5 Common Elements of the Best Living Room Layouts

A well-designed living room layout can enhance the functionality of the space and meet the needs of everyday use. Here are the five key features that all the best living room layouts share.

1. Conversation-Friendly Setup

A living room layout should encourage conversation. The arrangement of seating is crucial—it should create an intimate atmosphere, making it easy to communicate, rather than placing seating too far apart, which might cause people to shout across the room.

Create distinct zones within the space. In these zones, include flexible, portable furniture like extra ottomans or small chairs that can double as additional seating when entertaining. These pieces are easy to move and small enough to store away in a corner or under a table.

Your living room must offer multiple seating options. This doesn’t necessarily mean a sofa with a bunch of chairs, but there should be at least one sofa with either a footstool or a chair, or both. A good living room layout always offers multiple options because who knows if you’ll be hosting guests or just lounging with your family?

2. Storage Options

A living room layout is incomplete without some form of storage furniture. Living room storage is essential for keeping blankets, games, books, or other idle items, as these things need a place to go when not in use.

Options include credenzas, storage ottomans, baskets, and more.

3. Featured Artwork

No living room is truly complete without artwork. Every well-balanced layout should include some form of art, especially in the living room.

Where you place your artwork in the space is entirely up to you, and the medium you choose can vary greatly. Artwork might not be the primary focal point, but it should certainly exist, enhancing the layout of the room. Whether it’s a single object, a painting, or a photo, artwork adds an extra layer of visual interest beyond just the furniture.

4. Curtains

After adding some artwork to your living room walls, it’s time to focus on the windows and curtains.

Curtains may not be the defining feature of a space, but they contribute significantly to creating a truly high-quality living room. Curtains are a key element in any space, especially in the living room. Choosing the right fabric or woven material can make the layout feel warmer and more inviting.

A living room without decor gives your space the wrong impression—it will lack personality and architectural texture. Don’t overlook curtains, as they elevate the overall feel of your room.

5. Surface Space

Last but certainly not least, incorporating plenty of surface space into the living area is crucial.

Make sure every chair or sofa has a place to set down a drink, such as side tables, coffee tables, or cocktail tables.

Of course, these tables don’t all have to look the same. You can create visual interest by mixing different colors, textures, and patterns in the furniture.

If the proportions and colors work well together, don’t hesitate to place striped, floral, or ikat patterns side by side for added fun.