If you have a long, narrow living room, it can sometimes feel challenging to create a functional and visually appealing space. However, with the right layout and design choices, you can make your narrow room feel larger and more open. In this article, we will provide 10 essential design rules to help you achieve just that.
The first rule is to consider the size and placement of your windows. Natural light can make a space feel larger, so try to maximize the amount of light coming through your windows. If possible, keep them unobstructed by furniture or heavy window treatments. You can also use mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space.
Another important rule is to choose the right furniture for your space. Opt for pieces that are proportionate to the size of your room. While oversized sofas and chairs may be comfortable, they can overwhelm a narrow room. Instead, opt for sleek and streamlined furniture that won’t take up too much visual space.
When it comes to layout, consider placing your furniture against the walls. This will create a better flow and open up the middle of the room. Keep in mind that it’s important to leave enough space to move around comfortably. If you have a dining area in your long living room, try using a glass or transparent dining table to visually open up the space.
Lastly, consider the color scheme and lighting in your long living room. Lighter shades and cool tones can make a space feel larger and more airy. Incorporate plenty of lighting options, such as recessed lights or floor lamps, to create a well-lit space. Avoid using dark or heavy colors on the walls, as they can make the room feel smaller and more closed-in.
Incorporating these design rules into your long living room can help create a more open and inviting space that feels larger than it actually is. By considering the layout, furniture, lighting, and color scheme, you can transform your narrow room into a place that feels spacious and welcoming.
1 Keep a long living room clutter free
A clutter-free living room is the first step in making a narrow space seem wider. By keeping the room tidy and organized, you create a sense of spaciousness and openness. Here are some essential design rules to help you keep your long living room clutter-free:
- Declutter regularly: Get rid of items you don’t need or use anymore. Consider donating or selling them to keep your living room clutter-free.
- Use storage solutions: Invest in furniture that provides ample storage space, such as ottomans, coffee tables with drawers, and bookshelves. These will help you keep your belongings organized and out of sight.
- Minimize furniture: Stick to the essentials and avoid overcrowding the space with too much furniture. Choose pieces that are proportionate to the size of the room and consider multi-functional furniture to maximize space.
- Go vertical: Utilize vertical wall space by installing shelves or wall-mounted cabinets. This will not only provide additional storage but also draw the eye upwards, creating the illusion of a taller room.
- Keep surfaces clear: Avoid cluttering tabletops and other surfaces with unnecessary items. Opt for minimalist decor and only display a few carefully chosen decorative pieces.
- Hide cords: Keep cables and cords organized and out of sight. Use cable management solutions or consider going wireless to eliminate visual clutter.
By following these design rules, you can create a clutter-free living room that feels more spacious and visually wider. This will help you make the most of your narrow layout and create a comfortable and inviting space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
2 Use the right furniture for a narrow living room
When it comes to furnishing a narrow living room, choosing the right furniture is essential in creating a sense of space and flow. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your long living room:
Consider the scale and size
In a narrow living room, it’s important to choose furniture that is of the appropriate scale and size. Larger pieces can overpower the space and make it feel cramped, while smaller pieces may get lost in the room. Look for furniture that is proportionate to the room’s dimensions to create a balanced and visually appealing layout.
Opt for open and airy designs
Furniture with open and airy designs can help create the illusion of a larger space in a narrow living room. Opt for sofas and chairs with exposed legs or glass tabletops. These features allow light to pass through the furniture and make the room feel more open.
Place furniture against the walls
A common mistake in long living rooms is placing furniture in the middle of the room. To maximize the available space, it’s best to place the furniture against the walls. This opens up the middle of the room, creating a clear pathway and making the room feel more spacious.
Use furniture with dual purposes
If you’re struggling with a lack of space in your narrow living room, consider using furniture that serves dual purposes. For example, opt for a sofa with built-in storage or a coffee table with hidden compartments. This way, you can maximize your storage options without cluttering the room.
Keep the flow in mind
When selecting furniture for a narrow living room, it’s important to consider the flow of the room. Make sure there is enough space to move comfortably between furniture pieces and around the room. Avoid overcrowding the space with too much furniture, as this can impede the flow and make the room feel cramped.
By using the right furniture in your narrow living room, you can create a visually appealing and functional space that feels larger than it actually is. Consider these tips when furnishing your long living room and enjoy a more open and inviting space.
3 Pull furniture away from the walls
Pulling furniture away from the walls can create a more natural and visually appealing flow in long, narrow living rooms. By placing furniture against the walls, it can make the room look cramped and confined. Instead, try using the middle of the room to create a sense of openness and spaciousness.
