How To Furnish A Small Family Room In Your House?

5.0 rating based on 69 ratings

To create a cozy and functional narrow family room, follow these five tips:

  1. Free up floor space by selecting pieces that can be easily mounted to the walls.
  2. Maximize natural light by using vertical storage solutions and incorporating mirrors, wall decor, and efficient furniture arrangements.
  3. Utilize mirrors, wall decor, and efficient furniture arrangements to create an illusion of space in a confined area.
  4. Use mirrors, wall decor, and efficient furniture arrangements to make your space more inviting.
  5. Consider the layout of your living room and choose the best furniture and decor arrangements.
  6. Remove curtains over small windows near the fireplace and add at least one floor lamp and one or two table lamps to the room.
  7. Arrange furniture in zones and layouts, assessing space, choosing furniture, creating separate zones, alternating furniture groups, and adding finishing touches.
  8. Break up the lines in the room to disrupt the long narrow space.
  9. Add height to make your eye move around the room in a more efficient way.
  10. Arrange things in a way that maximizes space and enhances flow in your home.

In summary, following these tips can help you transform your narrow family room into a stylish and functional space that is perfect for spending time with family and friends. By following these tips and considering the right design choices and strategic thinking, you can create a comfortable and functional space that is perfect for spending time with family and friends.

Useful Articles on the Topic
ArticleDescriptionSite
Long And Narrow Living Room Layout Ideas – DIY PlaybookRemove the curtains over the small windows near the fireplace. · Add at least one floor lamp and one or two table lamps to the room for …thediyplaybook.com
7 Genius Ways to Make a Long, Narrow Living Room Feel …1. Triple Your Seating · 2. Hug the Wall (And Skip a Sofa) · 3. Create Separate Zones · 4. Alternate your Furniture Groupings · 5. Arrange Things …apartmenttherapy.com
How To Arrange Furniture In A Long Narrow Living RoomTips for how to arrange furniture in a long, narrow living room: assess space, choose furniture, create zones and layouts, and add finishing touches.ramblingrenovators.ca

📹 How To Arrange Your (Big Or Small) Living Room & 10+ Layout Configurations

If you enjoyed this video, like, share, and subscribe for more content! And get in touch by leaving a comment below. Shop My …


What Color Makes A Room Look Bigger
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Color Makes A Room Look Bigger?

Lighter paint colors like off-whites, light neutrals, and pastels create the illusion of larger, brighter spaces. Crisp white is a popular choice for enhancing the sense of space in a room. In this guide, we’ll explore ten paint colors that can visually expand any area. Soft neutrals like white, cream, and beige, along with pastel shades such as light blue or green, are favored for making rooms feel more airy. Painting the ceiling, trim, and doors the same color also contributes to the illusion of space.

While lighter colors are common for this purpose, designers are increasingly recommending other hues as well. The application of color is crucial; for instance, using similar shades on walls and ceilings can enhance the spacious feel. Some recommended colors to make smaller rooms appear larger include stark white, airy taupe, blush pink, and soothing blue, with lighter shades always preferred. Ultimately, a fresh coat of paint can significantly transform the perceived size of a room, making it feel larger without requiring extensive renovations.

How Do You Design A Narrow Room
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do You Design A Narrow Room?

Designing a long, narrow room requires thoughtful planning to avoid a cramped appearance. To enhance space while maintaining flow, consider the following strategies. First, use wall sconces and other wall-mounted items to free up floor space. Defining separate zones, such as reading nooks or sitting areas with rugs, contributes to a more dynamic layout. Layered lighting—incorporating ambient, task, and accent sources—also adds depth. Choose wallpaper patterns and colors that create an illusion of width, while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

Incorporating transparent furniture like glass tables can preserve sightlines, enhancing the sense of space. Also, consider dividing the area into two seating groups and place furniture arrangements across the room's width to break long lines. Opt for multifunctional and elevated furniture pieces with long legs to keep the space airy. Rounded furniture and decor, such as circular coffee tables and mirrors, can soften the look while maximizing usability. Through careful selection of furniture and arrangement, you can foster an inviting, open feel in your narrow room, transforming it into a pleasing and functional space.

How Can I Make My Family Room Look Bigger
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Can I Make My Family Room Look Bigger?

To make a space feel larger, consider the following tips:

  1. Accentuate Vertical Space: Draw the eye upward to create an illusion of height.
  2. Use "See-Through" Furniture: This allows light to pass through, enhancing openness.
  3. Lighten Surroundings: Use lighter color schemes to reflect natural light.
  4. Go Big with Accents: Larger decor pieces can make a room feel more spacious.
  5. Move Furniture Away from Walls: This creates flow and prevents a cramped feeling.
  6. Simplify Color Schemes: A cohesive palette can expand visual space.
  7. Skip Heavy Curtains: Opt for lighter window treatments to allow more light in.
  8. Bring Nature Indoors: Plants can add freshness without clutter.

