Ten Living Room Layouts That Make Small Spaces Feel Generous
Clever furniture placement beats square footage every time.
By Elena RossiHome Editor
Square footage matters less than you think. In a small living room, the way furniture is arranged has more effect on how the space feels than its actual size.
We asked three interior designers for the layouts they rely on, and tested several in our own homes.
Float the sofa
Pulling the sofa a few inches from the wall creates breathing room and makes the room feel deliberate. A slim console behind it adds useful surface space.
Go leggy
Furniture raised on legs lets light travel across the floor, which makes the room appear larger. Avoid heavy, skirted pieces.
Use one large rug
A rug large enough for the front legs of every seat unifies the space. Small rugs chop the floor into pieces and shrink the room.
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