10 Living Room Designs for Small Spaces That Will Make Your Home Feel Spacious
Small living rooms can feel cozy and inviting with the right design approach. You don’t need a big space to create a stylish and functional living area. Smart furniture choices and layout tricks can make your compact room feel much larger than it really is.
By thinking creatively about storage, lighting, and color, you can transform a tiny living room into a comfortable spot for relaxing and entertaining. The key is to maximize every inch of space while keeping things feeling open and airy. With some clever ideas, your small living room can become your favorite place in the home.
1) Wall-mounted shelves
Wall-mounted shelves are a great way to save space in small living rooms. They make use of vertical wall space that might otherwise go unused. You can put these shelves above your couch, TV, or in empty corners.
These shelves come in many styles. You can choose floating shelves for a sleek look. Or pick bracket shelves for a more rustic feel. Some even come with built-in lights to brighten up your room.
Use wall-mounted shelves to display books, plants, or small decor items. They’re perfect for things you want to show off but don’t have table space for. You can also use them to store everyday items like remote controls or coasters.
When picking shelves, think about what you’ll put on them. Heavier items need sturdier shelves. Lighter items can go on thinner, more decorative options. Mix and match shelf sizes to create an interesting look on your wall.
Remember to secure your shelves properly. Use wall anchors if you’re not drilling into studs. This keeps your shelves safe and your items from falling.
2) Convertible sofa bed
A convertible sofa bed is a game-changer for small living rooms. It serves double duty as a comfy couch during the day and a cozy bed at night. This smart piece of furniture helps you make the most of your limited space.
You can find convertible sofa beds in various styles and sizes. Some fold out into a full-size bed, while others become a twin. Pick one that fits your room and meets your needs.
Check out this convertible sofa bed on Amazon
When shopping for a convertible sofa bed, look for one that’s easy to transform. You don’t want to struggle every time you need to switch from sofa to bed. Many modern designs have smooth mechanisms that make the change quick and simple.
Consider the mattress quality too. You’ll want something comfortable enough for a good night’s sleep. Memory foam options can be a great choice for both sitting and sleeping.
Remember to measure your space carefully before buying. Make sure you have enough room for the sofa when it’s fully extended as a bed. This will help you avoid any surprises when it arrives.
3) Nested coffee tables
Nested coffee tables are a game-changer for small living rooms. You can save space by tucking the smaller tables under the larger one when not in use. This setup gives you flexibility to adjust your layout as needed.
When guests come over, you can spread out the tables to create more surface area. It’s perfect for serving snacks or drinks during gatherings. After the party, just slide them back together to free up floor space.
Choose nested tables with different heights and shapes for visual interest. Round tables work well in tight spaces, as they’re easier to navigate around. Square or rectangular options can fit snugly against a sofa.
Look for tables with slim legs to keep the look light and airy. This helps your small room feel more open. Materials like glass or acrylic can also make the space seem larger.
Consider tables with built-in storage. Some designs include drawers or shelves, giving you extra spots to stash magazines or remote controls. This dual-purpose furniture is a smart pick for compact living areas.
4) Foldable desk
A foldable desk is a smart choice for your small living room. You can set it up when you need to work and tuck it away when you’re done. This saves precious floor space.
Look for desks that mount on the wall. They fold down like a shelf when you need them. Some even have built-in storage for your laptop and office supplies.
Another option is a desk that folds into a cabinet. When closed, it looks like a regular piece of furniture. Open it up, and you have a full workspace.
You might also consider a rolling desk. These can be moved to different spots in your room as needed. When not in use, roll it into a corner or closet.
Some foldable desks come with extra features. You might find one with a built-in whiteboard or corkboard. This gives you space to jot down ideas or pin up important notes.
Remember to measure your space before buying. Make sure the desk fits when both open and closed. With a foldable desk, you can have a home office without sacrificing your living area.
5) Murphy bed
A Murphy bed is a smart choice for small living rooms. It folds up against the wall when not in use, freeing up space during the day. You can easily pull it down at night for sleeping.
Many Murphy beds come with built-in storage. This gives you extra room for clothes, books, or other items. Some models even have desks or shelves attached.
When choosing a Murphy bed, think about the size of your room. Make sure there’s enough space to fold it without bumping into other furniture. Look for one that matches your style and decor.
Here’s the Murphy Bed I recommend
Installing a Murphy bed can be tricky. You might want to hire a pro to make sure it’s secure and works properly. Once it’s set up, you’ll have a comfy bed that doesn’t take up much room.
During the day, your living room can be a place to relax or work. At night, it turns into a cozy bedroom. This dual-purpose space is perfect for studio apartments or guest rooms.
6) Compact sectional sofa
A compact sectional sofa is a smart choice for small living rooms. It gives you plenty of seating without taking up too much space. You can find these sofas in various shapes and sizes to fit your room perfectly.
Look for L-shaped or U-shaped sectionals that tuck neatly into corners. This setup maximizes your seating area while leaving the center of the room open. Some compact sectionals even come with built-in storage, which is great for hiding blankets or extra pillows.
Consider modular sectionals that you can rearrange as needed. These flexible pieces let you change your room’s layout whenever you want. You might put the sofa together for movie nights and split it up for parties.
Here’s a compact sectional sofa I highly recommend
Choose fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain. This is especially important in small spaces where spills are more likely to happen. Removable covers are a bonus, as you can wash them easily.
Think about getting a sectional with a chaise lounge. It gives you a comfy spot to stretch out without taking up as much room as a separate ottoman would.