De-cluttering is crucial; organize collections behind closed doors to create a clean look. Ensure proper lighting with ambient fixtures, and consider continuous flooring for a seamless appearance. Implementing these strategies doesn’t require a big budget or extensive renovations and can profoundly affect the perception of space in small rooms. Utilize intact mirrors and furniture carefully to maximize a room's functionality and aesthetics for a more spacious feel.

What Is Considered A Good Size Family Room
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Is Considered A Good Size Family Room?

Family rooms should ideally have high ceilings and ample seating space, with a standard size of approximately 12 x 18 feet, accommodating 6 to 10 people based on chosen furniture. The average living room size in the United States is about 340 square feet, typically laid out as 16 by 20 feet, making it suitable for homes between 2, 000 and 3, 000 square feet. The average living room generally ranges from 180 to 350 square feet (16. 7 to 32. 5 square meters), comfortably fitting 6 to 8 individuals.

Essential room sizes covered include bedrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, bathrooms, and more. The typical dimensions for a living room in America are 12 feet by 18 feet (about 216 square feet), a spacious area for relaxation and entertaining. Family room dimensions can vary based on factors such as available space and family needs. Homeowners often reassess their living room size based on family gatherings and guest visits. While the average is 12 x 18 feet, customization based on personal requirements is encouraged.

A minimum of 150 square feet is recommended for functionality. Smaller living rooms begin at around 7 x 10 feet, while medium sizes range from 12 x 18 to 15 x 20 feet. Large living rooms start from 300-350 square feet, necessitating thoughtful design to maximize utility and aesthetics.

How Do You Decorate A Long Narrow Living Room
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do You Decorate A Long Narrow Living Room?

When decorating a long, narrow living room, consider the room's proportions, as they influence the layout and zone creation, according to architect Francine Hsu Davis. Establishing a straight pathway can be challenging in such spaces. Begin by positioning the sofa against the longest wall, supplemented by side tables and lamps. A narrow console table can be placed opposite the sofa, creating balance. To effectively utilize the space, consider dividing the room into two seating areas, allowing for the use of regular-sized furniture.

Clever design techniques can transform a narrow room into a stylish and functional area. Avoid pushing furniture against the walls, as this accentuates the room's length. Instead, use circular or curved furniture pieces to soften the angularity of the space. Assess your area, select appropriate furniture, and create distinct zones and layouts for optimal arrangement. Placing the sofa across the room’s width can break linearity, enhancing the perception of space.

Options might include positioning the TV above the fireplace or relocating it to a side wall. Ultimately, streamlined and sleek furniture is ideal for maximizing a long, narrow living room's potential.

How To Decorate A Narrow Room
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How To Decorate A Narrow Room?

To effectively decorate a long narrow living room, utilize light colors for walls and furniture to create a sense of spaciousness. Incorporating mirrors can enhance brightness and make the space feel larger. Opt for circular furniture pieces that soften the angles of the room. Consider dividing the area into two distinct seating groups, allowing you to use standard-sized furniture while customizing each zone. It is crucial to measure the space before bringing in furnishings to ensure they fit comfortably.

Achieving a stylish and functional layout in a narrow living room may seem challenging, but with clever strategies, it is absolutely achievable. Interior designers suggest various techniques, such as pushing furniture against walls or using floorspace wisely. Additionally, selecting furniture that elevates off the ground can enhance the airy feel. Creating separate zones is vital; for example, position the sofa across the width of the room to disrupt long lines and promote a more inviting atmosphere. Implementing these thoughtful design choices can transform an awkward layout into a more cohesive and attractive living space.

What Pattern Makes A Small Room Look Bigger
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Pattern Makes A Small Room Look Bigger?

When it comes to enhancing small spaces, utilizing large patterns can significantly contribute to an illusion of spaciousness. Smaller patterns often make rooms appear cramped, while bold, repeating designs can create a sense of openness. Minimizing clutter is crucial; keeping collections organized behind doors or on shelves prevents a room from feeling overwhelmed. Consider furniture proportions; pieces that touch room boundaries can make the space feel smaller, so always leave room for air.

