It’s not always easy to figure out the best way to furnish and decorate a small living room. With so little space to work with, it can be tricky to make everything feel comfortable and look stylish at the same time. One piece of furniture that can often pose a challenge in this regard is the sectional. Sectional sofas are notoriously large and bulky, and they can often take up more space than you have to spare in a small living room. In this guide, we’ll give you some tips on how to place a sectional in a small living room without sacrificing style or comfort.
Can a Sectional Sofa Work in a Small Room?
A sectional sofa is a large piece of furniture that typically consists of several sections. These sections can be arranged in different ways to create different looks, which makes them very versatile. They are usually upholstered in fabric or leather and can have many different features, such as recliners, chaises, or built-in storage.
The thing is, sectional sofas can be very bulky, and when you have a small living room, you might not think that one would be a good option. But the truth is, a sectional can actually work very well in a small space and can even turn your small living room into a cozy and comfortable retreat. [1]
What to Keep in Mind Prior to Buying a Sectional Sofa for Your Small Living Room
If you decide that a sectional sofa is the way to go in your living room, there are a few things you should keep in mind before making your purchase.
Measure your room
The first thing you need to do is measure your room. You need to know the exact dimensions of your living room so that you can find a sectional that will fit. Not all sectionals are created equal, and some are much larger than others. You’ll need to know how much space you have to work with so that you can choose a sectional that will fit comfortably. Once you have your measurements, you can start shopping around for the perfect sofa.
A large sectional can overpower a small room, so it’s important to choose one that is the right size. When measuring your living room, don’t forget to leave some space for people to walk around comfortably. You also want to make sure that the sofa will fit through all of the doorways leading into the room.
Make a plan
It’s also important to think about the layout of your living room and how the sectional will be arranged.
And if you have a very open living room, you might want to consider getting a larger sectional so that everyone can have a seat. There are all sorts of options available, so it’s important to think about what will work best for your space.
Consider how you want to arrange the other furniture in your room as well. You’ll want to make sure that there is enough space for everyone to move around comfortably once you have the sectional in place. And you might also want to think about whether you want the sofa to be the focal point of your room or if you would prefer something else. You’ll also want to be sure that the sectional doesn’t block any doors or windows.
If you have a large window, you might want to put the sectional in front of it so that you can take advantage of the natural light. If you have a fireplace, you might want to put the sectional next to it so that you can enjoy the warmth of the fire.
Once you have a plan in mind, it will be much easier to find the perfect sectional for your small living room and create a comfortable, tidy design.
Choose lighter fabrics
When you’re shopping for a sectional sofa, you’ll also want to think about the fabric. If you have a small living room, you might want to choose a lighter-colored fabric so that the space doesn’t feel too heavy. But the main benefit of a lighter fabric is that it’ll stand out more. There are all sorts of fabrics available, so it’s important to take some time to think about what will work best in your space.
You’ll also want to consider how easy the fabric is to clean. If you have kids or pets, you might want to choose a fabric that is easy to wipe down or that can be easily spot-cleaned.
If you want to make your room feel even more open, you might consider adding some mirrors or using light-colored paint on the walls. These are just a few of the ways you can make your small living room feel more spacious and inviting.
Style of the sofa
This doesn’t have anything to do with practicality, but it’s still important to consider the style of the sofa. Do you want something traditional or modern? Upholstered in fabric or leather? With or without recliners? With so many models available, it’s important to choose a style that you love.
After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time in your living room, and you want it to be a space that you enjoy being in. [1],[2],[3]
How to Place a Sectional Sofa in a Smaller Living Room
Finally, once you have all of these factors sorted out, it’s time to think about how to place your sectional sofa in your small living room. Below we will list some design ideas and tips on how to make the most of your space.
Place the sectional against the wall
If you have a small room, you can’t really afford placing furniture in the middle of the room and block the flow. So, one of the best ways to place a sectional in a small living room is to put it against the wall. This way you create more space in the middle of the room which makes your room appear larger.