One idea is to place a sofa or dining table in the middle of the room, facing a window or other focal point. This will not only make the room feel larger, but it will also allow for better flow and circulation. It’s important to consider the size and scale of the furniture you choose – oversized pieces may overwhelm the space.
If you have a long and narrow room, consider using furniture that is designed to fit the space. For example, a long, narrow sofa or a set of slim chairs can help to visually widen the room. Glass furniture can also help to create a more open and airy feel.
Another option is to use furniture that can double as storage, such as a coffee table with built-in shelves or ottomans with hidden compartments. This will not only help to keep the room organized, but it will also save valuable floor space.
By pulling your furniture away from the walls and using it in a more creative and thoughtful way, you can make your long living room feel much wider and more inviting.
4 Scale the furniture to fit a long living room
When it comes to furnishing a long living room, one of the most important considerations is scale. Using furniture that is the right size for your space can make a big difference in how your room looks and feels. Here are some ideas for scaling your furniture to create a visually appealing and comfortable layout.
1. Measure your space
Before selecting furniture for your long living room, it’s important to measure the dimensions of the room. This will help you determine the size and scale of the furniture you need. Take note of any architectural features, such as windows, doors, and built-in shelves, that may impact the layout.
2. Choose the right sofa
The sofa is often the focal point of the living room, so it’s essential to choose one that fits well in a narrow space. Avoid oversized sofas that dominate the room and make it feel cramped. Instead, opt for a sofa with a sleek, streamlined design that complements the length of the room. Consider using a sectional sofa to break up the space and provide additional seating options.
3. Consider the flow
When arranging furniture in a long living room, it’s important to consider how people will move through the space. Make sure there is enough room for easy navigation and that furniture placement doesn’t block any pathways or doorways. Keep the middle of the room free from clutter to create a sense of openness.
4. Use chairs and tables
In addition to a sofa, incorporate chairs and tables into your long living room layout. Opt for furniture with slender frames and legs, as they will take up less visual space and create a lighter feel. Consider using a mix of accent chairs and smaller coffee tables to add visual interest and break up the long lines of the room.
5. Create zones
If your long living room serves multiple purposes, such as a combined living and dining area, create zones to define each area. Use furniture placement and rugs to visually separate the spaces while still maintaining an open flow. Consider using a dining table along one wall and positioning the living room furniture against the other wall.
Incorporating these scaling techniques into your long living room design will help make the space feel wider and more visually appealing. Remember to keep the scale and proportions of the furniture in balance with the size of the room, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different layouts to find the one that works best for your space.
5 Light up a narrow space
One of the best ways to make a narrow space feel wider is by incorporating clever lighting techniques. Lighting can play a crucial role in creating the illusion of space and enhancing the overall ambiance of a room. Here are some ideas to light up a narrow space:
- Use natural light: Take advantage of any available natural light in the room. Keep windows free from heavy curtains or blinds and opt for sheer or light-colored window treatments. This will allow more natural light to enter the space, making it feel brighter and more open.
- Strategic placement of mirrors: Mirrors are a tried and tested trick for visually expanding a narrow room. Hang a large mirror on one of the long walls to create the illusion of depth and reflect light throughout the space. You can also place smaller mirrors strategically to bounce light around the room.
- Choose light-colored walls: Light-colored walls can make a narrow space feel larger and more open. Opt for shades like white, cream, or pastel colors to create a bright and airy atmosphere. Darker colors tend to make a room look smaller, so it’s best to avoid them in narrow spaces.
- Incorporate light fixtures with a modern design: Choose light fixtures with clean lines and a minimalist design. Avoid bulky or oversized fixtures that can overwhelm a narrow space. Opt for fixtures that provide ample lighting but blend seamlessly with the overall decor.
- Layer the lighting: Instead of relying solely on one central light source, consider layering the lighting in the room. This can be done by adding task lighting with table lamps or floor lamps near seating areas or by installing wall sconces to provide additional ambient lighting. By distributing light sources throughout the space, you create a more balanced and visually appealing environment.
By incorporating these lighting techniques into your narrow space, you can create a brighter, more open, and visually spacious environment. Experiment with different lighting setups and find the right balance between natural and artificial light to achieve the desired effect in your long living room.
6 Use mirrors to reflect light
One effective way to make a narrow living room appear wider is by using mirrors to reflect light. Mirrors have the ability to create the illusion of a larger space by bouncing light around the room and making it feel more open and spacious.
