One living room with 5 different layouts? Can it really make a difference in how the overall room and seating area feels?
Our living room is basically a room that has kind of made me crazy since I first started trying to place the furniture. It is probably something that you haven’t noticed – I focus on the good points and details rather than what drives me crazy. But make no mistake- there are things that drive me crazy.
The Room
This is a fairly roomy room and is a wonderful size to work with for a living room space. It has a center fireplace and lots of natural light with the French doors and windows. I love the design of the room with the wood planked walls, peaked open beam ceiling and hardwood floors.
Currently- we have the dining room and living room in one room- and to be honest- the center fireplace is actually ‘center’ on one of the long sides of the room- rather than one end- and it creates a bit of a conundrum for furniture placements. This is one of the things that drives me crazy about the space being shared- because to ‘center’ the seating group around the fireplace- the seating needs to be smack dab in the middle of the room. Which doesn’t really leave much space for the dining area on one side -but leaves a lot of extra space behind the other sofa on the other side.
Honestly- the better layout of the room when they were building would have been the fireplace at one end of the long room- seating area at that end- dining at the other. But since this was originally built as a vacation house- I don’t even think the dining room as a separate area was a concern. We are actually talking about expanding a bit to create a separate area for the dining room- which would be perfection for the living room And the dining room. But until that happens- they share the space and the seating group is moved slightly off center of the fireplace.
#1. Living Room as Usual
This is how I usually have the living room furniture set up. As I mentioned I am a big symmetrical furniture kind of girl- I Love two sofas across from each other and the seating group arranged around the fireplace.
But for fun- let’s play with a few different options. Funny note- My husband kept walking in from working with the pea gravel patio install by the cottage while I was moving things and the room looked different each time he came in (and his dusty boots were leaving me all kinds of fun to clean up in between haha) He looked around each time and was a little confused as to what exactly I was doing I think – but hasn’t weighed in on which arrangement he liked best just yet but I know he is voting for chairs and making some changes. Here is a super quick idea of what the room looks like- forgive my terrible graphic skills and the placements kept moving – but you get an idea- and yes- the sofa is offset on the one side- to allow for the walkway behind/in between the table to the French doors which we use all the time
#2. Two sofas & Two chairs
Yep, I mean why not just add a couple of chairs in there to create more of a ‘U’ shape seating area? It can work- though to be honest- I would love to have less busy in the living room as far as furniture goes but I have also had this same arrangement before and did like how it felt.
* Side note- these are small side chairs (more like dining chair size) that I bought in from the cottage to show placements- we are actually shopping for a pair of cushy sink in and relax type chairs that we could add to this space. Hopefully this also shows enough of the space- my wide lens is out of commission at the moment- so showing as much as I could capture (standing in the kitchen haha)
#3. Two Sofas & Two Chairs- option 2
Also showing another option for a ‘U-shape’ layout. This makes the sofas feel more like a ‘sectional’ with one on the side and one facing the fireplace. It works with a small table in between.
This is already getting confusing, right? 2 chairs, 1 sofa, 2 sofas, 1 chair etc. 🙂 In this arrangement- the two chairs then face one sofa on the side and create a ‘u’ around the fireplace.
#4. One Sofa- Two Chairs
Of course, you could flip the sofa and 2 chairs to be on the other side as well.
#5. One Sofa -Two Chairs- 2nd way
Another way of arranging one sofa with the two chairs. This seating group has several opportunities to shift and change the layout to utilize these pieces- but as you can see- the two chairs are in place of one sofa
and then they are across from the sofa by the fireplace. We have done this before with larger ‘fireside chairs’. I love sitting by the fire so this was always a fun way to arrange the room -even with 2 sofas as well. And that is another way to do it- just a lot of furniture!
#6. More Chairs- No Sofa Or 1 Sofa
What about just 4 -6 chairs? To be completely honest, I do like a seating group with just chairs- outside I prefer this around the fire pit. Sofa’s can be cumbersome in a room sometimes- and visually, I love the idea that you can layout 4 chairs in the same symmetrical way and take up less visual space. But- this is such a large room- we would need 4- 6 pretty large cushy chairs to make the scale feel right. So it remains to be seen how the rooms will come together. But also- several chairs with just one sofa works… I don’t have an example- but found this one on Pinterest.
Others: Loveseat & seating groups
I haven’t addressed that I am not a big ‘seating group’ type of a person. I don’t love the classic seating group you can walk into a store and purchase to set up your living room. I am referring to the usual ‘Sofa, Loveseat and chair’ all in one group. Don’t hate me- but I actually don’t love a sofa and loveseat together- remember that love of symmetry? That imbalance drives me crazy.
You might notice that I also don’t have a love of sectional sofas. I have wanted to love them. I really have. I have sunken into them and cozied up while traveling and have thought they were amazing and they are great for chatting -but for my style- I haven’t found anything that I feel like would work with the look. I prefer the more traditional look.
But of course – those are both also options that you could bring in and center around the fireplace and get away with a different layout- and frankly might be easier to work with in some ways.
Most Important Consideration?
