Your living room is the heart of the home—a place to relax, gather, entertain and unwind. But designing a layout that’s both stylish and functional can be challenging, especially with varying room shapes, furniture pieces and daily demands. Whether your space is large and open-plan or compact and cosy, a well-considered living room layout brings flow, comfort and purpose to your everyday living.
Here’s how to make the most of your space with thoughtful living room furniture ideas and layout solutions for homes of all sizes.
1. Start by Defining the Function of the Room
Before placing any furniture, think about how you use the space:
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Is it a casual family room? Comfort, durability and storage are key.
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Is it a formal sitting room? Prioritise symmetry and elegant pieces.
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Do you entertain often? Flexible seating and clear zones matter.
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Is it multi-functional? Consider space for play, study or work.
This clarity helps determine what pieces are essential and where compromises may need to be made.
2. Map Out the Space
Measure your room, including window and door placements, power points and natural traffic flow. Sketch a rough floorplan (or use an online planner) and mark zones based on:
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TV viewing
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Conversation areas
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Reading or relaxing corners
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Clear walkways (minimum 80–100 cm wide)
This foundation ensures furniture placement doesn’t disrupt movement or overcrowd the space.
3. Choose the Right Sofa Configuration
The sofa is usually the largest piece in the living room—so its placement defines the rest of the layout.
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For small rooms: A two- or three-seater against the longest wall maximises space. Add an armchair if needed.
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For large, open-plan areas: A modular or L-shaped sofa can create visual separation and anchor the zone.
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For symmetrical layouts: Twin sofas facing each other create balance and encourage conversation.
Floating the sofa (i.e. not placing it against the wall) can make a space feel more designed—especially in larger rooms. Just ensure there’s room behind for traffic or a console table.
4. Anchor the Room with a Rug
A rug grounds the seating area and ties furniture together. When selecting size and placement:
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Large rugs should extend under all key furniture pieces
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In smaller rooms, at least the front legs of your sofa and chairs should sit on the rug
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Stick to durable, easy-clean materials in high-traffic zones
Neutral tones or subtle patterns complement most furniture styles and keep the look cohesive.
5. Create a Focal Point
Every well-designed living room has a visual focal point. This could be:
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A fireplace
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A TV unit
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A statement coffee table
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A piece of large-scale artwork or mirror
If your TV is the main focus, use a sleek entertainment unit like those in Boori’s living range, paired with low-profile décor and balanced side furniture.
6. Layer In Tables Thoughtfully
Tables serve both aesthetic and practical purposes in your living room:
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Coffee tables should be roughly two-thirds the length of your sofa and no higher than the seat cushions
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Side tables provide easy access for lamps, drinks or books—position one next to each seat if possible
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Console tables work well behind sofas or against feature walls for extra surface space and styling opportunities
Boori’s Ballet Coffee Tables offers compact, beautifully made tables perfect for layering in warmth and texture.
7. Consider Vertical and Wall Space
Don’t forget to use your walls wisely:
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Floating shelves can hold books, art and accessories without taking up floor space
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Tall storage units provide vertical interest and reduce clutter
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Mirrors reflect light and open up smaller rooms
Boori’s modular storage options can be styled as both display and hidden storage solutions.
8. Optimise Lighting for Ambience and Function
Good lighting makes a room feel warm and usable across all times of day. Layer three types:
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Ambient lighting: ceiling fixtures for overall illumination
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Task lighting: table or floor lamps for reading and hobbies
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Accent lighting: wall lights or LED strips to highlight décor
Place lamps near seating zones and reading areas to enhance comfort and focus.
9. Balance Open Space and Furniture
Leave breathing room between large pieces. Avoid blocking windows, doors or common pathways. Small adjustments—like angling a chair or using a circular table—can make a big difference in how open the room feels.
In open-plan homes, use furniture (like a sideboard or low shelving) to subtly define zones without needing walls or dividers.
10. Style with Personality and Purpose
Once your layout is working, it’s time to add finishing touches:
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Use cushions, throws and artwork to bring colour and texture
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Mix finishes—like timber, metal and fabric—for visual depth
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Incorporate indoor plants for softness and life
Keep styling consistent with your layout’s function—choose practical trays, baskets or containers to keep items within reach but out of sight.
Final Thoughts
The best living room layouts are those that support how you live while reflecting your personal style. By balancing proportions, defining functional zones and layering in the right furniture and accessories, you can create a space that feels both inviting and intentional.
With timeless timber pieces, smart modular options and stylish coffee and storage tables, Boori’s living room furniture helps bring any layout to life—no matter the size or shape of your space.
