5 Simple Furniture Planning Tips for Your Living Room

Add some flair to your living room and plan your furniture like a pro with five simple tips.

The Modern Living Room

Wait…why’s it called a living room if we live in every room?

The beauty of the modern living room is its multi-functional nature. Sometimes called the front room or lounge, it’s usually set up as a general-use area in a home, ideal for unwinding after a long day, hanging out with family and friends, or entertaining guests on special occasions. Though a TV or entertainment center is a pretty common staple in most living rooms, you’re also going to have to find the best way to include upholstery (sofa, loveseat, chairs) as well as occasional tables, lamps, and maybe even a bookshelf or other furniture. Sure, this may seem straightforward enough, but with too much furniture or the wrong arrangement, your space might feel cramped or (even worse) it could get in the way of your conversation and relaxation.

Take It Easy

Tip #1: Create a Relaxing Space

Consider planning your living room to be an at-home getaway from tough days at work, school, or anything else. Comfortable and cool, you want to be able to kick back and really take your mind off of things after “one of those days”. Netflix is great and all but simply adding a TV in the mix doesn’t always create the kind of environment we’re looking for. If it fits the aesthetic, aim for colors on the lighter side of the spectrum to help build a simple and chill atmosphere. This is also a great time to start considering some understated accents and modern-looking décor to help bring the whole look together. Taking advantage of every available window as a source of natural light and fresh air can also be a real game-changer. Don’t feel like you need to skip over a comfy recliner or a stylish armchair/footstool combo if you really like to put your feet up.

Bare Necessities

Tip #2: Don’t Overcrowd Things

Whether your living room is huge or on the smaller size, the last thing you want to do is overcrowd it with any unnecessary elements like bulky furniture or accents with no real functionality. To piggyback off of our previous tip, there’s nothing relaxing or chill about a stuffy, crowded room. While it might be tempting to throw in everything when planning your furniture, it’s always important to take into account how much room you really have available – because it goes quick! Instead, keep it simple by prioritizing functionality and a stylish minimalist design to start with. Like most things, you can always add to it later if you need to, but it can be difficult to go back after you’ve already purchased, hauled, and assembled your furniture.

We Need to Talk

Tip #3: Facilitate Comfortable Conversations

Try arranging furniture like sofas and chairs so you’re close enough to face your guests, look them in the eyes, and speak comfortably without having to strain your neck. You also don’t want to be seated so far away that you need to shout in order to be heard. Finding the right balance here can be tricky so try using a cocktail table as a rule of thumb. In many cases, if everybody can reach their drink on the table easily from their seat without the furniture feeling like it’s in the way, you’re on your way to a well-planned layout for socializing. A great sectional can be a safe and cost-effective piece if you’re having trouble finding that perfect balance.

Remain Flexible

Tip #4: Stay Open to New Ideas and Uses

I think we can all agree that sometimes our plans have to change. A versatile living room can really be a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch. If you don’t have the luxury of a dedicated room for a home office, play room, dining room etc., consider combining what you need into one multipurpose room. Since the living room/office hybrid has become more of a thing lately, it never hurts to invest in a decorative, but functional screen divider to provide a little extra privacy during important calls or when wrapping up that last-minute report. Storage is key to making it all work in one space so consider nesting tables or bench ottomans with compartments to tuck away clutter. Also try functional furniture with shelving and cabinets such as a media chest or perhaps even a wall of bookshelves if space allows.

Honey, I Shrunk the Living Room

Tip #5: There’s nothing wrong with cozy.

If you’re worried that your living room space isn’t big enough to relax comfortably or have a few friends over for coffee – don’t! Cozy and intimate could be just what your space calls for. Instead of buying smaller furniture, think about breaking traditional furniture down into smaller pieces whenever possible to create the illusion of more space. For example, instead of buying a small sofa, consider using two comfortable arm chairs. Instead of your standard bulky cocktail and end tables combo, consider keeping it nice and simple two small tables – or nesting tables for even more flexibility.

Your Layout Made Easy

There’s a better way.

Setting up your living room doesn’t have to be stressful or costly. AFR Furniture Rental offers an affordable online home and apartment furniture rental process, perfect for furnishing your space. We provide everything you need to rent furniture for your home on your terms. Select a furniture package to complete your home or apartment including electronics and appliances, housewares, and decorative items.

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