Rethinking the Layout
In both modern apartments and homes styled for farmhouse charm, arranging decor and furniture in a tight space can seem counterintuitive. Before you begin decorating, take stock of the room’s existing layout. Note which areas are underused and which seats are always occupied. Then think about how you can organize the space to be as open as possible. Pushing sofas and armchairs against the walls is a common instinct, but outlining the room’s boundaries in this way can make it feel smaller. Instead, create a focal point in the room and accessorize around this for a more open layout. For example, consider placing a classic loveseat and a small coffee table in the room’s center. Then, arrange decor and accessories around this focal point. Lay a centerpiece bowl on the coffee table, and accent the sofa with throw pillows in chic designs. To create a bold look, skip the sofa entirely and position two armchairs near a bay window. For a side-table alternative, set a serving tray on top of a pouf to securely store coasters, candles and books. Try visualizing design options in your head. How would a wall mirror look across from the mantle? What if the couch were near the window? Keep in mind that rearranging the layout regularly helps keep your living room looking fresh.
Scale, Color and the Illusion of Space
Every new piece of decor for your small living room should serve to expand the space. So, think big. For example, oversized rugs have a widening effect. Find rugs that feel like they were made just for your living room, or go a step further and design one yourself.Floor-to-ceiling curtains make the room feel taller, too. Let natural light in with curtains in lightweight, breezy fabrics such as linen. While some decor is easy to modify seasonally, such as decorative pillows and botanicals, it’s best to let rugs, curtains and other bigger accessories serve as a neutral backdrop. Alternatively, draw the eye up with curtains in vibrant hues such as teal or mustard—a pop of vivid color brightens the room. Long, curling vines potted in hanging planters draw focus upward as well. Look for geometric hanging planters if your style is more contemporary, or opt for a rustic clay planter for a more traditional aesthetic.
Lighten Up
Illuminate your small living room with lighting options that make the most of smaller spaces. As with curtains and hanging planters, hanging pendant lights help to pull the eye upward. Opt for pendant lamps or chandeliers that sit closer to the ceiling for high-traffic areas, and coordinate with wall sconces for a unified look. An alternative to lamps, wall sconces free up table and floor space for seating, storage and more. Set a wide wall mirror across from your sconces to both reflect light and expand the space. Oversized shades on a table or floor lamp can make an area feel smaller. Instead, look for a glass lamp or one with a thin silhouette, and place on a small side table for a cozy reading nook.
Off-the-Wall Decor
In homes where square footage is at a premium, think vertical and create a gallery wall. Instead of arranging displays in the usual spots—coffee tables, accent tables, sideboards—utilize floating shelves and hanging decor. On the wall behind the sofa or above the mantle, hang framed family photos, art prints and accent mirrors. Install a few floating shelves near the window, and place a small vase or succulent planter here. Switch around your gallery wall seasonally, displaying this year’s holiday card instead of the traditional family photo or arranging fresh-cut spring blooms in a miniature vase. Keep in mind that nothing should stop the path of the eye as it travels through the room. It’s okay if your focus is drawn to a framed mirror or a painting, but if you find yourself focusing on a cluttered bookshelf or an arrangement of picture frames that feels a bit off, consider reorganizing your gallery wall.
After you’re done redecorating, invite a few friends over to marvel at your new living room look. Get creative and find new ways to make the most of your furniture, decor and lighting. Share your small living room decorating ideas using the hashtag #CrateStyle.