Another advantage of placing your sofa against the wall is that you can create a cozy nook for reading or relaxing. All you need to do is add a floor lamp and a side table next to your sofa, and you have yourself a cozy little spot.
If you want to take this idea one step further, you can also add some shelving above your sofa. This way you can create a focal point for your living room and make use of that empty wall space.
Place it in the intimate zone of your room
When placing your sectional in the intimate zone of your room, you create a cozy and inviting space where people can gather and chat.
You can also add some throw pillows and blankets to make this space even more inviting.
If you want to create a more formal look, you can also add a rug under your coffee table. This will help define the space and make it feel more polished. [2],[3]
Place in into the corner
Thanks to their construction, sectional sofas are perfect for filling up a corner in your living room. This is a great way to make use of otherwise wasted space and it will also create a cozy little nook for you to relax in. In addition, it will help to create more space in the middle of the room which can be used for other furniture or even just for walking around. If you have a square living room, this can be a great way to make use of all of the available space. Just be sure that you measure the dimensions of your room properly, since the sofa needs to be tucked tightly into the corner.
You can also use this opportunity to create a reading nook or workspace by adding a small table, lamp, and chair next to your sectional.
Another advantage of placing your sectional in the corner is that it will help to anchor the space and create a focal point. This is especially important if your living room is on the smaller side.
Divide the sofa into multiple sections
Sectional sofas are unique in that they can be divided into multiple sections. This gives you the flexibility to arrange the sofa in a way that best fits your space. If you have a small living room, you might want to consider dividing the sofa into two or three smaller sections and arranging them in different ways.
For example, you could put one section against the wall and use the other section as a chaise lounge. Or, you could place two sections together in an L-shape to create a cozy nook. There are all sorts of possibilities, so it’s important to experiment until you find what works best for your space.
Another advantage of dividing the sofa into multiple sections is that it can be easier to move around. If you need to rearrange your furniture or if you move to a new home, you can simply take the sections apart and put them back together in a different configuration.
Divide the room with an L-shaped sofa
If you have an open room layout, you might consider flipping the L-shaped sofa so it backs up to the next room.
You can also use this as an opportunity to create two different living areas in one open space.
Just make sure that if you do decide to go with this method, that the furniture placement doesn’t block any doorways or pathways. The last thing you want is for your guests to feel trapped in one area of the room! [1],[2],[3]
Create an entertainment corner with it
If you have a narrow living room, you can also try placing the sofa against one wall with the chaise lounge on the other side. This will create a cozy spot for you to relax in and entertain your guests while still leaving plenty of space for movement. You can also add a few accent chairs and a coffee table to complete the look. You can also use this space for reading, working on your laptop, or even taking naps! Just be sure that you have enough light so you don’t feel like you’re in a cave.
You’ll want to place it so that it faces the main focal point in the room, such as a fireplace or television. This will create a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere for guests and yourself to enjoy!
One thing to avoid is placing your sofa too close to the TV. This can create an awkward viewing angle and make it difficult to watch TV from your couch. Instead, try to create a bit of distance between the two so you can relax and enjoy your favorite shows. [2],[3]
Things to Avoid
We have already talked about a few things to avoid when placing your sectional sofa, but here are a few more things to keep in mind.
Avoid blocking the windows
One of the worst things you can do is block the windows with your furniture. Not only does this make the room feel smaller, but it also cuts off all of the natural light. If you have a small living room, you want to avoid doing anything that will make it feel even more cramped.
So, be sure to leave plenty of space around the windows and try not to block them with any furniture. In addition, you might want to consider adding some sheer curtains to let in some light without sacrificing your privacy.
Living rooms need to have enough access to natural light. You want your room to feel airy and cozy, not like a prison.
Don’t block the doorways
Another thing to avoid is blocking the doorways. This one seems like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people block doorways by misplacing their furniture. Not only is it annoying having to move around furniture every time you want to leave the room, but it is also a safety hazard.