There are several ways you can incorporate mirrors into your living room design to visually expand the space:
- Hang one large mirror on a central wall to create a focal point and give the illusion of depth.
- Place smaller mirrors on the walls opposite windows to reflect natural light and create a brighter, more airy atmosphere.
- Choose mirrors with frames that match the style and color scheme of your furniture and walls to create a cohesive look.
- Consider using mirrored furniture, like mirrored coffee tables or side tables, to both add functionality and enhance the light reflection in the room.
- Position mirrors at eye level to maximize their impact and ensure they are easily noticeable.
By incorporating mirrors into your long living room layout, you can effectively make a narrow space seem wider while also making it feel brighter and more inviting. Mirrors are a versatile and affordable design element that can instantly transform the look and feel of any room.
7 Use paint to visually enlarge a long narrow room
One of the easiest and most effective ways to make a long narrow room seem wider is by using paint. The right color and technique can create the illusion of space and help the room feel more open and airy.
When it comes to paint colors, light and neutral shades are your best friends. Opt for colors like white, beige, light gray, or pastels. These colors reflect light, making the walls recede and giving the room a sense of depth. Darker colors tend to make a space feel smaller and more enclosed, so they should be avoided.
Another popular technique is to use an accent wall to create a focal point and draw the eye away from the narrowness of the room. You can paint one wall a bolder or darker color than the others to create contrast and add visual interest. This can help break up the space and make it feel larger.
Additionally, painting the ceiling a lighter shade than the walls can also create the illusion of height and make the room feel more spacious. This trick is especially effective in narrow rooms with low ceilings.
When it comes to paint finishes, opt for a matte or eggshell finish. Glossy finishes tend to reflect light, which can create glare and make a space feel smaller. Matte and eggshell finishes have a softer, more diffused effect, which can help create a sense of space.
Consider the lighting conditions in the room when choosing paint colors. Natural light can play a big role in how colors appear, so be sure to take into account the amount of sunlight that enters the space during different times of the day. If the room lacks natural light, using lighter paint colors can help brighten the space and make it feel more open.
In terms of technique, there are a few trends you can try. One popular technique is to paint the shorter end walls a darker color than the longer side walls. This creates a sense of balance and visually widens the space. Another technique is to use a color gradient, starting with a lighter shade at the bottom of the wall and gradually getting darker towards the top. This creates a sense of depth and can make the room feel larger.
Overall, using paint is a cost-effective and versatile way to visually enlarge a long narrow room. With the right colors and techniques, you can transform your space and create a more open and inviting atmosphere.
8 Zone a long room with accessories
When it comes to decorating a long living room, one of the challenges is how to create distinct zones within the space. By strategically placing accessories, you can divide the room into different areas without the need for walls or partitions. Here are some ideas on how to zone a long room:
- Rugs: Use rugs to define different areas in the room. A large rug can be used to anchor the seating area, while smaller rugs can be placed under the dining table or in the reading corner.
- Lighting: Use different light fixtures to create separate zones. Pendant lights can be hung over the dining table, while floor lamps can be placed near the sofa for reading.
- Furniture placement: Arrange the furniture in a way that creates distinct areas. For example, place the sofa and chairs in a conversational layout, with a coffee table in the middle.
- Shelving: Install shelves or bookcases along one wall to create a separate area for displaying books, art, and accessories.
- Divider screens: Use folding screens or room dividers to visually divide the space. This can be particularly useful if you want to create a home office area.
- Artwork: Hang large artworks or mirrors on the walls to create focal points and visually separate different areas.
- Plants: Place indoor plants in different areas of the room to add a natural touch and break up the space.
- Accessories: Use accessories such as pillows, throws, and curtains to define different areas. For example, choose curtains in a different shade or pattern for the dining area.
By using these accessories, you can create zones in a long room that both look and feel distinct. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy reading nook, a stylish dining area, or a functional workspace, these tips will help you make the most of your long living room.
9 Hang pictures correctly
Adding artwork or pictures to your long living room can help create visual interest and make the space feel more personal. However, hanging pictures in a narrow room requires some consideration to ensure they enhance the overall flow and layout. Here are some tips to help you hang pictures correctly in a long living room:
- Consider the size and scale: When choosing pictures or artwork, make sure they are not too small or too large for the wall space. Pictures that are too small can get lost in a long room, while oversized art can overpower the space. Aim for a balanced scale that complements the dimensions of your wall.
- Hang pictures at eye level: The general rule when hanging pictures is to place them at eye level. In a long living room, this means hanging them slightly higher than in other rooms to create a visually appealing focal point. This will also help draw the eye upwards, making the room feel taller.
