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How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room – 9 Tips and Tricks 

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How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

Meet the Author and Your Future Designer: Julio Arco is a passionate architect with years of experience in architecture, interior design, urban design, and housing. He studied at prestigious universities across North America and Europe. 

 

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How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

Furniture in Awkward Living Room Layouts – Introduction Video

Anyone who has attempted to arrange furniture in an awkwardly shaped living room knows the unique challenges of the task. Whether dealing with sharp edges, slanted walls, or awkward nooks and crannies, fitting everything into a small or oddly shaped living room can be daunting.

Having a tidy and functional layout in an awkward living room is essential for creating a comfortable and inviting space. According to research published in PLOS One, “tidiness is positively related to psychological well-being.” This means that an organized living room can help reduce stress and anxiety while improving your mood. 

Additionally, a study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that clutter can lead to feelings of frustration and overwhelm, which can have a negative impact on your mental health. Creating a functional layout for an awkward living room can be challenging. Still, there are several strategies you can use to make the most of the space. 

For example, choosing furniture that can be moved easily allows you to rearrange the layout as needed. Additionally, zoning off areas with rugs or dividers helps create distinct spaces within the room without taking up too much space. 

Finally, utilizing vertical space by adding shelves or hanging artwork can help maximize storage without making the room feel cramped. Finally, it’s important to remember that having a tidy and functional layout isn’t just about aesthetics – it also has an impact on your mental health. 

As research published in MDPI suggests, “the physical environment of our home affects our emotional state and behavior,” so it’s important to create an organized living space that promotes relaxation and comfort. With these tips in mind, you can create a beautiful and functional layout for any awkward living room! 

However, there are ways to overcome these challenges and create a functional and stylish living space. One way to deal with unique forms is to choose furniture that can be easily rearranged. Modular sofas and chairs, for example, can be reconfigured to fit a variety of different spaces.

Another option is to use smaller pieces of furniture, such as coffee tables and side chairs, which can be moved around as needed. Suppose you’re working with an especially small or cramped living room. In that case, keeping your color palette light and airy is also essential.

Light colors help to make a space feel larger and more open, while dark colors can make it feel small and intimate. Finally, it’s always helpful to get some expert input when arranging furniture in an awkwardly shaped living room.

You can hire a professional interior designer at Havenly who can offer valuable insights and ideas for how to make the most of your unique space. Having said that, here are some tips and tricks for arranging furniture in an awkwardly shaped living room.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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What Exactly Is An “Awkward” Living Room?

Living rooms come in all shapes and sizes, but what exactly makes a living room “awkward?” An awkward living room is usually defined by its unusual shape or size. A small living room might seem cramped, while a long and narrow living room might be difficult to decorate.

Even though the living area is pretty spacious, a room with unusual architectural or odd proportions, such as an alcove or diagonal walls, might seem challenging to design and place furniture in.

However, an odd living space is not always a negative thing! It nevertheless provides lots of creative alternatives for designing a nice environment to enjoy with your friends and family. With a little bit of ingenuity, you can turn an awkward living room into a stylish and inviting space.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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Tips And Tricks For Arranging Furniture in Awkward Living Rooms

Living in an awkward living room can be a challenge – especially when it comes to decorating and arranging furniture. However, there are ways to make the most of your space and create a comfortable and inviting living area.

With a little creativity, you can turn your living room into a cozy and functional space that you’ll love spending time in. Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of an awkward living room:

1- Select Light and easily Moved furniture, especially Sofas and Chairs

If you’re working with an awkward living room layout, there are a few Furniture pieces that can make the space much more livable. First, select furniture that is light and easily moved; this will give you the most flexibility in terms of decorating and rearranging the space.

Armchairs, ottomans, and smaller couches are all good options. Additionally, modular furniture can be a great choice for Living Rooms; if you need more seating, simply add another component to your sofa. 

And finally, don’t forget about end tables! These provide functionality and can help fill any Awkward empty spaces in your Living Room.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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2.- Place your Sofa Strategically in your Space

There are many easy ways to make your living room look its best. One way is to place your furniture strategically. If you have an oddly shaped living room or not much wall space, try placing your furniture away from the walls.