If you have a small living room, chances are you don’t have a lot of extra space to work with. So, when placing your sectional sofa, make sure you leave enough space for people to walk around comfortably.
Limit the pillows and throws
Pillows and throws are a great way to add comfort and style to your living room, but you don’t want to go overboard. If you have too many pillows and throws, it can make the room feel cluttered and small. Instead, try to limit yourself to a few key pieces that will add comfort without taking up too much space.
In addition, be sure to choose pillows and throws that complement the style of your sofa. You don’t want anything that is going to clash or look out of place.
You can also utilize pillows as a seasonal decoration. In the winter, you might want to add a few plush pillows for extra warmth. In the summer, you can switch them out for something lighter and brighter. [1]
Don’t overcrowd the room with furniture
Your living room should feel spacious and welcoming, not cramped and cluttered. Avoid overcrowding the room with furniture by choosing pieces that are the right size for the space.
Best way to deal with it is to utilize the wall space. Get a couch that is lower to the ground with slim legs. This will make your room appear more open.
And lastly, don’t forget about storage! A living room can quickly become cluttered if there’s nowhere to put things. Look for furniture with built-in storage, such as a TV stand with cabinets or an ottoman with a shelf underneath. You can also add your own storage solutions, like baskets and bins, to keep things organized.
Comparison of Options for Utilizing Empty Space in the Living Room
This table provides a comparison of different options for making the most of empty space in the living room. It highlights various indicators to help you evaluate the suitability of each option based on your preferences and requirements. The table is presented in the imperial system for measurement units.
| Option | Space Requirement (in sq. ft.) | Cost ($) | Complexity (1-5) | Functionality (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bookshelf | 5 | 100 | 2 | 4 |
| Home Office Setup | 30 | 500 | 4 | 5 |
| Indoor Plants Corner | 10 | 200 | 3 | 3 |
| Media Center | 25 | 800 | 5 | 4 |
| Cozy Reading Nook | 15 | 300 | 2 | 5 |
Explanation:
- Option: Describes different utilization options for the empty living room space.
- Space Requirement (in sq. ft.): Indicates the approximate area each option would occupy in square feet.
- Cost ($): Represents the estimated cost associated with implementing each option.
- Complexity (1-5): Rates the level of difficulty involved in setting up each option, with 1 being the simplest and 5 being the most complex.
- Functionality (1-5): Assesses the level of functionality provided by each option, with 1 being the least functional and 5 being highly functional.
By referring to this table, you can compare the space requirements, costs, complexity, and functionality of different options. This will assist you in making an informed decision on how to best utilize the empty space in your living room according to your specific needs and preferences.
FAQ
Should you put a sectional against the wall?
A sectional can go against the wall, but it doesn’t have to. If your small living room is long and narrow, placing the sofa against the longest wall will make the space feel larger. You can also float it in the middle of the room if you want to create a conversation area.
Another option is to put the sectional at an angle. This can be especially helpful if you have a corner fireplace that you want to make use of. By angling your furniture, you can create a natural flow into the rest of the room.
How do you arrange an L shaped sofa in a small living room?
If you have a small living room, you might be wondering how to arrange an L shaped sofa in the space. There are a few things to consider when placing a sectional in a small living room. First, you’ll want to measure the dimensions of your room and the sofa to make sure it will fit comfortably.
Due to their shape, L shaped sofas are ideal to be tucked into a corner of a room. This can help to save space and make the most of your small living room.
Another thing to keep in mind is the traffic flow in your living room. You’ll want to make sure there is enough space for people to walk around comfortably without having to squeeze past furniture. Keep this in mind when choosing where to place your L shaped sofa.
What size living room do you need for a sectional?
Sectional sofas come in all shapes and sizes, from L-shaped to U-shaped to curved. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a sectional for a small living room is that it should be the appropriate scale for the space.