Regardless of what you style, arrangement or look you think is the ‘right’ way to arrange a room- the biggest consideration and the key is to find what works for YOU and your lifestyle And what makes you smile when you walk in the room- and then just go with it. It is your living room- you need to be happy with however you set it up and how it works best for your family.
Wrapping it up
So, there you have one living room with several different layouts that are easy to swap and change- and that show you just how versatile furniture can be. As much as I love beautiful furniture- I also love comfy furniture and love a room that is visually open and airy in layout- so that balance.
So where am I with on the quest for super comfy seating that speaks to my design sensibilities and fits my space like I would like? Well, we are looking at adding a couple of chairs that are super comfy to sink into and relax. But also as I mentioned -also looking at enclosing a porch to create a dining room area as well- which will give me the freedom to design this room differently and play up those features that I adore about it.
I hope that this quick change visual helps you to envision ideas and options for your own spaces. Which layout do you like the best?
And side note on the flowers- they are a mix leftover from various projects last week that were placed into this pot just because they needed a spot to be in water. A little unruly and wild- but love their simplicity and charm- will share a detailed arrangement shortly
We need a plan view of your room to see how everything relates together. It is hard to visualize how it all works.
I hear you! If I could get my big boys to come over at the same time and help move all the big heavy furniture out- I could show that. Last time we had a completely empty room was when we refinished the hardwood several years ago. I will see if I can find a photo to add.
I have the exact same issue wiTh my living area. My husband has teased me RELENTLESSLY about the number of couches and chairs i have tried in here. And on top of that they put our door leading to the back deck smack in the wall where we could have put furniture.
Did you arrange the flowers on coffee table? I would like info.
I did! I will do a quick video/post showing more.
For my lifestyle (and we’re all different, arent’ we?), I love the two sofas set up sectional-style and two chairs facing one sofa. It allows for a number of people to gather and visit and creates a cozy atmosphere. Chairs-only reminds me of a waiting room — and I love to curl up on a comfy sofa! Your room is beautiful in any of the arrangements. Look forward to seeing what you decide up and your new comfy chairs. Enclosing the sunporch will certainly provide another great option by moving your dining space into it.
tHAT IS MY FAV, TOO.
My vision with the sofa pieces you have across from each other and with dining table and chairs as in first pic … to me closes up the openness of the room …example…dining area one would see the back of sofa which closes in the space. i love the idea of four comfy chairs “angled” cozy in front of fireplace or … a sofa facing fireplace and a comfy chair on either side moved toward fireplace and “angled in” a bit to create a cozy U shaped conversation area.
Hi Courtney!
#2, 3 and #5 are my personal favorites for your space to create coziness and function. Honestly, the AlL look so beautiful! I love you floral arrangent and thank you for providing flower detail! I also really like the WARMTH, texture AND slight shimmer of your accent pillow shows! Can you share your source for the pillows? I really like feel of your space in that it feels cozy and inviting, but clean, simple and easy on the eye. Makes me want to come curl up and visit! 😉
You have helped me decide how to tweak my open floor plan space, thank you!!
Hi Michelle!
The pillows are a champagne velvet- found at TJMaxx. Hope that helps!
My favorite setting is having a chair on each side of the fireplace with the sofa Across from the fireplace. I love that one!
I like your playing with the placement. I have just purchaseda home with very high ceilings and lots of high windows. I am going to be challenged on how to make it feel cozy. I will be looking to see what you decide on.
Can you talk about the chairs. Style. Source for them?
The chairs are from Lamps Plus- I am not sure if they still have them-I will see if I can find them.
Yes, THANK you Courtney!
I love rearranging furniture! I hope you use glIders. The furniture movers slide under the feet of furniture, they come in carpet gliders and for hardwood floors. I can push my heavy sofa with one hand! I got mine at bed,bath and beyond but they are available several places. May you find the
“Of course, it works” moment. Your home is Beautiful.
We have scratches on the floor that have been there awhile but do have protectors on the feet for sliding (since I have been known to try to tackle moving that furniture alone often haha) they work wonders to move the pieces like the sofas and table – the antique cupboards are a different story! They require taking apart and at least two moving- the legs are not always as sturdy as they seem to be. (I found out the hard way)
I Love each and every look you’ve created … But what to do with an L-Shaped sectional with a chaise? It’s such a beast, but much loved for relaxing in front of the fire.
Oh an L shaped sectional and chaise! One of my sons has this configuration- they simply have theirs against a wall in their condo but for a similar type layout here with relaxing in front of the fire- I would probably go with the sectional facing the fireplace- and add a couple of the ‘fireside’ chairs.
Talk about nice
Haha! I know Right!!! 🤪🙌🙌💕💕💕
Courtney,
what a great subject with such good options. I’ve always had rectangular living rooms. Before sectionals, my go to was an L shaped arrangement, long sofa on long wall; then a lg round skirted table w/Lamp anchoring the corner and love seat with sofa table behind it. Once I bought a close out sectional and after a day and a half it went back! Your living room looks huge! I hope you gan give us actual dimensions since it is hard to get a sense of it’s real size. From the pictures, your sofas look to be 6-7 ft. maybe even Longer? it’s a fabulous room!
