When it comes to small living spaces, finding ways to add extra seats without sacrificing style or functionality can be a challenge. However, with some clever design ideas and furniture staples, it is possible to create a cozy and inviting seating area for the whole family and guests.
One popular solution is to incorporate multifunctional furniture that can serve as both seating and storage. For example, a coffee table with built-in storage compartments or ottomans with hidden storage can provide additional seating options without taking up extra space. These pieces can also be easily moved around the room to accommodate different layouts and gatherings.
Another approach is to make use of the vertical space in your small living room. Place higher seating options such as bar stools or tall chairs near windows or walls to create extra seating without taking up valuable floor space. You can also consider adding floating shelves or built-in wall cabinets beneath windows to serve as both seating and storage.
When it comes to the layout of your small living room, make sure to keep the flow of the room in mind. Arrange the seats in a way that allows for easy movement and conversation. Consider placing a cozy sofa or loveseat in front of a fireplace or beneath a window to create a focal point and make the most of the available space.
If you have a small living room that is connected to other areas of your home, you can use a clever seating idea that involves converting an unused corner into a seating nook. For example, you can place a small bench or settee in a corner and add a few comfortable cushions and throws to create a cozy reading or relaxation spot.
In conclusion, adding extra seats to a small living room may require some creative thinking and space-saving furniture solutions. By utilizing vertical space, incorporating multifunctional furniture, and considering the layout of the room, you can create a comfortable and inviting seating area that is both stylish and functional.
How can you add extra seats to a small living room
When it comes to small living rooms, creating extra seating can be a challenge. However, there are several ways you can add more seats and make the most of your space. Whether it’s for entertaining guests or just having more room for your family to relax, these ideas will help you maximize seating in your small living room.
1. Multifunctional Furniture
One of the best ways to add extra seats to a small living room is through multifunctional furniture. Look for pieces that serve more than one purpose, such as ottomans or coffee tables with built-in seating. These can be used as extra seating when needed, and then easily tucked away when not in use.
2. Utilize Vertical Space
When you have limited floor space, it’s important to utilize vertical space. Consider adding tall bookshelves or cabinets that can also double as seating. You can place cushions on top of these units to create additional seating for guests.
3. Window Seats
If you have a window in your small living room, consider adding a window seat. This can be a cozy and functional seating option, especially if you have a nice view. You can build a window seat with storage underneath, providing both seating and extra storage space.
4. Built-in Seating
If you’re looking for a more permanent seating solution, consider built-in seating. This can be done around a fireplace or even along a wall. Built-in benches with cushions can provide comfortable seating and also create a stylish and cohesive look in your living room.
5. Folding Chairs and Stools
When space is at a premium, folding chairs and stools can be a great solution. These can be easily stored away when not in use and brought out when you have extra guests. Look for lightweight and compact options that can be easily stored in a closet or garage.
6. Optimize Furniture Layout
The way you arrange your furniture can also maximize seating in a small living room. Consider placing chairs and sofas closer together to create a cozy and intimate seating area. You can also position furniture at different angles to make the most of your space.
With these clever ideas, you can add extra seats to your small living room without sacrificing style or comfort. Whether you opt for multifunctional furniture, built-in seating, or creative layout solutions, you can create a cozy and inviting space for both family and guests.
Published on July 15, 2021. Modified on July 18, 2021
Add in multifunctional furniture
If you’re looking to add extra seats to a small living room, one of the best ways to do so is by incorporating multifunctional furniture. This type of furniture is designed to serve more than one purpose, allowing you to maximize the use of your space.
For example, a coffee table can also double as a seating option. Look for coffee tables with built-in ottomans or stools that can be tucked away when not in use. This way, you can have a cozy place to put your feet up, and when you have guests over, you can easily create additional seating.
If you have a fireplace in your living room, consider adding a fitted fender seat. A fender is a low bench-like seat that is placed in front of the fireplace. It not only adds extra seating, but it also provides a comfortable spot to sit and enjoy the warmth of the fire.
Another clever idea is to use a storage bench or ottoman that can be used as both seating and storage. These pieces of furniture often have a hinged top that opens up to reveal a storage compartment. You can use this space to store extra blankets, pillows, or other items that you want to keep handy but out of sight.
