Living room decorating ideas for long narrow rooms address the unique challenges of arranging furniture and decor in a space that is longer than it is wide. These ideas can help create a cohesive and inviting living room that maximizes the available space and minimizes the feeling of narrowness.
One common challenge in decorating a long narrow living room is creating a sense of balance and symmetry. To achieve this, designers often use a variety of techniques, such as placing furniture in a U-shape or L-shape, or using rugs and other accessories to define different areas of the room. Additionally, carefully chosen furniture and decor can help to elongate or widen the space, depending on the desired effect.
In the following sections, we will explore specific living room decorating ideas for long narrow rooms, including furniture arrangement, color choices, and lighting techniques. By incorporating these ideas into your design plan, you can create a living room that is both stylish and functional, regardless of its dimensions.
Living room decorating ideas for long narrow rooms:
- Maximize space with smart furniture arrangement
- Use rugs to define areas and elongate the space
- Choose furniture that is proportionate to the room size
- Hang curtains high and wide to create the illusion of width
- Incorporate mirrors to reflect light and make the room feel larger
- Use light colors and patterns to create a sense of airiness
- Add plants to bring life and color to the room
- Install adequate lighting to brighten dark corners
- Accessorize with items that add personality and warmth
By following these ideas, you can create a living room that is both stylish and functional, regardless of its dimensions.
Maximize space with smart furniture arrangement
In a long narrow living room, it is essential to arrange furniture in a way that maximizes space and creates a sense of flow. This can be achieved by:
- Placing furniture along the longest wall: This creates a clear pathway through the room and makes it feel wider. Avoid placing large pieces of furniture in the center of the room, as this can obstruct the flow of traffic.
- Using furniture with clean lines and simple shapes: Bulky or ornate furniture can make a long narrow room feel even more cramped. Instead, opt for furniture with clean lines and simple shapes that will help to create a sense of airiness.
- Choosing furniture that is proportionate to the room size: Oversized furniture can overwhelm a long narrow room, while furniture that is too small can make the room feel empty. Choose furniture that is proportionate to the room size and that will leave enough space for circulation.
- Creating conversation areas: Arrange furniture in groups to create conversation areas. This will help to break up the long, narrow space and make it feel more inviting. Use rugs to define each conversation area and to add warmth and texture to the room.
By following these tips, you can maximize space and create a functional and stylish living room, even if it is long and narrow.
Use rugs to define areas and elongate the space
Rugs can be a powerful tool in decorating a long narrow living room. They can be used to define different areas of the room, such as the living area, dining area, and entryway. They can also be used to elongate the space and make it feel more.
- Choose the right size rug: The size of the rug is important in defining the space and elongating the room. For a long narrow living room, choose a rug that is long and narrow, rather than square or round. The rug should be large enough to extend under all of the furniture in the area, but it should not overwhelm the space.
- Place the rug strategically: The placement of the rug can also help to elongate the room. Place the rug so that it runs the length of the room, parallel to the longest wall. This will create the illusion of a longer, narrower space.
- Use rugs to define different areas: Rugs can be used to define different areas of the living room, such as the living area, dining area, and entryway. This can help to break up the long, narrow space and make it feel more inviting. When choosing rugs for different areas, consider the style and color of the furniture and decor in each area.
- Use rugs to add warmth and texture: Rugs can also be used to add warmth and texture to a long narrow living room. Choose rugs that are made from natural materials, such as wool or sisal, which will add a sense of coziness to the space. You can also add texture to the room by layering rugs, using different colors and patterns.
By following these tips, you can use rugs to define areas, elongate the space, and add warmth and texture to your long narrow living room.
Choose furniture that is proportionate to the room size
In a long narrow living room, it is important to choose furniture that is proportionate to the room size. Oversized furniture can overwhelm the space, while furniture that is too small can make it feel empty and disjointed.
- Choose furniture that is the right size for the space: Measure the room carefully before you start shopping for furniture. Make sure to leave enough space for circulation and to avoid overcrowding the room.