7) Floating TV stand
A floating TV stand is a smart choice for small living rooms. It saves floor space and gives a modern look. You can mount it directly on the wall, creating a sleek appearance.
These stands come in various sizes and styles. Pick one that fits your TV and room decor. Some have shelves for your cable box or gaming console.
Floating stands often include hidden cable management. This keeps wires out of sight, making your space look neat. You can add LED lights behind the stand for a cool effect.
When installing, make sure to use proper wall anchors. This ensures your TV and stand are secure. Measure carefully before mounting to get the right height and position.
A floating stand can make your room feel bigger. It opens up floor space and draws the eye upward. This trick works well in tight spots.
8) Ottoman with storage
Want to make the most of your small living room? An ottoman with storage is a smart choice. This piece of furniture does double duty. It gives you a comfy spot to put your feet up and hides clutter at the same time.
You can find ottomans in many sizes and styles. Pick one that fits your space and matches your decor. Some have lids that lift up to reveal hidden storage inside. Others have drawers or shelves built in.
Use your ottoman to stash extra blankets, magazines, or remote controls. It’s a great place to keep things you need close by but don’t want out in the open. When guests come over, just close the lid and your room looks neat and tidy.
An ottoman can also serve as a coffee table in a pinch. Put a tray on top to hold drinks or snacks. When you need more seating, it can work as an extra chair too.
By choosing an ottoman with storage, you get more bang for your buck. It’s a space-saving solution that looks good and works hard in your small living room.
9) Mirrored wardrobe
A mirrored wardrobe can be a game-changer in your small living room. It adds a touch of elegance while making the space feel bigger and brighter.
You can place it against a wall to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. This trick works wonders in rooms with limited natural light.
Choose a wardrobe with sliding doors to save space. This way, you won’t need extra room for door swing. Plus, it looks sleek and modern.
The mirrored surface doubles as a full-length mirror. You can check your outfit without taking up extra wall space with a separate mirror.
Inside, you’ll find ample storage for your belongings. Use it to keep your living room tidy by hiding away items you don’t use daily.
You can also use the top of the wardrobe for display. Put some plants or decorative items up there to draw the eye upward and make the room feel taller.
Remember to keep the area around your mirrored wardrobe clear. This helps maximize its light-reflecting properties and maintains a spacious feel in your living room.
10) Corner bookshelves
Corner bookshelves are a smart way to use space in small living rooms. They fit neatly into unused corners, turning them into useful storage areas. You can find corner shelves in many styles to match your decor.
These shelves are great for showing off books, photos, and small decorations. You can mix and match items to create an eye-catching display. Try putting taller items on the bottom shelves and smaller ones on top.
Corner bookshelves come in different heights. Tall ones can make your ceiling look higher. Short ones work well under windows or in tight spots. Some even have built-in lights to highlight your stuff.
These are the ones I bought and they fit perfectly
You can paint corner shelves to match your walls, which will make them blend in and look like part of the room. Alternatively, you can pick a bright color to make them stand out as a fun accent piece.
If you’re handy, you can build your own corner shelves. This lets you customize the size and style to fit your space perfectly. You can use wood, metal, or even old crates to make unique shelves.
Maximizing Space with Clever Layout Ideas
Smart layouts can make small living rooms feel much bigger. The right design tricks open up your space and create a cozy yet functional area.
Open-Plan Concepts
Knock down walls to create an open-plan layout. This makes your living room feel more spacious. Combine your living room with the kitchen or dining area. Use area rugs to define different zones within the open space.
Add multifunctional furniture to maximize your open layout. A kitchen island can double as a dining table. Or try a sofa table that works as a desk when needed.
Good lighting is key in open spaces. Use a mix of overhead lights, lamps, and natural light. This helps create a bright, airy feel throughout the room.
Zone Your Space
Divide your living room into zones for different activities. Create a cozy reading nook in one corner. Set up a small workspace in another. Use furniture to separate areas without blocking sight lines.
Try a floating shelving unit as a room divider. It adds storage while keeping the space open. Or use a low bookcase to create zones without closing off the room.
Pick furniture that fits your zones. A sectional sofa can define a seating area. A slim console table works well as a desk in a small workspace. Remember to leave enough walking space between zones.
Choosing the Right Furniture
Picking furniture for a small living room takes careful thought. You’ll want pieces that look good and make the most of your space.
Multi-Functional Pieces
Look for furniture that serves more than one purpose. Ottomans with hidden storage keep your room tidy and give extra seating. A coffee table with drawers or shelves helps you stay organized.
Sleeper sofas are great for guests and don’t take up extra space. Nesting tables can be spread out when needed and tucked away later. Wall-mounted desks fold up when not in use, freeing up floor space.
Try these smart picks:
- Storage benches
- Expandable dining tables
- Lift-top coffee tables
- Murphy beds
Furniture Arrangement Tips
How you set up your furniture makes a big difference in small spaces. Place your sofa against the longest wall to open up the room. Use tall, narrow bookcases to draw the eye up and make ceilings feel higher.
Float furniture away from walls to create the illusion of more space. Angle chairs to make conversation areas feel cozier. Use see-through pieces like glass tables to keep sight lines open.
Try these layout ideas:
- L-shaped seating arrangements
- Rugs to define zones
- Mirrors to reflect light and space
- Plants in corners to soften edges
Remember to leave clear paths for easy movement. Measure your space and furniture before buying to ensure a good fit.
