How to Arrange Living Room Furniture: Create a Stylish and Practical Space

Designing your living room layout can feel overwhelming,  but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're working with a compact city flat or a spacious open-plan lounge, arranging your living room furniture is about balancing style with functionality.

At Furniture World, we believe your home should feel like a sanctuary. From quiet evenings curled up on the sofa to lively weekend gatherings, your living room needs to be both welcoming and practical.That’s why we’ve gathered some expert living room furniture arrangement tips to help you get the layout just right.

Start with the Space You Have

Before diving into moodboards or measuring up for new furniture, take time to assess your room layout. Is the shape awkward? Do you have a bay window that’s tricky to furnish? Or perhaps a narrow living room typical of a Victorian terrace?

Whatever the size or layout, the way you position your furniture makes a significant difference—not just to the flow of the room, but to how it feels to spend time there.

Small Living Room Ideas That Make a Big Impact

Small doesn’t have to mean cramped. With a few thoughtful design choices, you can transform even the most compact space into a cosy and welcoming retreat.

• Mount the television on the wall to free up floor space.
  
  

• Choose multi-functional furniture, such as a storage ottoman or a footstool that also serves as a coffee table.
  
  

• Add a large mirror or use satin-finish paint to reflect light and make the space feel more open.
  
  

Top tip: Keep furniture low-profile and proportionate to the space. Oversized sofas tend to overwhelm small rooms and can make them feel more confined.

How to Style an Open Plan Living Room

Got a large, open-plan space? Lucky you. But without the right layout, even the most generous rooms can feel sparse or lacking in purpose.

Create distinct zones within the room to give it structure. Consider adding a reading nook, a home working area, or a well-defined TV zone. Use furniture placement to separate areas naturally—there’s no need to line everything up along the walls.

Try positioning your sofa in the centre of the room, anchored with a large rug beneath. This helps define the space and encourages a sociable, cosy layout while still preserving that open, airy feel.

What to Do with Long, Narrow Living Rooms

If your living room feels more like a corridor, don’t worry—you’re in good company. Many British homes feature this classic, elongated layout.

Rather than placing chairs directly opposite each other (which can feel a little too formal), opt for a relaxed, L-shaped arrangement. A compact sofa paired with an angled armchair helps maintain flow and ease of movement.

Tuck a slim bookcase or media unit along one wall to maximise storage without crowding the room.This setup keeps the space feeling open, practical, and welcoming—ideal for everyday use or entertaining guests.

Bay Window Layout Tips

Bay windows can be both a blessing and a bit of a puzzle. You’ve got this lovely architectural feature… but where does the furniture go?

You’ve got a couple of great options to make the most of the space:

• Frame it: Position two armchairs or small love seats on either side to create a relaxed conversation corner.
  
  

• Utilise it: Install a built-in window seat or place a compact desk in the bay. This lets you enjoy the natural light while adding function.
  
  

If you place a sofa in front of the bay, be mindful not to block too much light or the view. The space behind can be used cleverly—for example, with a slim console table or subtle storage.

Making the Most of Alcoves

Alcoves are a common feature in older British homes, especially surrounding fireplaces. Rather than letting them become cluttered or underused, turn them into something purposeful.

Here are a few thoughtful ways to make the most of them:

• Install floating shelves or built-in cabinetry to add smart storage without taking up extra space.
  
  

• Balance function and aesthetics by using one alcove for storage and the other for displaying décor or artwork. This keeps the room visually interesting without looking too symmetrical.
  
  

• Need a workspace? Turn one alcove into a compact home office setup. A slim desk and floating shelf can create a tidy and practical nook.
  

Arranging Sofas and Chairs for Comfort and Flow

The classic living room layout — one sofa paired with two armchairs — remains a favourite for good reason. It naturally encourages conversation while keeping the space light and open.

For smaller spaces, consider swapping the second armchair for a compact accent chair or a loveseat to maintain flow without overcrowding.

You can also try the following:

• Position chairs on the diagonal to introduce a sense of movement and soften straight lines.
  
  

• Use side tables and soft lighting to form inviting corners perfect for reading or relaxing.
  
  

• Choose a larger rug than you think you need — it will ground the space, connect your seating area, and create a sense of quiet luxury.
  
  

Incorporate Feng Shui for Balance and Harmony

A few simple Feng Shui principles can go a long way in making your living room feel more balanced, calming, and full of positive energy.

• Set your intention – What’s the space for? Is it a relaxing retreat or a lively entertaining zone? Your answer will guide decisions on furniture size, layout, and lighting.
  
  

• Keep the flow – Avoid placing large furniture in doorways or high-traffic areas. A clear path not only helps energy move smoothly, but also keeps your space more comfortable to use.
  
  

• Layer your lighting – Skip the harsh overheads. Combine floor lamps, table lights, and dimmable bulbs to create a softer, more welcoming atmosphere.

• Use mirrors mindfully – Position mirrors beside windows to bounce natural light around the room. Just avoid hanging them directly above seating, where they can feel overpowering.
  

Final Thoughts: Plan First, Decorate Second

It’s always tempting to dive straight into choosing paint colours or picking out statement plants. But taking the time to get your living room layout right first will make every other decision easier.

Whether you’re working with a compact lounge or an open-plan space, we’re here to help you shape a living room that’s practical, stylish, and personal to you.

Explore our curated collection of living room furniture — from space-saving sofas to beautifully crafted storage — and let our team guide you towards a setup that truly works for your home.