You create a cozier space with an intimate sitting area by positioning the sofa in front of the television, window, or bookshelf. And you also free up the wall for shelves or other storage.

Another way to make your living room look great is to choose a focal point. Whether it’s a fireplace, a piece of art, or a window, focus your design around that one thing. And finally, make sure there’s enough seating for everyone. You don’t want your guests to be standing around awkwardly in your living room.

3.- Take your Time to Select the Appropriate Sofa

Furnishings play a big role in the overall feel of a room, and choosing the right sofa is essential to creating the perfect living space.

There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a sofa for your living room. First, consider the size of the room. A large couch will feel overwhelming in a small space, while a small couch will get lost in a large room.

Second, think about the shape of the room. An L-shaped couch is great for a long, narrow room, while a pit sofa would be ideal for a large, open space.

Lastly, consider your personal style. Do you prefer traditional or contemporary furniture? Do you want something bold and eye-catching or subdued and understated?

Once you’ve considered these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect sofa for your living room.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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4.- Arrange your furniture in a Simple yet Functional Layout

When furnishing a living room, it can be tempting to try to fill up every bit of space. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is play to the room’s strengths – which might be its unique layout or interesting features.

An awkwardly shaped living room, for example, might be better off with fewer pieces of furniture arranged in a more functional way. And a living room with an interesting design might be best served by keeping the furnishings and decor simple. This way, the room can speak for itself.

In any case, when it comes to interior design, it’s important to keep the purpose of the room in mind. A Living room is typically a space for relaxation and entertaining, so it’s important to create a space that is both comfortable and stylish.

5.- Defined Zones in your Awkward Living Room

Many people struggle with how to arrange their furniture or what kind of decor to use in order to make their living room feel more inviting and comfortable. A great way to start is by delineating defined zones in your living room space.

This means creating distinct areas for different activities, such as a reading nook with a corner chair, a television viewing area, or a conversation area. You can do this by using area rugs, furniture placement, and different kinds of decor.

For example, you might place a couch facing away from the dining table and add chairs across from the sofa to create a conversational area. Then, you might add a rug and a reading lamp to create a cozy reading nook.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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6.- Create a Standout Focal Point when Decorating

By creating a focal point, you’ll draw the eye across the space and can really make a difference in how the room looks and feels. You can create a standout focal point in your living room in a few different ways.

One option is to paint one wall a different color. This can be a great way to add some visual interest to the space and can really help to brighten things up. Another option is to hang a piece of artwork or a mirror on one wall. This will help create a focal point while adding some personality to the space.

If you have an awkward space in your living room, don’t try to hide it. Embrace it and use it to your advantage. You can use furniture or decor to make the most of the space and really make it your own.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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7.- Make Use of Accents in your Favor

There are plenty of ways to make use of Accents in your Favor to turn your living room into a space you’re proud to show off.

For starters, take a look at your Living Room’s existing features. Is there an exposed brick wall you’ve wanted to show off? Or an unusual fireplace tile that you think could be used as part of a larger design scheme?

Whatever the case may be, don’t be afraid to use these Accents in your Favor when it comes to decorating your Living Room. Sometimes the most unusual features can make for the most exciting and unique design schemes.

Another way to make use of Accents in your Favor is by choosing furniture that highlights them. If you have an awkwardly shaped Living Room, for example, try arranging your furniture in a way that makes the most of the space you have.

Or, if you have an exposed brick wall, consider painting it a bright color to really make it stand out. No matter your Living Room’s challenges, there’s sure to be a way to use Accents in your Favor to turn it into the perfect space for entertaining guests, relaxing with family, or simply enjoying some peace and quiet at home. 

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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8.- Clear Pathways and Doors

One of the most important things to consider is the flow of the room. You want your guests to be able to move around freely without feeling cramped or awkward. The best way to achieve this is by removing any unnecessary furniture and placing smaller pieces in strategic areas.

For example, you might put a coffee table in the middle of the room to create a gathering space or use an end table to define the boundary between the living room and dining room. 

