How to Fill Empty Spaces in Your Living Room: Master the Art of Home Decor
Revitalize Your Interior: Transforming Empty Spaces in the Living Room
The essence of a home lies in its living room. It’s the heart, pulsating with activity and life, embodying the spirit of those who dwell within. Yet, how often do we find ourselves staring at vacant corners or an empty space in our living room, unsure of how to fill it in a way that adds meaning and harmony?
You’re not alone. As an interior designer, I’ve walked into countless homes with clients feeling overwhelmed by their living room spaces, the hollow echoes of emptiness bouncing off their walls. Let me assure you, filling these empty spaces in your living room is not just about cramming it with furniture or decor.
Instead, it is an art, a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. An art that has the potential to transform your living room, breathing life into every empty corner and space. To fully illustrate this, I’d like to share with you my favorite 30 ideas to fill empty spaces in your living room:
- Create a Reading Nook: Transform an unused corner into a cozy reading haven with a plush corner chair, a side table for your coffee or tea, and a lamp to provide the perfect lighting. This space will become your go-to spot for escaping into your favorite stories. It’s a perfect place for some alone time and adds a unique touch to your living room.
- Gallery Wall: An empty wall is the perfect canvas to showcase your favorite artworks, photographs, or even a collection of vinyl records. A gallery wall gives a personal touch to your living room and becomes a point of conversation for guests. Plus, it’s flexible; you can always change the display as you get new art or souvenirs.
- Indoor Plants: Filling corners with tall or hanging plants can add life to your living room. Indoor plants not only add color and texture, but they also improve air quality and bring in a touch of nature, aligning with biophilic design principles. Choose from a variety of houseplants suitable for the room’s lighting conditions for the best results.
- Display Shelves: Whether it’s your book collection, travel souvenirs, or decorative knick-knacks, display shelves can exhibit your personality while filling up empty spaces. They add both functionality and aesthetics to the living room. You can experiment with different shelving designs for a unique touch.
- Bar Cart: This option brings elegance to your living room, especially if you love entertaining guests. A well-styled bar cart isn’t only functional; it’s also visually appealing and can fill an empty corner or wall. Choose a cart that matches your room’s decor and display your best spirits, cocktail mixers, and elegant bar tools.
- Room Divider: Large, open spaces can sometimes feel overwhelming. A decorative screen or bookcase can serve as a room divider, helping to define spaces without completely closing off areas. This strategy is an excellent way of creating distinct zones in your living room, like a reading area or home office.
- Console Table: Slim and stylish, a console table can fit into narrow spaces and serve various purposes. It’s a great place to display framed photos, a vase of flowers, or a pair of lamps. You can also use it for extra storage with the help of decorative baskets underneath.
- Floor Lamp: A tall floor lamp fills vertical space while adding layered lighting to your living room. Choose a lamp with a design that complements your interior, serving as a piece of art in addition to a light source. It’s an ideal option for filling in awkward corners or spaces next to furniture.
- Mini Office: If you often work from home, consider adding a small desk and chair to an empty space. This setup can help create a dedicated working zone in your living room, separating your work life from your leisure space. Add a table lamp and some small storage options to keep it tidy and functional.
- Mirrors: Mirrors are a classic way to make a room look larger and brighter by reflecting light. Hanging a large mirror on your ceiling or arranging multiple smaller ones on an empty wall can add depth and interest. Frame styles and sizes can vary to create a statement wall that reflects your personal style.
- Music Corner: If you play a musical instrument, dedicate a corner to it. Not only will this fill space, but it will also create an intriguing focal point and conversation starter. A stylish guitar stand, a piano against the wall, or even a vintage vinyl setup can add a personal touch to your living room.
- Pet Corner: Create a dedicated space for your furry friend with a stylish pet bed and storage for toys. This spot can show your pet they have a safe and personal space.
- Large Statement Art: An oversized art piece can easily fill a large wall and instantly draw the eye. This single piece of decor can set the tone for the entire room and reflect your personal style. Choose something that resonates with you – it could be a large-scale photograph, a painting, or even a tapestry.
- Accent Chairs: Add a pair of accent chairs to create an additional seating area in your living room. You could style them with a small table in between or place them on either side of a console. This not only fills space but also facilitates conversation by providing a more intimate seating arrangement.