Opt for solid or monochromatic rugs to maintain a clean aesthetic. Clever designs can transform tiny areas into functional spaces, such as using floating vanities in compact bathrooms, paired with under-cabinet lighting for depth. Embrace tricks like vertical stripes to create height or bold horizontal lines to enhance width. Experts recommend light colors for walls and ceilings, which reflect light and generate a larger feel. Accessories hung higher can manipulate vertical space, while using repeat patterns helps draw the eye.

Geometric prints are effective for adding dimension, but it's best to stick with one or two colors to avoid overwhelming the space. These tips can help visually enlarge a room without any major renovations or structural changes.

How Do You Divide A Long Narrow Living Room
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do You Divide A Long Narrow Living Room?

To effectively design a long, narrow living room, consider using artwork and rugs to define distinct areas, which can help break up the space visually. Hang art to create a designated seating area and place a large mirror above a console to delineate another space, avoiding a centralized look. Dividing the room into two seating groups can optimize furniture usage while maintaining functionality. A straight walkway should be created to ease foot traffic.

This layout can present opportunities for stylish arrangements, such as distinct zones or symmetrical furniture placements. Utilize long furniture pieces, such as L-shaped sofas, and float furniture away from walls to create a more inviting layout. Incorporating color and natural light will enhance the area while mirrors can reflect light, creating a sense of openness. Emphasizing separate zones with differing seating arrangements allows for a cozy atmosphere without sacrificing space.

Suggestions include tripling seating, creatively using side chairs, and arranging sofas to disrupt the linear feel. Using area rugs can visually anchor each zone, contributing to an overall harmonious design. By strategically arranging furniture, a long narrow living room can become a functional and aesthetically pleasing space.

How Do You Make A Small Narrow Room Look Bigger
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do You Make A Small Narrow Room Look Bigger?

To enhance a narrow room and make it feel larger, focus on creating a focal point using colorful artwork or vibrant furniture pieces. Choose contrasting curtains or blinds for windows, which will help direct attention away from the room's narrowness. It's essential to avoid overcrowding the space with furniture; instead, opt for low-profile pieces like armless chairs or ottomans, and keep larger items along the walls. A solid paint color from floor to ceiling can create a cohesive look, while light shades, such as off-whites and pastels, will help to open the space visually.

Additionally, implement clever tricks like using large mirrors, hanging curtains at ceiling height, and opting for multifunctional furniture to maximize utility. Decluttering is vital, as too many items can make a room feel cramped. Continuous flooring can also enhance the perception of space. To summarize, consider paint color, furniture layout, lighting, and decor while strategically using optical illusions like oversized art to transform a narrow room into a more expansive and inviting area.

How Do You Arrange Furniture In A Narrow Living Room
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Do You Arrange Furniture In A Narrow Living Room?

To arrange furniture in a long, narrow living room effectively, creating distinct zones is crucial. Consider various uses for the space, such as incorporating dining areas or separate seating for activities like reading and watching TV. Start by assessing the layout, making sure to keep passageways at least 3 feet wide for comfort. Cozy arrangements, like placing furniture in corners, enhance foot traffic while optimizing space. It's important to be selective about which furniture pieces to keep, as a narrow room can quickly feel cramped.

Opt for smaller, interesting furnishings rather than bulky items, and aim for symmetry to ensure visual appeal. Popular layout options include positioning the TV above the fireplace or moving it to a side wall with varied seating arrangements. These considerations help create an open, inviting, and functional space that avoids overcrowding, ultimately maximizing the unique dimensions of narrow living rooms. Effective planning and thoughtful furniture placement will lead to a comfortable and stylish area.


📹 TOP 12 Living room + Dining room + Kitchen Interior Design Ideas Open Space Home Decor

Designing a Living Room + Dining Room open space is one of the most popular questions when it comes to interior design. In this …


Freya Gardon

Hi, I’m Freya Gardon, a Collaborative Family Lawyer with nearly a decade of experience at the Brisbane Family Law Centre. Over the years, I’ve embraced diverse roles—from lawyer and content writer to automation bot builder and legal product developer—all while maintaining a fresh and empathetic approach to family law. Currently in my final year of Psychology at the University of Wollongong, I’m excited to blend these skills to assist clients in innovative ways. I’m passionate about working with a team that thinks differently, and I bring that same creativity and sincerity to my blog about family law.