- Choose furniture with a low profile: Furniture with a low profile will help to make the room feel larger. Avoid furniture with high backs or bulky arms, which can make the room feel cramped.
- Choose furniture with clean lines: Furniture with clean lines will help to create a sense of order and calm in the room. Avoid furniture with ornate carvings or excessive detailing, which can make the room feel cluttered.
- Choose furniture that is multifunctional: Multifunctional furniture can help to save space in a long narrow living room. For example, a sofa bed can provide both seating and sleeping space, while a coffee table with built-in storage can help to keep the room tidy.
By following these tips, you can choose furniture that is proportionate to the room size and that will help to create a stylish and functional living room.
Hang curtains high and wide to create the illusion of width
In a long narrow living room, the right curtains can make a big difference in the overall feel of the space. By hanging curtains high and wide, you can create the illusion of width and make the room feel more spacious.
- Hang curtains as close to the ceiling as possible: This will help to draw the eye upward and make the room feel taller. Avoid hanging curtains at the traditional window height, as this will only emphasize the length of the room.
- Choose curtains that are wider than the windows: This will help to create the illusion of wider windows and make the room feel more balanced. When choosing curtains, be sure to measure the width of the windows, including the trim, and add at least 6 inches to each side.
- Use floor-to-ceiling curtains: Floor-to-ceiling curtains will help to elongate the room and make it feel more spacious. If you have tall windows, you can use curtains that puddle slightly on the floor. This will add a touch of luxury and drama to the room.
- Choose light-colored curtains: Light-colored curtains will reflect light and make the room feel larger. Avoid using dark-colored curtains, as these will absorb light and make the room feel smaller.
By following these tips, you can use curtains to create the illusion of width and make your long narrow living room feel more spacious and inviting.
Incorporate mirrors to reflect light and make the room feel larger
Mirrors are a powerful tool for making a small space feel larger. They reflect light and create the illusion of more space. In a long narrow living room, mirrors can be used to reflect light from windows and make the room feel wider. They can also be used to create the illusion of more depth, making the room feel longer.
To use mirrors effectively in a long narrow living room, hang them on walls that are perpendicular to the long axis of the room. This will help to reflect light from windows and make the room feel wider. You can also hang mirrors opposite each other to create an infinity effect, which will make the room feel even larger. If you have a fireplace, hanging a mirror above the mantel can help to reflect light and make the room feel more spacious.
In addition to hanging mirrors on walls, you can also use mirrored furniture to make the room feel larger. Mirrored coffee tables and end tables can reflect light and create the illusion of more space. You can also use mirrored tiles on the wall or floor to create a dramatic effect. However, it is important to use mirrors sparingly, as too many mirrors can make the room feel cluttered and disorienting.
When choosing mirrors for your long narrow living room, choose mirrors that are large and framed in a simple, understated style. Avoid mirrors with ornate frames or heavy embellishments, as these can make the room feel smaller. You should also choose mirrors that are placed at eye level or slightly higher, as this will help to reflect light and make the room feel larger.
By incorporating mirrors into your long narrow living room, you can create the illusion of more space and make the room feel more inviting and spacious.
Use light colors and patterns to create a sense of airiness
In a long narrow living room, it is important to use light colors and patterns to create a sense of airiness and spaciousness. Light colors reflect light, making the room feel larger and brighter. Patterns can also be used to create the illusion of more space, but it is important to choose patterns that are small and simple.
- Use light-colored walls: Light-colored walls will reflect light and make the room feel larger. Avoid using dark colors, as these will absorb light and make the room feel smaller and more cramped.
- Choose light-colored furniture and decor: Light-colored furniture and decor will also help to create a sense of airiness. Avoid using dark or heavy furniture, as these can make the room feel smaller.
- Use sheer curtains or blinds: Sheer curtains or blinds will allow light to filter into the room while still providing privacy. Avoid using heavy or opaque curtains, as these will block out light and make the room feel darker and smaller.
- Use mirrors to reflect light: Mirrors can be used to reflect light and make the room feel larger. Hang mirrors on walls that are perpendicular to the long axis of the room. This will help to reflect light from windows and make the room feel wider.