Sectional sofas come in different sizes, however their length is usually around 94” and 156”. This means that you will need a living room that is at least 94” long in order to accommodate a sectional sofa.
What are some creative ways to fill empty space in the living room?
There are several creative ways to fill empty space in the living room:
- Consider adding a bookshelf or a display cabinet to showcase your collection of books, art pieces, or decorative items.
- Create a cozy reading nook by placing a comfortable armchair and a small side table with a lamp and some books.
- Set up a home office area with a desk, chair, and storage solutions to make the most of the space.
- Add a console table with a mirror or artwork above it to create an elegant and functional entryway.
- Install floating shelves or wall-mounted storage units to display plants, photographs, or other decorative items.
- Create a conversation corner by arranging a few comfortable chairs and a coffee table.
- Set up a mini bar area with a bar cart, stools, and glassware for entertaining guests.
- Consider incorporating a small indoor garden with potted plants and hanging greenery to bring nature indoors.
How can I utilize an empty corner in the living room?
An empty corner in the living room can be utilized in various ways:
- Place a tall indoor plant or a small tree in a decorative pot to add greenery and fill the corner.
- Create a cozy reading nook by placing a comfortable armchair, a floor lamp, and a small side table with books.
- Install corner shelves to display decorative items, books, or plants.
- Set up a small workstation with a compact desk, chair, and storage solutions.
- Add a decorative room divider or a folding screen to separate the corner and create a visual focal point.
- Install a wall-mounted TV or create a media corner with a TV stand and a comfortable seating arrangement.
- Design a cozy meditation or yoga corner with a floor cushion, a small table, and soothing decor.
What can I do with an empty wall in the living room?
Here are some ideas to make use of an empty wall in the living room:
- Hang a large piece of artwork or a statement mirror to create a focal point and add visual interest.
- Create a gallery wall with a collection of framed photos, artwork, or prints.
- Install floating shelves to display decorative items, books, or plants.
- Add a wall-mounted TV and design a media area with a console table or an entertainment center.
- Install a decorative wall mural or wallpaper to enhance the ambiance and add a unique touch.
- Create a wall-mounted bookshelf or a display cabinet to showcase books, collectibles, or decorative objects.
- Hang a decorative tapestry, woven wall hanging, or a set of decorative plates to add texture and visual appeal.
- Install a wall-mounted fireplace or an electric fireplace to add warmth and a cozy atmosphere.
How can I make use of a large empty space in the living room?
If you have a large empty space in the living room, here are some ways to utilize it:
- Create a seating area with a large sectional sofa, armchairs, and a coffee table for entertaining guests.
- Set up a home theater area with a large TV or projector screen, comfortable seating, and surround sound speakers.
- Design a dedicated play area for children with a play mat, toy storage, and a small table for activities.
- Install a home bar or a game room area with a pool table, dartboard, or other games.
- Create a home gym space with exercise equipment, mats, and storage for workout accessories.
- Design a reading or study area with a large bookshelf, a desk, and a comfortable reading chair or desk chair.
- Set up a yoga or meditation space with mats, cushions, and soothing decor.
- Consider using the space for indoor gardening with a large plant stand or a vertical garden system.
Useful Video: 5 design ideas for awkward corners of your home
Conclusion
If you have a small living room, don’t despair—a sectional sofa might actually be the perfect solution for your space. By measuring the room properly and utilizing the wall space, you can easily place a sectional in a way that will work well in your small living room and make it feel cozy and comfortable. So don’t hesitate to give one a try—you might be surprised at how well it works in your space. Thanks for reading!
References:
- https://www.rstbrands.com/blog/how-to-arrange-a-sectional-sofa-in-a-small-room
- https://rethority.com/how-to-place-a-sectional-in-a-small-living-room/
- https://homedecorbliss.com/how-to-place-a-sectional-in-small-living-room/
- https://www.wayfair.com/sca/ideas-and-advice/guides/how-to-measure-for-a-sectional-sofa-T1275