solution can often feel like pushing it into a corner. However, that particular placement can make the room feel claustrophobic, as being pressed up against the walls leaves little room for air movement. If the size of the space allows, pull the sofa away from the wall. This gives you the added bonus of being able to place console tables behind the couch, which is a great space to add extra light fixtures.
4. Symmetrical
A great option for furniture layout is a classic, symmetrical arrangement. This arrangement usually has all seating furniture in a face-to-face layout. Typically, the furniture is placed directly across from one another with either the sofas facing each other, or the sofa and two accent chairs facing each other, and the focal point at one of the ends. Positioning the furniture in this manner is ideal for entertaining. Because no one has a direct view of the focal point, this set-up facilitates conversation.
5. Flexibility
Lastly, when it comes to your living room’s arrangement, flexibility is important. Because all rooms are laid out differently and all furniture is different, you may have to play around with your furniture until you find a cohesive arrangement. The most important aspect is to make sure there is space between furniture and a place for everyone to set their drink down.
When it comes to designing the flow and style of your room, find an arrangement that feels warm and homey to both you and your guests.