9.- Consider a Circular Design if Possible

When it comes to decorating your living room, you want to make sure that the space is both comfortable and stylish. One way to achieve this is by arranging your furniture in a circular pattern.

This can help to make the most of an awkward space and create an inviting area for close conversations. If you have enough room, you can even leave a space in the middle for a coffee table.

Less furniture can also be used to create a circular shape, so don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of space to work with. If a full circle isn’t possible, consider a semi-circle arrangement instead.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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How to Arrange Furniture in an Uncomfortable Living Room Using Free Floor Plans

Long and Narrow Living Room Layout

Living in a home with an awkwardly shaped living room can be difficult to decorate. When you have a long and narrow space, it is important to make sure that the furniture and decor you choose don’t make the room feel even smaller.

One way to do this is to choose chairs and couches that aren’t as deep. Club chairs are a great option because they are comfortable without taking up a lot of space. You can also place a small side table next to each chair instead of using one large coffee table. 

Reducing clutter in a long and narrow living room is also crucial. Don’t try to fill up the space; this will actually make it seem smaller and more cluttered. Instead, leave some white space so the room can breathe.

However, one advantage of having a long living room is that you can create separate zones within the space. For example, you could have a reading corner, a comfortable chair, and your favorite books. Or, you could set up a game area with a table and some chairs. You can make the most of your space by creating different areas within your living room. 

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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Small Living Room Layout

Small living room layouts can be a bit tricky, but with some care and attention, it is possible to create a beautiful and welcoming space. The key is to choose furniture that is both functional and stylish.

For example, an ottoman with internal storage can serve as both a place to rest your feet and an extra spot for guests to sit. Additionally, mirrors and glass coffee tables can help to make the space seem larger.

L-Shaped Living Room Layout

When it comes to arranging furniture in an L-shaped living room, the key is to create a sense of flow and consistency. This can be done by using similar colors and patterns throughout the space. The goal is to make the room feel open and inviting rather than closed off and formal.

One way to achieve this is to arrange the furniture more relaxed. This means leaving plenty of room to move about so that you can easily travel from one area of the room to another. It also creates a more dynamic and interesting space rather than one that feels static and awkward. 

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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Angled Fireplace Design

Angled fireplaces can be tricky to design around, especially if you want your living room to be cozy and inviting. One option is to ignore the fireplace and arrange your furniture as if it weren’t there.

This works well if you don’t plan on using the fireplace much or if you have a contemporary home without a traditional living room setup. Another option is to make the fireplace the room’s focal point and arrange the furniture around it.

This can create a more cozy and intimate space, particularly if you don’t watch TV much. It’s also easier to connect with people when everyone is gathered around the fireplace instead of another screen. However, avoid positioning your furniture directly against the fireplace. That will take up too much of your valuable space and make it difficult to move around. 

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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Narrow Rectangular Shape Layout

One way to make the most of a small living room is to choose slim and space-efficient furniture. A corner couch is a great option for maximizing the seating area without taking up too much floor space. Additionally, custom or slim-fit shelving can be a great way to make use of otherwise unused space.

When it comes to decorating a small living room, less is often more. Keep things simple and clean to avoid clutter and maximize the feeling of space. Use Light colors on walls and furniture to help create the illusion of a larger room. And finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your use of space – think outside the box to find new ways to make your small living room work for you.

Split-Level Living Room Layout

If you have a split-level living room in your home, you know that it can be a bit awkward to design and decorate. You have two distinct spaces that you need to furnish and keep cohesive, and you also have to figure out what to do about the steps. If you put any furniture too close to them, it could create a safety hazard.

One way to approach this is to create separate zones on each level. For example, you could have a dining space on one level and a sitting area on the other. However, there should be some similarities between the two areas so they don’t feel too disjointed. To do this, you can use similar furniture pieces and stick to an overall color palette.

For example, you could use dark wood pieces for your dining table and chairs and then infuse the same aesthetic into your split-level living area with a wooden coffee table.

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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Pitched Roof Living Room Layout

If you have a pitched roof living room, the sloping ceilings can make it feel awkward and tough to know how to arrange your furniture. Here are some tips for making the most of your space.