To make the most of your small living room layout, look for furniture that can be easily moved around. This way, you can create different seating areas depending on the needs of your guests. For example, you could have a seating area by the window for those who want to enjoy the view, and then move the seats to create a more intimate conversation area when needed.
When it comes to multifunctional furniture, think beyond just seating options. Look for pieces that also offer additional storage or tabletop space. For example, some coffee tables have built-in shelves or drawers where you can keep books, magazines, or other items. This not only helps to keep your living room organized, but it also provides additional surface area for decoration or serving drinks and snacks.
Incorporating multifunctional furniture is a great way to add extra seats to a small living room without sacrificing style or comfort. Whether you’re short on space or simply want to make the most of the space you have, these versatile furniture pieces can help you create a functional and inviting living room.
2. Build in a bench seat
If you’re looking for a practical and space-saving solution to add extra seats to your small living room, building in a bench seat might be the way to go. This clever seating option can create a cozy and multifunctional space while maximizing your available floor area. Here are some ways you can incorporate a bench seat into your home:
2.1. Window Bench Seat
One of the best places to build a bench seat is beneath a window. Not only does it provide a comfortable seating area, but it also allows you to take advantage of natural light and enjoy the view outside. A window bench seat can be a great addition to a small living room, providing additional seating for guests or a relaxing spot for reading. You can even add cushions or pillows for added comfort and style.
2.2. Fireplace Bench Seat
If your living room has a fireplace, consider building a bench seat in front of it. This not only provides extra seating but also creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to gather around the fire with family and friends or simply curl up with a good book. You can design the bench seat to match the style of your fireplace and use the space beneath it for storage.
2.3. Fitted Bench Seat
If you have a small living room with limited space, a fitted bench seat can be a great solution. It’s a built-in seating option that can be customized to fit the dimensions of your room perfectly. You can have the bench seat integrated into the walls or built into a corner. This saves space and allows you to make the most of every inch. Add some cushions and throw pillows to make it more comfortable and inviting.
2.4. Coffee Table Bench Seat
Another clever idea is to combine a bench seat with a coffee table. This multifunctional piece of furniture not only provides extra seating but also serves as a coffee table. You can have a bench seat with a lower height that can be used as a coffee table when needed. This way, you can save space and have a coffee table that converts into extra seating for guests.
Remember to keep the overall layout and style of your living room in mind when building in a bench seat. Work with an interior designer or seek advice from professionals to ensure that the bench seat fits seamlessly into your space and enhances the overall aesthetics of your home.
Whether you choose a window bench seat, a fireplace bench seat, a fitted bench seat, or a coffee table bench seat, incorporating this type of seating into your small living room can add both functionality and style. It’s a great way to make the most of your space and provide extra seats for guests without sacrificing comfort or design.
3 Choose an upholstered coffee table
A coffee table is an essential piece of furniture in any living room. It not only provides a place to set drinks and snacks, but it can also serve as extra seating when needed. A clever idea for adding extra seats to a small living room is to choose an upholstered coffee table.
When it comes to choosing an upholstered coffee table, consider one that is higher in height. This will allow for more comfortable seating and create a cozy atmosphere in your living room. Look for a coffee table that is designed with multifunctional features, such as built-in storage or hidden seats beneath the tabletop.
An upholstered coffee table is a great way to add extra seating without taking up too much space. It can be used as a footrest, a table, and an extra seat all in one. For example, if you have a small living room with limited seating, you can use the upholstered coffee table to create a seating area in front of the fireplace or around a window.
One example of an upholstered coffee table is the “Fender” coffee table by Louise Hilditch Interiors. This coffee table is designed with a padded top and upholstered sides, creating a comfortable seating area that can accommodate multiple guests. The coffee table is also fitted with storage compartments, allowing you to keep your living room organized and clutter-free.
If you want to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your small living room, then choosing an upholstered coffee table is a great option. Not only does it provide extra seats, but it also adds style and functionality to your home.
4 Put a club fender around the fireplace
If you have a small living room and want to add extra seating without sacrificing space, one clever idea is to put a club fender around the fireplace. A club fender is a low bench or seat that is designed to wrap around the front of a fireplace. It creates a cozy and intimate seating area where you can sit and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the fire.
