Small Living Room Ideas That Make the Space Feel Larger

It's time to stop assuming that small living rooms are bad or undesirable. Though a sprawling den might be a dream for some people, a compact living space can create a cozier and more intentional atmosphere for lazy-night-in enjoyment. As we enter the colder seasons and spend more time indoors, a small living room should be a place where you can relax and unwind—the trick is to keep the style highly curated so it doesn't look cluttered.

No matter the exact size of your space, there are plenty of small living room ideas to consider. Some trick the eye into making the space look bigger than it is by playing with furniture scale and paint colors, while others are designed more to help you embrace your small space without it feeling too busy or overwhelming. There's no need to let your limited square footage curtail your creativity.

Embrace the Small Size

Sometimes, living rooms can feel—dare we say—too big to create the dream space you're looking for. If you want a cozy living room, especially as we enter fall, you might want to embrace one that's a smaller size so you can create the vibe you desire. The team at White Space Design Group put in a little gas fireplace and stove to keep things homey—something that would be harder to achieve if the room were larger.

Find Unique Storage Solutions

In small living rooms, it's essential to find creative storage solutions and arrange furniture to avoid a cramped feel. In Liz Dutton's Ohio home, this is achieved by storing a stack of books neatly under the antique, low-to-the-ground coffee table and using a small side table for drinks. In a space with limited square footage, it's crucial not to overcrowd the walls or block walking paths. Unique solutions like these ensure a balanced and open layout.

Find Unique Storage Solutions

Wall-Mount Your TV

With a small living room, you'll want to save as much floor space as you can to reduce clutter, and wall-mounting your TV might be a solution. Designer Rasheeda Gray mounted this large television flush to the wall, allowing her clients to have a screen as big as they wanted without forcing the room to feel tight.