How to Style and Maximise a Small Living Room
Designing a small living room can feel like a challenge, but with the right layout and furniture choices, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and functional. At The Living House, we always begin with layout planning—it’s the foundation for unlocking your room’s full potential.
You want a space that feels open, yet cosy; practical, yet stylish. By choosing the right furniture and styling smartly, you can make a compact room feel larger, more inviting, and perfectly tailored to your needs.
Here are our top expert tips for making the most of your small living room:
1. Pull Furniture Away from the Walls
Pushing furniture right up against the walls can actually make the room feel smaller. Instead, try pulling your sofa and chairs about 15cm into the room. This creates a more intimate seating area and gives the layout a natural, breathable flow.
2. Make Use of Vertical Space
Don’t forget to look up! Tall bookcases, plants, shelving, or floor lamps help draw the eye upwards, giving the illusion of height and space. Varying furniture heights also adds interest and prevents the room from feeling flat or one-dimensional.
3. Choose Furniture with Legs
Furniture that sits directly on the floor can appear bulky. Opt for sofas and sideboards with raised legs to create a sense of space and openness. Bonus: it also makes cleaning underneath a breeze!
4. Go Big with Your Rug
Small rugs can actually make a room feel smaller. Instead, choose a larger rug that sits under the front legs of your sofa and chairs. It anchors the space, draws the eye outward, and adds that all-important cosy feel.
5. Opt for Multifunctional Pieces
Maximise your space with furniture that serves more than one purpose. A footstool with hidden storage, a tray-top ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, or a sofa with lift-up seats can keep clutter at bay while offering everyday function.
6. Consider Built-In Storage
Built-in furniture is ideal for small rooms. Alcove units, for example, can house storage cupboards below and display shelves above. Make the most of every inch, especially around awkward corners or chimney breasts, and consider integrating your TV into the design.
7. Use Mirrors Thoughtfully
Mirrors are fantastic for reflecting light and opening up the space—but placement is key. Make sure the mirror isn’t wider than the piece it sits above and reflects something you actually want to see (not clutter!).
8. Declutter & Curate
Less is more in a small room. Use stylish storage baskets to organise toys, paperwork, or blankets. Review your accessories and leave space between pieces so each one can shine without overcrowding the room.
9. Layer the Lighting
Lighting transforms a room. If table lamps take up too much space, try floor lamps or wall lights. Uplighting draws attention to the edges of the room, helping it feel larger. We love Pooky for unique statement lighting and Dunelm for budget-friendly style.