- Hanging Chair or Swing: If you have sturdy ceiling supports, a hanging chair or swing can be a playful addition. It’s a fun, cozy spot to read or relax, and it’s sure to catch the eye. Make sure it’s securely installed and don’t forget to add cushions for comfort.
- Window Seat: If you have a large window, consider building a window seat. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy the view, read, or simply relax. Add a plush cushion and some throw pillows for a cozy touch.
- Sideboard or Buffet Table: A sideboard can fill a large wall while providing extra storage and a surface for display. It can hold everything from dinnerware to media equipment. Style it with lamps, art, or a mirror above it for a completed look.
- Vanity or Dressing Table: If your living room connects to a bedroom or bathroom, a stylish vanity or dressing table can fill an empty space. It adds functionality and offers an area for personal grooming or make-up application. Choose a design that matches your room’s aesthetic and keep it neat with beautiful organizers.
- Meditation or Yoga Corner: Create a serene spot dedicated to meditation, yoga, or other calming practices. All you need is a comfortable mat, a couple of cushions, and maybe a few calming elements like candles or an essential oil diffuser. It’s a positive way to fill space and encourage wellness at home.
- Ladder Shelf: Ladder shelves are a trendy and functional way to fill an empty space. They can house anything from books and photos to indoor plants and decorative objects. They also add a sense of height and dimension to the room.
- Poufs or Ottoman: These versatile pieces can fill a void and provide extra seating, act as footrests, or serve as makeshift tables with a tray on top. They come in numerous designs, colors, and materials to match any decor style.
- Decorative Screen: An ornate or colorful screen can add personality and fill up large spaces. It can also serve as a backdrop for other furniture or be used to create a private corner in the room.
- Wall Mural or Wallpaper: Cover an empty wall with a wall mural or patterned wallpaper for an instant makeover. This approach makes a bold statement and can change the feel of the entire room.
- Children’s Play Corner: If you have young children, designate a corner for their playtime activities. Install low shelves for their toys and books, and lay down a comfortable rug for them to sit on. This gives them their own space within the communal area and keeps their belongings organized.
- Media Center: If you have a lot of media equipment, consider a custom-built media center. This piece can house your television, sound system, game console, and media collection in a neat and stylish way.
- Built-in Cabinets: These provide a clean and tailored look while offering plenty of storage space. You can display personal items on the open shelves and hide clutter behind the doors.
- Game Table: A small game table can offer a cozy and interactive spot for family and friends. Whether it’s for chess, checkers, or card games, this can encourage social interaction and fun within your living room. Moreover, with a beautifully crafted table, it can also serve as a striking piece of furniture when not in use.
- Wall-Mounted Desk: This is an ideal solution if you’re working with limited floor space. A wall-mounted desk or floating shelf can provide a minimal and clean work surface without occupying much room. Pair it with a stylish stool that can be tucked away when not in use.
- Bicycle Rack: If you live in a small apartment and need to store your bicycle indoors, a wall-mounted bike rack could be the solution. It not only clears floor space but also turns your bicycle into a piece of wall art. Choose a rack that complements your decor style.
- Fireplace Setup: If you have an unused fireplace, fill it creatively. You could place candles for a faux-fire effect, install a piece of art, or even arrange a stack of logs for a rustic look. This approach can convert an empty fireplace into a beautiful focal point.
The journey of transforming your living room is a personal and creative process, an opportunity to express your unique style and taste. It’s about designing a space that is a reflection of you – your stories, your experiences, your life.
So, go on, experiment with colors and patterns, play with light and shadow, fill your spaces with objects and elements that are meaningful to you. After all, your living room isn’t just a room; it’s a canvas where you create your art, the art of home decor.
Like what you see? Check out my Portfolio & work with me or any Havenly designer, & spruce up your home with Havenly, the platform that has revolutionized online interior design since 2013! Offering online interior design services & home decor from the best online interior designers at an affordable price! Take 25% off your first design TODAY!
1. Navigating the Vast Expanse: What to Do with Empty Space in the Middle of Your Room
The empty space in the middle of your room can feel like uncharted territory, a vast expanse that feels overwhelmingly open and undefined. But don’t be intimidated! Instead, envision it as a blank canvas offering limitless possibilities to display your individual style. You could set up an inviting conversation area by anchoring the space with a large, plush area rug, arranging a cozy sofa and some armchairs around a coffee table.
