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Smaller living spaces can be tricky to work with, especially when you need to design a long, narrow living room layout. The dimensions are considerably tighter and it’s easy to feel congested even with just a few items in. However, when done right, you can create a cozy yet breathable space to relax in or to welcome guests.
Building a good living room layout requires plenty of thought and finesse. Here are some tips that can help you curate the best space possible.
What aspects of your living room do you truly need? Seating is often provided to ensure a comfortable space you can share with others. However, every other aspect, in terms of functionality and decor, is up to you.
For some people, it’s important to have a television and an entertainment system for rest and relaxation. Others may prioritize creating a second space where they have a drink and curl up with a book.
It’s important to have some breathing room to walk through without worrying about bumping into anything. It can also uphold Feng Shui, in which passageways should provide a clear route for chi to flow throughout the home.
Clear pathways can also be helpful for cleaning and maintenance in the long run. There’s less furniture-moving when you just want to vacuum and tidy up.
Divide and conquer can be a key strategy when dealing with a long, narrow living room layout. It just feels easier to decorate two squares of floor space rather than a long rectangle.
There are many styles of room dividers that you can use to accomplish this, from folding screens to sliding glass panels. You can also choose more functional options, like open bookshelves to store your collection and displays.
Natural light makes any space better, since it can help enhance your mental and physical health while improving visibility. That said, it’s especially helpful for more narrow spaces, since you have the option to save space since you don’t need to add multiple lighting fixtures.
Aside from the minimalist design, the integration of windows feels like opening up the area to the great outdoors. Add in mirrors and you’ll complete the illusion of a bigger space.
A narrower space means that you have to be more mindful about the size of your furniture. Opt for smaller tables and nightstands over larger coffee and end tables. Rather than getting a too-big television stand, pick a thinner one that fits your screen just right.
It’s still up to personal preference, though, on what you’re willing to shrink. For example, having three chairs or bean bags over one long sofa may be space-saving, but it may not fit your vision to a tee.
While your floor space may be limited, the vertical space offers a great avenue for decor and storage. Wall art can be fun, but the possibilities are endless.
For instance, instead of choosing an elongated display case, consider a taller display shelf that takes up less room. With televisions, you can mount them on the wall rather than putting them on a stand. There are even swivel wall mounts that let you adjust your TV’s angle for a more relaxing viewing experience.
There’s an instinct to push the furniture against the wall, especially in a long, narrow living room layout. It makes sense to create that open pathway in between, but it depends on the dimensions and situation. In some cases, it could be better to have some items in the center.
Rather than cramming both the couch and the living room table by the wall, moving the table to the center can actually create more balance than you’d think. Instead of placing a hanging lamp in the corner, angle it more toward the middle.
Just because you placed certain furniture down doesn’t mean it has to remain there forever. Know that you have the freedom to rearrange the living room as much as you’d like, until it starts to look and feel right to you.
Rearranging can be a foreign concept, especially if you live in an environment where everything stays put. However, the activity can give you a sense of control and inspire inner growth. Plus, if it means ending up with a living room you’ll love, it’s all the more worth it to try.
Inspiration can help with designing your home. Here are several living room ideas that utilize the creative design tips:
https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/3588874698499722/
Small circular tables in the center provide surface area without occupying too much space, which complements the chosen long couch. At the end of the living room, you get gorgeous, wide windows that bring in sunshine without being too bright.
https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/412853490869124799/
If seating is your main priority in the living room, this photo with a regular-sized couch, floor cushions and area rug can look delightful. The carefully curated lighting fixtures add a beautiful warmth to the whole space.
https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/70437491334658/
Did you know that over 30% of households in America garden at home? Get creative and find unconventional surfaces to add your potted plants to. Make sure there’s enough natural light to help the greenery thrive. A hanging houseplant would’ve been the cherry on top for this to fully take advantage of vertical space.
https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/1477812375363530/
If you want to do little hobbies like painting or reading in your living room, have a makeshift area with a thin mat, cushions and a floor table. You can even decorate with all kinds of art prints and displays to make it as cozy a nook as possible.
Navigating and styling a long, narrow living room layout can definitely feel like a puzzle. But with enough thought and time, the pieces will feel like they’re falling into place. Share your favorite tip or inspiration!