- Avoid hanging pictures too high or too low: Placing pictures too high or too low can disrupt the flow of the room and make the space feel unbalanced. Keep the midpoint of the artwork at eye level to ensure it is easily visible and blends well with the surrounding furniture.
- Group pictures together: Hanging pictures in a group can create a visual impact and make a narrow room feel wider. Consider creating a gallery wall or arranging pictures in a grid pattern to add visual interest to the wall and make it feel more cohesive.
- Use a mix of landscape and portrait frames: Mixing landscape and portrait frames can add variety and dimension to a long living room wall. This can help break up the monotony of a straight line of pictures and give the room a more dynamic look.
- Consider using a leaning ladder or shelves: If you don’t want to put holes in your walls or prefer a more flexible option, consider using a leaning ladder or shelves to display your pictures. This allows you to easily change the arrangement and add or remove pictures as desired.
- Take advantage of natural light: Hanging pictures near windows can help create a visually pleasing balance between the artwork and natural light. The interplay between the two can enhance the overall ambiance of the room and make it feel brighter and more inviting.
- Create a focal point: Hanging a larger piece of artwork or picture in the middle of a long wall can help create a focal point and anchor the room. This can serve as a visual reference point and make the room feel more cohesive.
- Experiment with different layouts: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different picture layouts to find the one that works best for your long living room. By trying out different arrangements, you can find the layout that suits your space and reflects your personal style.
By following these tips, you can hang pictures correctly in your long living room and create a visually appealing space that feels wider and more inviting.
10 Unite two rooms
If you have a long, narrow living room that is connected to another room, such as a dining room or kitchen, you may want to consider uniting the two spaces to create a more cohesive and visually pleasing design. This can be especially helpful in making the narrow space seem wider and more open.
Here are some ideas for how to unite two rooms:
1. Remove walls
One option is to remove any walls that separate the two rooms. This will create a more open flow and allow for easier movement between the spaces. It can also make the area feel larger and more spacious.
2. Use glass
Another way to unite the two rooms is by using glass as a divider. This can be done by installing glass doors or a glass wall that separates the two spaces while still allowing for visual connection.
3. Create a consistent color palette
Using a consistent color palette throughout both rooms can help them feel connected and cohesive. This can be done by choosing complementary or coordinating colors for the walls, furniture, and accessories.
4. Keep furniture in scale
When selecting furniture for both rooms, be mindful of the scale. Choose pieces that are proportionate to the size of the space and avoid oversized furniture that can overwhelm the room.
5. Arrange furniture strategically
Consider the layout of the furniture in both rooms and arrange it in a way that creates a natural flow between the spaces. Avoid placing furniture against the walls and instead, create cozy seating areas that encourage conversation and interaction.
6. Incorporate natural light
If possible, maximize the natural light in both rooms by keeping window treatments minimal or transparent. This will help create a sense of openness and brightness.
7. Add plants or gardens
Bring the outdoors in by adding plants or gardens to both rooms. This will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also create a sense of freshness and connection to nature.
8. Create a focal point
Create a focal point in both rooms to draw the eye and create a sense of balance and harmony. This could be a fireplace, a piece of artwork, or a statement piece of furniture.
9. Coordinate lighting
Coordinate the lighting in both rooms to create a cohesive look. Consider using pendant lights or chandeliers that can span both spaces.
10. Consider the function of each room
While uniting the two rooms, it’s also important to consider the intended function of each space. For example, if one room is a dining room and the other is a living room, you may want to use different furniture and decor to differentiate the two areas.
How do you arrange furniture in a long living room
Arranging furniture in a long living room can be a challenge, especially when you want to make the space feel free and open. With the right layout and furniture placement, you can create a room that not only looks visually larger but also allows for a smooth flow of traffic.
1. Start with a focal point
When arranging furniture in a long living room, it’s important to establish a focal point. This could be a fireplace, a TV, or a large window with a beautiful view. Place your main furniture, like sofas and chairs, around this focal point to create a sense of cohesion and purpose in the room.
2. Divide the space
To break up the long room into distinct areas, consider using furniture as a divider. Placing a console table or a bookshelf against the wall can create a separation between the living area and the dining area. This not only adds visual interest but also helps define each space.
3. Create zones
Instead of having one large seating area, consider creating multiple smaller zones within the room. For example, you could have a conversational area with sofas and chairs in one corner, a reading nook with a cozy armchair and a floor lamp in another corner, and a dining area with a table and chairs along one wall. This arrangement will make the space feel more intimate and purposeful.