The addition of a movable piece of furniture, like a bar cart, can introduce a fun and functional element into the room. Perfect for both storage and entertaining, it allows you to adapt to the needs of the moment, filling the empty space without committing to a fixed layout.
It’s not only about physically filling the space—it’s also about creating an atmosphere. Try incorporating elements of biophilic design by placing indoor plants around the space. The greenery will bring a touch of nature indoors, offering a sense of serenity and filling the room with life.
2. From Bare to Beautiful: How to Fill an Empty Corner in Your Living Room
Empty corners in the living room can sometimes feel like awkward gaps within our interior design vision. But these corners are actually hidden gems, offering unique opportunities to add depth and character to our living spaces.
One effective way to fill an empty corner is to create a cozy reading nook. A comfortable armchair, a small side table, and a standing lamp can instantly transform an unused corner into your personal retreat. Add a cozy throw blanket, and you’ve got the perfect spot to curl up with a good book or a cup of coffee on a rainy afternoon.
Plants can also work wonders in empty corners. Large indoor plants, like a fiddle leaf fig or a monstera, can fill an empty corner while adding a refreshing touch of nature to your living room. You could also consider a multi-tiered plant stand if you’re a bona fide plant enthusiast, turning that empty corner into your personal indoor garden. The organic shapes and varying heights of the plants will visually fill the space and breathe life into the room.
3. Tackling the Challenge: Strategies for Filling Awkward Spaces in Your Home
Awkward spaces in the home can be a challenge, but with a little creativity, they can become unique features that enhance your interior design. Under-stair spaces, for example, often go unused. However, they can be transformed into a practical area with a bit of clever thinking.
This could be a compact home office with a small desk and chair or a cozy reading nook with built-in shelves for your favorite books. The functionality of such spaces can make them feel anything but awkward. When it comes to long, narrow hallways, they can be visually broadened with the use of mirrors. Not only do mirrors fill the space, but they also reflect light and give the illusion of a wider area.
Incorporating a slim console table with a couple of table lamps or a row of wall-mounted sconces could also break up the long wall and provide both light and visual interest. For the floor, a long, narrow runner will help delineate the space and make it feel more inviting.
4. Beyond Blank Walls: Creative Ways to Fill Up Empty Wall Space in Your Living Room
An empty wall in the living room can feel like a daunting expanse, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to let your creativity shine. One way to fill up this space is to create a gallery wall. Mix different sizes, shapes, and styles of frames and artwork that reflect your personality.
You could include family photos, prints of favorite paintings, or even memorabilia. The variety of colors and textures will make the wall come alive and reflect your personal style. If you’re a lover of books, consider installing a full-wall bookshelf. Not only does this fill up the wall, but it also provides functional storage and creates a stunning visual.
The colors and shapes of the books will naturally create a varied and eye-catching display. Add a ladder for reaching the top shelves, and you’ve got yourself a home library that’s both beautiful and functional. Another option is to use the wall for a large statement piece, like a massive painting or a tapestry.
5. From Sparse to Spectacular: How to Fill Empty Space in Your Dining Room
The dining room is more than just a place to eat—it’s a place where family and friends gather, stories are shared, and memories are made. So, it’s essential to make it feel warm and inviting. If you find yourself with a vast, empty wall in your dining room, consider installing floating shelves.
Another great way to fill an empty space in the dining room is by adding a sideboard or a credenza. This functional piece of furniture offers extra storage for dining essentials and also serves as a surface for a buffet-style meal or a bar area when entertaining. On top, you can place a couple of table lamps, a mirror, or artwork to visually fill up the space and make it look stylish.
Lastly, if your dining room is spacious enough, consider creating a small lounging area. A couple of comfy armchairs and a small coffee table in the corner can create a cozy spot for pre or post-dinner conversation. It can serve as a transition space between the dining area and the living area, making your dining room multi-functional and inviting.
Final Thoughts
Interior design isn’t just about choosing a style or color scheme, it’s about transforming spaces, filling empty corners, and creating environments that reflect who you are and how you live. Whether you’re dealing with an awkward corner in your bedroom or trying to figure out how to fill empty space in your living room, every room in your home offers unique opportunities for creative expression.
Starting with the living room, the heart of every home, a great way to fill the space is by creating a focal point. Perhaps you have a large wall that feels daunting and unadorned. A way to fill this space is to consider hanging beautiful artwork or a large mirror to create a sense of depth and interest. Not only does this adorn your wall, but it also enhances the overall appeal of your living area.
