Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Communicate with all others who will share the living space. Getting input from all involved is very important. It should be a team effort, unless it is agreed on in advance that you are the superior decorator who can call the shots.
Step2
Look at Window and Door Placement. Check on things that are important to you, such as having enough windows or doors that could interfere with furniture placement. All of these things will dictate where you place your furniture in the room.
Step3
Take note of any room features that would create placement issues. If your room has bay windows, pillars, dormers, or two distinct sections, this can be a problem. In this case, it is wise to look at the room as two separate smaller living areas, with different functions for each section.
Step4
Draw your room to scale. This is done using graph paper and a ruler. You measure the room in feet, and transfer the measurements to the graph paper making one square foot equal one square on the paper.
Step5
Use your drawn room and furniture pieces to arrange furniture without lifting a thing. Keep in mind the architecture of the room, window and door placement as previously mentioned.
Step6
Try out different arrangements in person with the help of a couple of friends if you are still indecisive. Seeing things physically can make a difference.
Creative Commons image by flickr member austinevan