A club fender is a multifunctional piece of furniture that can be used as both a seat and a coffee table. You can place a tray on top of it to hold drinks and snacks, or use it as a footrest to relax and put your feet up.
When it comes to choosing a club fender, there are several options available. You can find them in different styles and materials, so you can select one that matches the overall aesthetic of your living room. Some club fenders even come with built-in storage space, where you can keep blankets or books.
If you’re not sure where to find a club fender, you can search online for furniture stores that offer this service. You can also visit local antique shops or ask a carpenter to build a custom club fender for you.
For example, Louise Hilditch Interiors published an article in July 2021 that showcased a small living room layout with a club fender around the fireplace. They fitted a low bench beneath the window and placed two small tables in front of it. This created a cozy seating area that was higher than the rest of the furniture, which added visual interest to the space.
So, if you’re looking for ways to add extra seats to your small living room, consider putting a club fender around the fireplace. It’s a clever and stylish solution that will keep your space cozy and inviting for both your family and guests.
5 Make the most of an alcove
If you have a small living room with limited space for extra seating, making use of an alcove is a great idea. Alcoves provide a cozy and weather place to create additional seating without taking up too much space in the main living area.
One clever way to make the most of an alcove is by fitting it with built-in seating. This can be done by creating a window seat or a bench that runs along the length of the alcove. This not only creates a cozy seating area, but also maximizes the use of the space available.
Another way to make the most of an alcove is by using it to house a small coffee table or a side table. This serves as a multifunctional piece of furniture, providing a surface for placing drinks, books, or decorative items, while also offering additional seating when needed.
For example, a bench with a higher seating height can be used as a dining area when guests are over, or as a makeshift desk for work or studying. This adds versatility to the space and ensures that the alcove remains functional at all times.
If you want to add some style to the alcove seating, consider incorporating cushions, throw pillows, or even a small upholstered backrest. These not only make the seating area more comfortable, but also help to tie in the alcove with the rest of the living room’s décor.
When it comes to the layout of the alcove seating, keep in mind the overall flow and functionality of the living room. Place the seating in a way that allows for easy movement around the room and doesn’t obstruct key areas such as the fireplace or the entrance.
By making the most of an alcove, you can create extra seats in a small living room while keeping the space cozy and functional. Whether it’s a window seat, a bench with a built-in table, or a multifunctional seating area, utilizing an alcove is a smart way to maximize seating options in a small space.
Should furniture be the same height in a small living room
If you want to create a cozy and functional seating area in a small living room, it is important to carefully consider the height of the furniture you choose. While there is no hard and fast rule about whether furniture should be the same height in a small living room, there are several factors to consider before making a decision.
One idea is to incorporate seating options that vary in height to add visual interest and create a more dynamic space. For example, you can place a low coffee table in front of a set of higher seats to create a layered effect. This not only adds depth to the room but also provides different options for guests to choose from, depending on their seating preferences.
Another approach is to use furniture that is all the same height to create a more cohesive and streamlined look. This can work well if you have limited space and want to keep the layout simple and clean. For example, if you have a small living room with a fireplace or a window that you don’t want to obstruct, using furniture that is all the same height can help create a sense of balance and harmony in the room.
When it comes to seating options, there are several ways to add extra seats to a small living room. One popular solution is to use multifunctional furniture, such as ottomans or benches, that can double as seating and storage. This not only maximizes the use of space but also provides a practical storage solution for items like blankets and pillows.
Additionally, you can consider using smaller accent chairs or stools that can be easily moved around and rearranged to accommodate different seating needs. These can be placed strategically around the room to create additional seating areas without taking up too much space.
When choosing furniture for a small living room, it is important to keep in mind the style and overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Consider the overall theme and design of your home, as well as the colors and materials used in your interiors. If you need guidance or advice, there are many interior design services available that can help you create a cohesive and stylish look for your living room.
Ultimately, whether or not furniture should be the same height in a small living room depends on your personal preferences and the specific layout of your space. There are no hard rules, so feel free to experiment and find a solution that works best for you and your family.