Incorporating pet-friendly elements can also be an exciting and functional way to fill spaces. A pet-friendly sofa or chair doesn’t only cater to your furry friends, but can also serve as a comfortable and stylish addition to your living room. For smaller empty spaces, consider a pet-friendly coffee table with storage space for toys and supplies.
The key to filling up spaces in any room is to make it feel balanced and harmonious. This is where the concepts of symmetry and asymmetry in interior design come into play. Balance can be achieved by strategically placing furniture and decor that complement each other in color, size, or design. Be it through a well-arranged L-shaped sofa, a reclining chair for comfort, or even through the innovative arrangement of two sofas, the potential of shapes and forms in interior design is limitless.
Embrace the beauty of biophilic design by adding plants to your decor. They not only fill up space but also bring in a touch of nature, creating a calm and soothing environment. For an empty wall over your couch, mounting a TV without drilling holes can be a space-saving and stylish solution.
When it comes to your bedroom, it’s all about making the room feel cozy and personalized. Add a touch of personality and elegance to your side table with a photo frame or an ornate lamp. For a more dramatic effect, consider highlighting your room with artificial light or accentuating natural light.
In the end, it’s all about you. Filling up empty spaces in your home is a personal journey, one that is a direct reflection of your lifestyle, taste, and personality. From an inspired game room to a pet-friendly living area, a tranquil reading nook to an elegant dining room, every room, every corner, every empty space is an opportunity for you to create, express, and transform.
Fill Empty Spaces in Your Living Room – FAQ
1. What are some creative ideas on how to fill empty space in my living room without cluttering it?
One way to fill an empty space in your living room is to bring in some indoor plants. These can not only fill up space but also provide a refreshing atmosphere. Adding a console table with a few decor items can create a beautiful vignette without overwhelming the room.
2. I have an empty corner in my living room that seems awkward. How can I make it more inviting and functional?
An awkward corner in your living room can be transformed into a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair, a small side table, and a floor lamp. Adding a mirror can also make the corner appear larger and more inviting.
3. How can I utilize the empty space in my small apartment to make my living room feel larger?
In small apartments, mirrors are a fantastic way to create the illusion of more space. They reflect light and make your living room appear larger. You can also make use of multi-functional furniture, like an ottoman with storage or a coffee table with shelves.
4. My living room has a lot of room space. What are some tips to fill it in a way that adds to the overall decor?
When your living room has a lot of space, consider creating different zones, like a reading corner, a lounging area, or even a small home office section. Use area rugs to visually separate these areas. Large artwork or gallery walls can also fill up the wall space without making the room feel cluttered.
5. What type of furniture would be best to fill an empty space in a modern living room?
In a modern living room, minimalistic furniture with clean lines works well. Think of a mid-century style coffee table or a sleek sideboard. Floating shelves can also be a great way to display decor and fill up space on the walls.
6. I’m redesigning my living room and want to maximize the use of space. Do you have any house plans or layouts that can help?
Yes, interior design platforms like Wayfair offer plenty of inspiration and guides to help you plan your living room layout. You can also explore various house plans online to find a layout that best fits your style and the space’s dimensions.
7. I have a lot of wall space in my living room, but I don’t want to fill it with just pictures. What else can I use?
Consider a mix of wall decor elements, like mirrors, floating shelves, and wall-mounted plants. You can also create a feature wall with textured paint or wall decals.
8. What are some budget-friendly ways to fill an empty corner in my living room?
Budget-friendly ways to fill an empty corner can include thrifted furniture finds, DIY decor projects, or repurposing items you already have. You could create a photo gallery, install floating shelves for displaying books or decor, or add a floor plant.
9. My living room feels too open. How can I fill the spaces to make it feel cozier and more home-like?
To make an open living room feel cozier, consider adding an area rug to define the space. You could also add some throw pillows and blankets to your sofa or chairs. Indoor plants, warm lighting, and personal mementos can also help to create a homely feel.
10. How can I incorporate plants into my living room to fill up space and bring more life into the room?
You can use plants in a variety of ways to fill up space in your living room. Large indoor plants can fill up corners, small plants can sit on side tables or shelves, and hanging plants can add interest to your room without taking up floor space.
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.
Click here if you want to learn more about Havenly or book an interior designer and get 25% off your design package if you click here!
