Small living rooms can present a challenge when it comes to decorating and furnishing. Fortunately, there are plenty of stylish and creative ways to make the most out of a small space. We’ll take a look at some of the best small living room ideas to help you create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.Â
Arranging furniture around a focal point
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One way to make a small living room feel larger is to arrange furniture around a focal point. A focal point can be a fireplace, a piece of art, or a large window with a beautiful view. To create a focal point, arrange furniture in a way that frames it and makes it the centre of attention. Avoid placing furniture against the walls, as this can make the room feel cramped. Instead, create a conversation area by positioning a sofa and chairs around the focal point. Use smaller pieces, such as a coffee table or ottomans, to fill in empty spaces. This will create a sense of flow and make the room feel larger.
Create an open-plan design
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An open-plan design is a great way to make a small living space feel larger. This type of design involves removing walls or barriers between rooms to create a more open and airy feel. One way to achieve this is to remove walls between the living room and kitchen or dining area. This will make the space feel more cohesive and allow for more natural light to flow through the room.Â
Additionally, you can use furniture and decor to define different areas within the open-plan space. For example, using a rug to define the living room area or using a bar cart to separate the kitchen from the dining area. This will create a sense of division while still maintaining an open feel.
Use built-in cabinets and shelves for storage
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Built-in cabinets and shelves can be an excellent way to maximise storage space in a small living room. By incorporating built-in into the design, you can add a significant amount of storage without taking up valuable floor space. For example, you could install floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinets along one wall to store books, media, and other items. Or you could install a built-in bookshelf along another wall to showcase your favourite items.Â
These types of storage solutions can be customised to fit your specific needs and can blend seamlessly with the design of the room. Built-in shelves can also be used to create a focal point, display decor and art, and keep the space tidy. Built-in storage can be a great way to make a small living room feel larger and more functional.
Make the most of natural light
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Making the most of natural light is a great way to make a small living room feel larger and more open. Here are some tips:
- Keep window treatments minimal or eliminate them to let in as much light as possible.
- Lighten up a room with mirrors that reflect light.
- Paint the walls in light, neutral colours to reflect light and make the space feel larger.
- Use sheer or light-filtering window treatments to diffuse the light and soften the room.
- Place furniture strategically to avoid blocking natural light sources.
By making the most of natural light, you can create a bright, open, and inviting living room that feels much larger than it actually is.
Add artwork
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Adding artwork to a small living room can be a great way to enhance the design and make the space feel larger. Hanging art on the walls can create visual interest and draw the eye upward, making the ceiling appear higher and the room feel larger. A large piece of art can make a big impact in a small space and can serve as a focal point, drawing attention away from the room’s small size.Â
Additionally, artwork can add colour, texture, and personality to the room, making it feel more inviting and livable. When selecting artwork, it’s essential to choose pieces that complement the room’s overall design and colour scheme. You can also mix and match different styles of artwork to create a more eclectic and dynamic space.
Enhance the look of your living room with mirrors
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Using mirrors to make a small living room look more spacious is a clever design trick that can add visual interest and create the illusion of more space. Mirrors reflect light and create the appearance of depth, which can make a room feel larger and more open. A large mirror hung on a wall can be particularly effective in making a small living room feel bigger and brighter, reflecting natural light and creating the illusion of more space.Â
Additionally, using a group of smaller mirrors throughout the room can add visual interest and reflect light in different directions. Mirrors can also be used to create the illusion of a window, making the room feel more open and airy.
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FAQs
How can I make a small living room feel larger?
Use light colours on walls and floors, arrange furniture around a focal point, make use of natural light, incorporate built-in storage, and use mirrors to reflect light.
What are some ways to add visual interest to a small living room?
Add artwork, use bold patterns or textures, incorporate plants or other greenery, and use lighting to create a sense of depth and interest.
How can I create a sense of division in an open-plan living room?
Use furniture, rugs, or other decor to define different areas within the space. You can also use different flooring or ceiling treatments to create a sense of division.
Can I still use a lot of furniture in a small living room?
It is better to use less furniture, but with a good design, it can make a small living room feel larger and more functional. Use multi-functional furniture and avoid large, bulky pieces.
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