I love the two couches across from each other. To me, that is perfection. I, too, love symmetry. Courteney, I bought two of your books for my sister and I and I wanted to know what paint company you used for your office blush paint? Name of paint chip??? Your home fills me with calm, peace, and the love of beauty!! We need more of that in our world.
Courteney can you answer my above comment for me. Thanks so much! Christine
Hi Christine,
The office paint color in the book was one from awhile ago- I don’t know if I have the can to find the correct color. But Farrow and Ball has a beautiful soft pink color that might be close enough for you- I think it is called Setting Plaster- it is one I have thought about using for a refresh paint color. You could cut it in half for a softer tone as well if it is too dark for you. Hope that helps!
I like “my space”. So I like chairs. But I don’t like the look of all chairs. Lol and so when visitors come over they get the couch if I can help it lol but it’s a cushy couch so maybe they like it?? Lol I HOPE so 🤩🥰
This post was SO helpful!!! And that arrangement? It’s gorgeous!! Can’t wait for you to post that.
I too would love a picture of the room as a whole to better understand how I can hack what you’ve done here Haha!! Thanks so much, Courtney
What about end tables with LAMPS? We love to read and need the light. I think i have too any tables and chairs😩
Oh gosh- another thing I don’t have! With the three chandeliers in this room alone- and others in the entry and kitchen that spill light in- in addition to all the natural light- we just don’t use table lamps. Aside from that- old house = very few outlets per wall so I don’t have a lot of places I could place a lamp and be in close proximity to an outlet And the seating without having a lot of cord running across the floor (if that makes sense). I do have side tables- I use vintage Florentine tables, I love little ‘drink tables’ that are small and as well as natural tables such as logs- I actually just requested a few for a coffee table area from my son- he has been making tables out of them. Without seeing your set up, since you are trying to remove some lamps and tables- maybe see if you can streamline the lighting and tables to the spot where you sit and read most often?
Where did you get your coffee table? Love!
It is from French Heritage.
Love your look. I too prefer ballance, symmetry, OPENESS, natural, calm, classic.
Can you talk about your chairs?
Color and style AS related to sofa?
Source for your chairs. ?
When you use more than 2 chairs, do they all match?!
Coffee table vs. large ottoman?
Thank you I LOVE your inspiration.
The chairs are linen upholstered – more of a natural color compared to the sofa linen which is crisp white. These are from the cottage- they aren’t necessarily ones I would use here but they work – they are from Lamps Plus. If I was going to use all chairs- I would have them match and an ottoman or coffee table works- really just personal preference.
How about submitting the whole thing to Modsy and let them play around with it. They might surprise you with something you never thought of. 🙂
Fun idea! I am hoping we can enclose the porch and move the dining room soon- it would give me so many fun ways to play with the living room layout and design.
🙂
Are the white doors along side the opening to another room, just leaning against the wall or are they on barn door rails? Love them. are they antiguew doors??
Yes, they are antique. Currently leaning- but we do have a trim for rail to be able to install as barn doors.
Something I struggle with as as I admire So many beautifully decorated rooms is where is the TV? From a design perspective it seems like it’s better left out since it is not a beautiful object. But in REALITY we all have TVs dont we? How do you deal with this Courtney? Is it reliquated to a seperate room such as a FAMILY room or den or have you FOUND a way to artfully conceal it?
It definitely is a problem- and it makes me crazy to see the television out in a room. We have always had our tv inside an armoire or cupboard and recently added a Frame Tv which looks like art and doesn’t have any wiring or anything visible so that is one option. I also loved a tv idea in Paris in our hotel room- the tv was behind an antique mirror and only showed when it was on. If I could figure that one out- I would be doing that in the living room. For now- we just bring a tv or screen out to watch when we do. We don’t have a separate family room – but do have a tv in the bedroom.
Oooh! A mirrored TV! That sounds like a beautiful solution. I will definitely need to research that. Thanks Courtney!
2,4,5 but I like all of these because of how subtle but sweet your furnishings are. Personally, we usually end up going with less is more at our home. Love the beams, the French Doors, the mirrors. . . it all works.
I too am in thE market for a pair of sink-In comFy aRmchairs! Do you (Or anyone reading) have a list of contenders?
I will put a list together of what I am looking at 🙂
We have a similar living room, long and firplace on one side, not at the end… i used to have the sofas facing each other centered from the fireplace, and then on either side of the fireplace, i had two chairs. it worked for a while, but now i have two cahirs on either side of the fireplace and one long sofa across from the fireplace. it is a pain working with long rooms, isn’t it? no matter what you choose, it will look amazing! you have a lovely home and great taste!
I love Love #6
Because there is no TV you WOULDN’T need all the sofAs! You have now given me an idea🤔Thank you
I would embrace the fireplace in the center of the long wall…do Living area to one side and dining to the other…then in the middle in front of the fireplace a lovely two cozy chair grouping with a round table to stack books on…now you have a little cozy reading area