By following these tips, you can use light colors and patterns to create a sense of airiness and spaciousness in your long narrow living room.
Add plants to bring life and color to the room
Adding plants to a long narrow living room is a great way to bring life and color to the space. Plants can help to purify the air, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. They can also be used to add a touch of style and personality to the room.
When choosing plants for a long narrow living room, it is important to consider the amount of light that the room receives. Some plants, such as succulents and cacti, can thrive in low-light conditions, while others, such as ferns and orchids, need more light to flourish. It is also important to choose plants that are proportionate to the size of the room. Large plants can overwhelm a small space, while small plants can get lost in a large space.
One way to add plants to a long narrow living room is to place them on shelves or windowsills. This is a great way to display plants without taking up too much floor space. You can also use hanging planters to add a touch of greenery to the room. Hanging planters are especially effective in corners, where they can help to soften the angles and create a more inviting space.
Another way to add plants to a long narrow living room is to create a vertical garden. Vertical gardens are a great way to add a lot of greenery to a small space. They can be created using a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic. You can also use repurposed items, such as old pallets or crates, to create a unique and stylish vertical garden.
By adding plants to your long narrow living room, you can create a space that is both stylish and inviting. Plants can help to improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost your mood. They can also add a touch of color and personality to the room.
Install adequate lighting to brighten dark corners
In a long narrow living room, it is important to install adequate lighting to brighten dark corners and create a more inviting space. Dark corners can make the room feel smaller and more cramped, and they can also be a safety hazard.
- Use a variety of light sources: Don’t rely on a single overhead light to illuminate your living room. Instead, use a variety of light sources to create a more layered and inviting lighting scheme. This could include table lamps, floor lamps, and wall sconces. You can also use recessed lighting or track lighting to highlight specific areas of the room.
- Choose the right bulbs: The type of bulb you choose can make a big difference in the overall feel of the room. For a warm and inviting atmosphere, choose bulbs with a warm color temperature (2700K-3000K). For a brighter, more energizing space, choose bulbs with a cool color temperature (4000K-5000K). You may also want to consider using dimmable bulbs so that you can adjust the brightness of the light to suit your needs.
- Place lights strategically: When placing lights, think about the areas of the room that you want to highlight and the activities that you will be doing in the space. For example, you may want to place a table lamp next to your reading chair or a floor lamp in the corner of the room where you relax. You should also make sure to place lights in dark corners to brighten them up.
- Use reflective surfaces: Reflective surfaces, such as mirrors and metallic finishes, can help to bounce light around the room and make it feel larger. Place mirrors opposite windows or light sources to reflect light into dark corners. You can also use metallic finishes on furniture and accessories to add a touch of glamour and reflect light.
By following these tips, you can install adequate lighting to brighten dark corners and create a more inviting and spacious living room.
Accessorize with items that add personality and warmth
Accessories are a great way to add personality and warmth to a long narrow living room. They can be used to reflect your personal style, create a certain mood or atmosphere, and add a touch of color and interest to the space. When choosing accessories for your long narrow living room, keep the following tips in mind:
Choose accessories that are proportionate to the size of the room: Large accessories can overwhelm a small space, while small accessories can get lost in a large space. Choose accessories that are proportionate to the size of your living room and that will create a sense of balance and harmony.
Use accessories to create focal points: Accessories can be used to create focal points and draw the eye to certain areas of the room. For example, you could place a large piece of artwork on a wall, or you could group together a collection of small objects on a coffee table. By creating focal points, you can add visual interest to the room and make it more inviting.
Use accessories to add color and texture: Accessories can be used to add color and texture to a long narrow living room. For example, you could add a colorful rug to the floor, or you could place a throw blanket on the sofa. You could also add texture to the room by using accessories made from natural materials, such as wood, stone, or wool.
By following these tips, you can use accessories to add personality, warmth, and visual interest to your long narrow living room. Accessories can help to create a space that is both stylish and inviting.
