How to Arrange a Sofa in a Small Living Room

A small living room presents the challenge of arranging the sofa to create an inviting seating area without crowding the room. The living room provides the hospitality center for the home and requires a comfortable layout for the enjoyment of household members and guests. Work with the room's main features to design a layout that will be functional and attractive. Use a few basic guidelines to avoid crowding and maximize the available space.

Things You'll Need

• Assistant
• Measuring tape
• Notebook
• Pen
• Grid paper or online room design site

Instructions

1. Measure the sofa. Extend the tape the full width of the sofa. Many sofas are widest at the arm rests. Set the tape at the farthest edge and extend it along the sofa to outside edge of the other arm. Note the measurement. Measure for depth by holding the tape at the back of the back rest and extending it until it lines up with the front edge of the seat. Measure height by running the tape from the floor to the tallest part of the sofa's back. Measure twice and note the measurements.

2. Sketch the room. Note where the outlets are and any stationary features such as a picture window and fireplace. Note the position of the entertainment center.

3. Select the focal point of the room. This is usually the entertainment center, fireplace or picture window. If there is only one place for the entertainment center and you want to use the sofa for watching TV, this will limit where the sofa can go.

4. Sketch the sofa on your floor plan. Place it facing the room's focal point. Add the coffee table or end tables to make sure there is enough room. Allow space for walkways (at least 1 1/2-feet wide) to get to and from the sofa.

5. Move the sofa into position. Place the coffee table and/or end tables. Sit down to check the reach from the seating to the tables for drinks. Walk around the sofa to check for adequate walkways. Adjust the positions for comfort if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, place the sofa against the longest wall directly facing the focal point (TV, fireplace, piano or window). This will create the most spacious look.

• Look into replacing the sofa with chairs or a love seat and chair to create a more open feel to the room.

• Swivel chairs make a good alternative to a sofa in a small room. They can face the TV or each other without having to move the furniture.

• Get help moving furniture to avoid risk of injury.

References

• Furniture For Small Spaces: Ideas on Arranging Furniture
• Country Living: Living Room Makeover

Resources

• Home Furnish: Chairs and Seating
• See My Design: Interior Design and Decorating