13 Small Living Room Ideas That Make the Most of Limited Space
You can maximize your room's potential—even if it's tiny!
Whether it's where you gather with friends or settle in for a quiet evening, the living room should feel as welcoming as it is functional. While limited square footage can make decorating more challenging, it doesn't have to limit your design possibilities. Even if you're working with a compact footprint, a few thoughtful design decisions can maximize the space without sacrificing style. These small living room decor ideas show you how.
Double up on mirrors
Create the illusion of more space by layering mirrors on top of a small cabinet. It'll also give your living room a more lived-in feel.
Choose an airy white palette
For some reason, a white palette always makes a room more airy. Test the look by mixing various shades of white for a picture-perfect living room.
Let patterns overflow
If your tiny space is on the neutral side, weave in a mix of timeless patterns (stripes and animal prints are good options) to maintain visual interest.
Outfit your space with a settee
A small living room calls for a petite sofa style such as a settee. Consider a tufted version to make your interior feel even more inviting.
Incorporate seating with storage
Don't overlook the opportunity to incorporate seating with storage, as seen in this 362-square-foot California bungalow. A sofa with baskets in the cubbies, for instance, is a brilliant way to keep things like linens and reading material under wraps.
Weave in dining chairs
Rather than struggling to squeeze an upholstered armchair into your cozy living room, choose a dining chair that's less bulky to free up more space.
Purchase a versatile bar cart
A bar cart is ideal for a small space. While it's great for serving drinks to guests, you can also use it to display a floral arrangement, artwork, or a selection of books.
Create a focal point
Any small space can benefit from a focal point like a standout gallery wall or a single piece of art that holds special meaning to you.
Try to conceal your TV
If you have room for a bookcase, why not make a spot for your TV among your other decor? It's a great way to camouflage it and add more visual appeal to the room.
Go green
Whether you opt for an assortment of succulents or a lush fern, greenery is an easy way to breathe life into your compact space.
Hang sheer curtains
Sheer drapes let more natural light pour in, which is key to ensuring your small living room doesn't ever feel too cramped.
Think of unexpected decor hacks
You have to be strategic about using every inch of a small space. The perfect example? Putting throw pillows and a cushion right on top of a radiator can provide extra seating (as long as the radiator has a proper and safe cover, of course).
Purchase a lucite coffee table
Along with lending a modern touch to a living room, lucite furniture can make it appear more spacious. For instance, try a lucite coffee table rather than a traditional wood design that takes up more visual space.
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
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