4. Consider scale and proportion
When choosing furniture for a long living room, consider the scale and proportion of the pieces. Oversized furniture can overwhelm the space and make it feel cramped, while small furniture can get lost in the room. Strike a balance by opting for pieces that are in proportion to the size of the room and arrange them in a way that feels balanced and visually pleasing.
5. Use rugs
Rugs can be a great way to visually define different zones within a long living room. Place a rug under each seating area to anchor the furniture and create a sense of coziness. Just make sure the rugs are large enough to accommodate the furniture and extend beyond the edges of the seating areas.
6. Consider the flow of traffic
When arranging furniture in a long living room, it’s important to consider the flow of traffic. Leave enough space between furniture pieces for people to comfortably walk through the room. Avoid placing furniture in a way that obstructs the natural pathways or makes it difficult to navigate the room.
7. Take advantage of natural light
If your long living room has a large window, take advantage of the natural light by arranging furniture in a way that allows you to enjoy the view. Position seating areas near the window and use sheer curtains or shades that can be easily opened and closed to control the amount of light coming into the room.
8. Embrace an open layout
In a long living room, an open layout can work well to create a sense of space and allow for flexible furniture arrangements. Experiment with placing furniture away from the walls and in the middle of the room to create a more open and inviting feel. This can also help make the room feel less narrow.
9. Consider the latest trends and design ideas
Stay up to date with the latest trends and design ideas for arranging furniture in a long living room. Browse through home and garden magazines, explore online interiors websites, or follow digital influencers who share design tips and inspiration. Incorporating the latest trends can help you create a modern and stylish living room.
10. Adapt the layout to your specific needs
While these general design rules can serve as a starting point, it’s important to adapt the furniture arrangement to your specific needs and lifestyle. Consider the size and scale of your furniture, your personal preferences, and how you plan to use the space. Experiment with different layouts and furniture arrangements until you find a setup that feels right for you.
By following these essential design rules and considering your own personal style and preferences, you can arrange furniture in a long living room to create a space that is visually pleasing, functional, and inviting.
How do you utilize a long living room
If you have a narrow living room, it can be challenging to create a functional and visually appealing space. However, with the right design and layout, you can make the most out of your long living room and make it feel larger and more inviting. Here are some ideas to help you utilize a long living room:
1. Furniture arrangement
One of the key factors in utilizing a long living room is the arrangement of furniture. Placement of furniture can help create distinct zones within the space and make it feel more balanced. Consider using the “float” method, where you position furniture away from the walls to create a more intimate and cozy seating area.
2. Scale and proportion
Pay attention to the scale and proportion of furniture in a long living room. Oversized furniture can make the space feel cramped, while small furniture can get lost in the middle of the room. Choose furniture that is the right size for the space and allows for easy movement and flow.
3. Use a mix of seating options
Blend different types of seating options in your long living room to create a more dynamic and inviting space. Incorporate a mix of sofas, chairs, and ottomans to provide versatility and accommodate different seating preferences.
4. Create separate zones
If your long living room also doubles as a dining area, consider creating distinct zones for each space. Use rugs or furniture placement to visually separate the living and dining areas, while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic.
5. Utilize natural light
Make the most of any windows in your long living room to bring in natural light and make the space feel brighter and more open. Avoid blocking the windows with furniture and use light-colored curtains or shades to maximize the natural light.
6. Consider the wall color
The color of the walls can greatly impact the perceived size and ambiance of a long living room. Lighter shades can make the room feel more spacious, while darker colors can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Choose a wall color that complements the overall design of your space.
7. Incorporate mirrors
Using mirrors on one or more walls can help create the illusion of a larger space in a long living room. Place mirrors strategically to reflect light and make the room feel more open and expansive.
8. Embrace vertical design elements
Make use of vertical design elements such as tall bookshelves or floor-to-ceiling curtains to draw the eye upward and create the illusion of higher ceilings. This can help counterbalance the elongated shape of a long living room.
9. Be mindful of traffic flow
Ensure there is enough space for comfortable traffic flow in your long living room. Avoid placing furniture in a way that obstructs the natural flow of movement between different areas of the room.
10. Stay up to date with design trends
While it’s important to create a space that reflects your personal style, staying updated with the latest design trends can provide inspiration and ideas on how to utilize a long living room. Online resources, interior design magazines, and digital platforms like Jennifer’s Gardens are a great place to find inspiration for your long living room.
By following these tips, you can transform a narrow and long living room into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that feels larger and more welcoming.