Ideas for Awkward Living Room Areas
This year, think beyond the couch to add interest and utility to the living room
dytecture
December 31, 2011
When most people design a furniture plan for the living room, they start by finding the focal point, then place seating around it. The leftover space may get some bookshelves or pictures on the walls. But this strategy doesn't work too well in larger rooms, as the distance behind the sofa and the wall are too great, making the sofas float in the middle of the room.
Do you have a corner or wall in the living room that you are not sure what to do with? See how designers deal with these situations.
Do you have a corner or wall in the living room that you are not sure what to do with? See how designers deal with these situations.
A reading chair with a contrasting color scheme makes the monochromatic living room more eye-catching.
The asymmetric treatment in this eclectic room creates interest without overpowering the rest of the furniture.
Here, a set of dining chairs and small table are placed next to the bay window, creating a cozy area. This arrangement is great for extra seating when entertaining.
Putting a desk in a corner guarantees a well-functioning area. Be sure to install adequate lighting.
The old mirror trick is used to make this living room look bigger, while working with vintage furniture to create a cottage feel.
The corner of the room has an awkward angle, making it difficult to place furniture. But a unique curio cabinet fits perfectly.
Decorative screens are not just for dividing rooms. This technique can be used as an alternative to hanging pictures.
A glass console table with a supporting architectural column creates a light and airy wall behind the sofa.
More: 8 Great Uses for a Lonely Corner
How to Arrange Furniture in Long, Narrow Spaces
Brilliant Solution: The Curved Sofa
More: 8 Great Uses for a Lonely Corner
How to Arrange Furniture in Long, Narrow Spaces
Brilliant Solution: The Curved Sofa
Related Stories
Basements
30 Fun and Creative Ideas to Elevate Your Basement
See how home bars, golf simulators, craft rooms, saunas and other fab features turn lower levels into top attractions
Full Story
Storage
25 Hidden Doors and Secret Spaces
Sneak ideas from pantries, playrooms and other spaces concealed behind bookcases and camouflaged doors
Full Story
Photo Flip
25 Home Bars Stashed Under the Stairs
These home bars make refreshing use of the awkward spaces under stairs
Full Story
Basements
Semifinished Basement Remade Into a Chic Family Lounge
By Becky Harris
The transformed space features a black-and-white palette, a stunning bar countertop and a wine bottle display
Full Story
Basements
Denver Basement Adds Family-Friendly Living Space
By Becky Harris
A designer and a contractor convert a crawl space into a smart and stylish place for playing, relaxing and entertaining
Full Story
Basements
Shiplap, Oak Accents and Layers of Light Warm a Basement Design
By Becky Harris
The lower level of this New Jersey home has a TV lounge, home gym, pingpong room and bathroom-locker room
Full Story
Outbuildings
We Can Dream: Ultimate Sports Barn
This newly built barn in the upper Northeast features a private bowling alley, basketball court and movie theater
Full Story
Bedrooms
5 Things You Didn’t Know Your Bedroom Needed
Don’t miss out any longer — these additions to your sleep space can make life so much lovelier
Full Story
Room of the Day
Room of the Day: Storage Space Turned Classy Dressing Room
In this vintage-inspired space, Mom can get ready for the day or take some time for herself
Full Story
Laundry Rooms
Dream Spaces: 10 Ideas for a Get-It-Done Utility Room
Boost a laundry or utility space with design ideas that will make the room as good-looking as it is useful
Full Story
These are great photos. Thanks for the fresh ideas on working with those awkward spaces. Especially love the tree branches in the beach themed room. I especially love the playful use of color in that room. Thanks!
Some layering with a small table, plant, lamp and then family photos solved a "space hole" in this family room.
A desk was used on a very long plain wall of the same family room. It was oriented out into the room giving it presence. Work, read, browse on the laptop, or pay bills while keeping an eye on the television and chatting with family.