8 Living Room Layouts for All Tastes

A successful living room layout depends on two factors: room shape and client lifestyle. While some may find a symmetrical space to be perfection, others may prefer the gentle chaos of multiple seating areas. But no matter if your living room is small, long, narrow or high, you can use your furniture layout to reflect your own style while creating an inviting feeling for guests.

Here are eight great living room layouts that can work with anyone's style. See which could work in your home.

Symmetrical. The fireplace serves as the focal point in this monochromatic living room. Dividing the layout equally on either side allows guests to sit directly across from one another. Usually, symmetrical layouts like this dictate a more formal setting.


Minimalist. Using minimalist, low-lying furniture puts the emphasis on your home's architecture. No end tables, knickknacks or table lamps are necessary in this grand space.


Balanced. Forget the sofa and create a circular area of relaxing club chairs. Placing furniture all around the room with a cocktail table or ottoman (as shown) as the anchor creates a comfortable balance that promotes conversation.


Flowing. It's hard to figure out what to do with a long space like this, but this designer used a traditional seating arrangement to create a recognizable flow from one end of the room to the other. The backless daybed brings both ends of the room together, instead of separating the space.


Harmonizing. This living room accommodates many guests with seating in many shapes and sizes. The sofa grounds the back wall, while the rest of the furniture arrangement circles around an oversize cocktail table. A backless upholstered bench balances out the opposite side of the room perfectly.


Playful. Not every living space has to be serious. If you have a larger piece of gaming furniture (such as the pool table in this room), build your living room around it. The pool table takes the place of a conventional sofa here, while the overstuffed chairs ground the opposite side of the room. Custom bench seating with flared arms under the windows subtly emphasizes the fun feel.


Small. Smaller living rooms offer the opportunity for bold style and cozy furniture layouts. A settee, used in lieu of a traditional sofa, sits perfectly in the middle of this room. Combined with two armless chairs, it provides plenty of seating for just the right amount of guests. I love how the bench behind the settee can provide additional seating, too.

See settees for every room and style


Artful. If you've invested in art, let it determine your living room's layout. This room's sectional sofa seems to disappear into the wall, allowing the art and accessories to take center stage. The playful tufted ottomans add to the room's artful vibe.

More photos: Browse thousands of living rooms by style

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