Living Room Layout Tips: Simple Ways to Arrange Furniture & TV

Plan Your Furniture Zones

First, think of the room as a series of zones. The main zone is where you relax – usually the sofa and chairs. The secondary zone is for media – the TV, speakers, and sometimes a console. A third zone, if you have the space, can be a reading corner or a small work desk.

Measure the floor space you have. Write down the length and width, then sketch a rough rectangle on paper. Mark the entrance and any doors, windows, and built‑in features. This helps you see what walls are available for a sofa or TV.

When you place the sofa, keep a traffic lane of about 2‑3 feet in front so people can move around easily. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least one foot between the sofa and any side tables to avoid a cramped feel.

If your room is long and narrow, try a sectional that hugs a corner. This opens up the middle and gives a clear line of sight to the TV. For square rooms, a standard three‑seat sofa with a couple of armchairs works well, leaving space for a coffee table in the center.

Smart TV and Storage Placement

The TV should be at eye level when you’re seated. Measure the height of your couch cushions and add a few inches – that’s where the screen’s center should sit. If you mount the TV on a wall, use a low TV stand or floating shelf to keep the base stable and hide cables.

Avoid placing the TV opposite a window. Glare can ruin the picture and make it hard to watch. If you can’t move the window, add curtains or a blind that you can close when you’re watching.

Storage doesn’t have to be bulky. Low media consoles work well under the TV, offering space for a gaming console, DVD player, or books. If you need extra storage without taking floor space, consider floating shelves on the wall next to the TV.

Think about the flow of the room. You want people to be able to walk from the sofa to the kitchen or hallway without stepping over cords or furniture. Keep wires tidy with cable covers or a simple zip tie bundle.

Finally, add personality. A rug that defines the seating area, a couple of cushions in a bold color, or a small plant on a side table can make the space feel lived‑in. These touches don’t change the layout, but they make the room inviting.

With these basic steps – zoning the space, measuring for traffic lanes, placing the TV at eye level, and using smart storage – you can create a living room layout that looks good and works well every day.