Start by putting your taller pieces in the middle of the walls. That way, they’ll be the tallest things in the room and won’t be competing with the slope of the ceiling. Then, use the space under the sloped roof to create a cozy little sitting area.

Just be careful not to bang your head when you get up! With some design finesse, your pitched roof living room can be stylish and comfortable.

Open Floor Plan Layout

When it comes to open-plan living, you should keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, you want to ensure that your furniture is arranged in a visually appealing and functional way.

You don’t want your space to feel too cramped or cluttered, but you also don’t want it to look like a museum. A good rule of thumb is to keep the furniture in close proximity to each other so that people can easily move around the space.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider the flow of traffic when arranging your furniture. You don’t want people to walk through your living room to get to the kitchen, for example.

Another important thing to keep in mind when decorating an open-plan space is the overall design of your home. You’ll want to choose colors and furnishings that complement the existing style of your home. 

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room – FAQ

Where can I source furniture for an awkward living room?

You can hire an interior designer at Havenly who can help you in sourcing furniture and design your living room, even if it is awkwardly shaped!

How do you lay out furniture in awkward rooms?

In certain cases, rearranging the furniture in a room to make it more square or rectangular might help disguise its irregular form. A room divider may be as simple as an open shelf unit into which carefully selected artifacts, books, and even crates can be included.

How do you style an awkward living room layout?

You can start by finding the room’s focal point, which could be a fireplace, a large window, or even a built-in shelving unit. Once you’ve found your focal point, you can then arrange your furniture around it. 

Try to keep the furniture close together so that the room feels cohesive, and put any larger pieces of furniture against the walls to create more space. Use smaller pieces, like end tables and coffee tables, to fill in any gaps and create a more balanced look. Finally, add some personal touches, like throw pillows or a cozy blanket, to make the room feel more inviting.

How do you arrange furniture in a weird room?

Suppose you are looking to learn how to arrange living room furniture. In that case, there’s no one answer to this question since every living room is different and therefore has different furniture arrangement challenges. However, a few tips can help you figure out how to arrange furniture in an awkward living room.

First, take a look at the shape of the room and determine where the best focal point is. Once you have a focal point, you can arrange furniture around it in a way that makes sense for the room. For example, suppose you have a fireplace as your focal point. In that case, you might want to arrange your furniture in a semi-circle around it.

Another tip for arranging furniture in an awkward living room is to ensure a clear path through the room. You don’t want your furniture arrangements to create a situation where people have to walk around or over furniture to get from one side of the room to the other.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your furniture arrangements. If you’re struggling to figure out how to arrange furniture in an awkward living room, it’s okay to experiment and see what works best for the space.

How do you furnish a long and narrow living room?

There are a few things to consider when furnishing a long and narrow living room. First, you’ll want to ensure that the furniture is arranged in a way that allows easy movement around the room.

You’ll also want to avoid placing too much furniture in one area, as this can make the room feel cramped and cluttered. Instead, try to balance the furniture by placing larger pieces in the middle of the room and smaller pieces along the sides. Finally, be sure to use Light and airy colors throughout the room to help make it feel more spacious. 

How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

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How to Arrange Furniture in an Awkward Living Room

Hire an Online Interior Designer at Havenly

There are several online interior design websites, but Havenly is your best option to hire from a robust list of interior designers that will help you in decorating and creating the perfect dog-friendly home. 

When you sign up for Havenly, you will take a short quiz about your design style and what you are looking for in a designer. Havenly will then match you with a designer who will help you select paint colors, furniture, and accessories that are both stylish and safe for your furry friend.

In addition, your Havenly designer will be able to provide tips on how to create a space that is both comfortable for your dog and inviting for guests. With Havenly, creating a beautiful and functional home that your dog will love is easy and stress-free.

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M.Arch. Julio Arco
M.Arch. Julio Arco

Bachelor of Architecture - ITESM University
Master of Architecture - McGill University
Architecture in Urban Context Certificate - LDM University
Interior Designer - Havenly
Architecture Professor - ITESM University

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