Maximizing Your Living Room Space: Free Advice for Furniture Choice and Layout
Dealing with a challenging living room space can be frustrating, but fear not! There are plenty of free tools and strategies available to help you optimize your living room. Furniture retailers often offer virtual programs that allow you to visualize your space using their products. These programs have been around since the 1990s, so you can be confident in their reliability.
If you find these virtual tools too complex or uncomfortable to use, you can always opt for the low-tech solution of using life-sized templates made from junk mail or newspapers. By laying these templates on the actual floor, you can easily see how different furniture arrangements would work in your living room.
Important Considerations for Your Living Room Design
When planning your living room, there are several key factors to consider to ensure it is both functional and visually appealing. These include:
Clear Open Space for Mobility
Make sure to leave enough clear space for crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs to move around safely. It's essential to have enough room for anyone who may need to navigate the space with these accommodations.
Turn Around Space
Ensure that there is sufficient space for individuals to turn around, especially if they use mobility aids. This can be a critical aspect in creating a safe and comfortable environment.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Consider the layout and arrangement of furniture to ensure it is easy to use and clean. For example, placing heavy furniture close to walls can help prevent dust and mess accumulation.
Multipurpose Furniture
Opt for furniture that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, a storage ottoman can double as a coffee table and provide extra storage space.
Storage and Display Areas
Include designated areas for both storage and display. A bookshelf might be perfect for storing books while also making a stylish addition to the room.
Conversation Areas
Consider creating different conversation areas within the room. This can be achieved by arranging seating in clusters or placing a sofa opposite a comfortable armchair.
To start visualizing your living room, measure the dimensions of the room and draw a graph paper layout. Mark important areas such as doors, windows, heating ducts, and electrical outlets. Cut out the graph paper to represent the size of the furniture you already own. Experiment with different designs and configurations to find the one that works best for you.
Utilizing Room Colors and Elements
To unify the room and make it visually appealing, consider the colors already present. Use curtains, drapes, pillows, and paintings to complement the existing colors and create a cohesive look. A common-sense approach is to use a color wheel to identify complementary colors.
Create a landing zone as you enter the room from the outside. This area can be used to place things you bring in and out of the living area. You might want to place an armoire or a small closet near the exit for storage of outdoor gear. A designated spot for wet boots and coats can also be practical.
Choosing the Right Table for Your Space
Round tables are generally safer than square ones, as they reduce the "bumping into corners" factor. However, round storage tables can serve as multifunctional pieces, perfect for storing games, pillows, or afghans. These tables are often square or rectangle in shape.
If you want specific advice or opinions on your living room layout, consider sharing a picture here or on social media. You might receive several different opinions, including mine, for free. Best of luck in your living room planning journey!