About me

12 comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Just found your website today and we are full throttle renovating now. No furnishings chosen yet so it’s just in time to incorporate your design wisdom. We are coming off a highly restrictive L shaped living room- dining combo room and have removed 2 interior walls to fully expose kitchen and go open concept on one floor of a 3 floor split. We have never had a tv in this on this floor. And after perusal several of your other articles, it seems far better that we should keep it that way! More serene. It certainly takes over a room’s design strategy and personality. To TV or not to TV. That’s the million dollar question, as it will certainly dominate the new great room if we add one into the mix. Soul searching is required on this one. 🔮

  • Ohhh, this is great timing! Mom and I are gonna figure out how to update my apartment living room soon. I have a small living room, but it’s also an office because of how small my apartment is. Ha ha! And a half wall peering into the kitchen. I have much to think about because I have some junk in here, but also some machines that I need for work (and play!).

  • Great ideas. The challenge in my long and somewhat narrow living room is that walls on the long side of the rectangle are askew. Part of one wall is missing to open into the dining area. This makes placing the sofa (really a love seat) and TV/stereo console difficult because they can’t face each other equally spaced within the length of their walls. If I place the TV and sofa on the short sides of the rectangle, they would be very far apart. I currently have the sofa, armchairs and coffee table arranged in the “U” shaped arrangement (6:02), but the sofa juts into the opening to the dining area. I also think my furniture is too big for the space (at least the armchairs are), so I have a few issues to solve.

  • Hi there! Love your content. This comes at a perfect timing! We’re in the process of buying a sofa and we were thinking about how to layout our living room. My question to you is: how come the wall where you put the sofa is never a focal point? I mean, if you put a big painting above it, wouldn’t it be one also? Thanks!

  • America thinks so much about their sofas. I always liked the British lay out with a small fireplace and two wing chairs angled towards each other and a side table for each. So cozy. Many households now contain just 2 people. You can’t really sit side-by-side and talk so one person is on the sofa and the other in a chair anyway. When I was married this is what we did. When I divorced and moved in to a very small condo, I didn’t get a sofa. I put an easy chair across from the TV, and have a leather chaise lounge for reading. I also have a couple of smaller upholstered chairs that I can move around as needed. I love the flexibility. In a small space you don’t need a sofa.

  • Man my biggest pet peeve with modern living rooms is folks placing their tv up high above fire places. Breaks my neck just looking at such pictures. Just cause you CAN place a tv there doesn’t mean you should. I also understand some living room design in newer houses literally can only allow the tv above a fireplace. This trend needs to stop!!! /rant 😂

  • Hi, I’m going to have agranny flat built from Elpor in Melbourne. It’s the 2 bedroom $152,000 one. I’m at a loss as to where to put my sofa and TV. Is the middle of the room ok? With a large rug? I also dislike the mirror in the bathroom (offset with the widow?? Yuk.) Thanks for any help, I’m at a loss. Love your articles!!

  • How would you arrange a living room that is entered from all angles? 2 entry ways from the kitchen /dining room (the living room is adjacent and there is a fireplace between the two openings) an entrance from the front door. Entrance to staircase leading to basement. Entrance to side hallway leading to bedrooms, entrance to side hallway leading to garage

  • Interesting but these rooms rarely have a fire place. I don’t want my tv over the fireplace so I have two focal points and an odd shaped small living room with a door at an odd angle. I have no choice but to push the seating back against the wall as their is simply no room/no flow if I do anything else. Useful ideas but mostly for rooms with regular shapes and room to move around. Love your website – however would like to see you focus on some irregular rooms. Many of us are struggling with design dilemmas like this.

  • I just bought a home and i really need help with designing my small living room with a real brick fireplace. It was built in 1952. The mantel too high so my TV would be placed too high. I’d prefer it to be at sitting eye level. Plus, I’m not comfortable putting my TV over the mantel because I may want to use my fireplace. I’m thinking about putting the TV on the opposite wall and creating a conversational space instead. Thoughts?

  • My problem is trying to figure out the layout for an 11 X 16 foot media room! With the full wall entertainment center on the end (11foot) wall and a bi fold double door entrance on the other end, with a huge 3 window grouping on the one long wall, I cant figure out how to arrange seating to fit 3 couples and NOT look like a movie theater so we can sit and talk when we aren’t perusal TV on movie night! Any ideas?

  • I picked out the wrong carpet and it’s done being installed. I wanted to go for a more warm look and instead our carpet is a grey tone with brown but very little brown, our trim floor board on wall is white and wall is light green, our recliners are brown and I’m losing my mind trying to figure out what I’m going to do. We already spent a good amount on extra carpet padding and stain proof easy clean fabric .. … :/heeeeeelp

Divorce Readiness Calculator

How emotionally prepared are you for a divorce?
Divorce is an emotional journey. Assess your readiness to face the challenges ahead.

Tip of the day!

Pin It on Pinterest

We use cookies in order to give you the best possible experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies.
Accept
Privacy Policy