Double Your Seating: Clever Ways to Arrange Two Sectionals

With their plush cushions, modular design, and ample seating capacity, it's no wonder sectionals have become a staple in many living rooms. As more households embrace open floor plans, a popular new trend has emerged - incorporating not just one but two sectionals to maximize both seating and style.

Using two sectionals instead of a traditional sofa and loveseat configuration provides expanded lounging space for you and your guests. Plus, with some creative arranging, sectionals can help carve out separate spaces within your open concept home.

Determine the Focal Point

When starting your sectional layout, first pinpoint your living room's focal point. This may be a fireplace, large window, or eye-catching piece of art or decor. Position your sectionals to highlight this focal area.

For example, place both sectionals in an L-shape facing the focal point to create a conversational zone. Or flank the fireplace with the sectionals perpendicular to it to showcase the mantel. Identifying the heart of your space will guide optimal sectional placement.

Measure Room Dimensions

While two sectionals promise ample, flexible seating, they also take up considerable square footage. Before purchasing sectionals, carefully measure your available living room space.

Ideally each 6-8 seat sectional requires about 10-14 feet of wall space. Be sure to account for needed walkways between and around the sectionals. You want to comfortably accommodate guests without overcrowding.

Consider Different Orientations

One of the great advantages of sectionals is you can arrange them in various configurations to suit your needs.

Face both sectionals inward for intimate conversation around a central coffee table. Positioning them opposite each other with chaise lounges on the outside creates an inviting entertainment space.

Go parallel against walls to define a clear passageway. Experiment with what works best for traffic flow and functionality in your unique room.

Incorporate Additional Seating

While two sectionals provide abundant seating already, consider rounding out your living room with accent chairs, ottomans or benches.

Extra seating pieces can help divide a lengthy sectional span, making the space feel more intimate. An accent chair tucked in a corner creates a cozy reading nook. Ottomans add extra capacity for large gatherings.

Take Advantage of Built-In Storage

Many sectionals today come equipped with discreet storage space - from pull-out drawers to hidden compartments behind the cushions.

Use this storage wisely to stash TV remotes, board games, throws and other living room accessories. This keeps items handy when you need them but out of sight when you don't.

Invest in Quality Sectionals

Since sectionals are likely to get heavy use, invest in quality pieces constructed with durable frames, premium upholstery and strong joining brackets.

Higher density foam and down cushions maintain their plushness over years of lounging. Sturdy frames prevent sagging under frequent use.

Prioritize Easy Maintenance

With their expansive seating space, sectionals call for fabrics that can withstand plenty of activity. Performance velvets and synthetic microfibers resist staining, washing easily.

Leather sectionals also wipe clean beautifully, while crypton and other moisture-resistant fabrics prevent ugly water rings from marring their surface.

Focus on Adequate Lighting

Proper illumination prevents any living room from feeling too dark or enclosed. Layer ambient, task and accent lighting.

Bright overhead fixtures give overall brightness. Stylish floor and table lamps create a warm glow. Use strategically placed fixtures, like pendant lights above sectionals, for dramatic effect.

Add Accents and Accessories

While sectionals play a starring role, don't overlook accent pieces that add character and bring cohesion to the space.

An area rug visually defines the seating zone. Dramatic curtains frame windows. The right pillows and throws enhance sectional comfort and colors. Remember these touches that personalize the room.

Arrangement Inspiration for Small Spaces

Don't let limited square footage deter you from the two sectional trend. Some smart arrangements can make this work.

Place sectionals in a U-shape for intimate conversation. Position them back-to-back with a console table in between for compact lounging. A floating coffee table saves precious visual space.

Arrangement Inspiration for Large Spaces

Sprawling living rooms offer flexibility in sectional placement. Take advantage of the extra room.

An L-shaped layout helps carve out separate activity zones, like dining. Opposite walls allow for maximum walking paths. Incorporate a sofa table behind for added storage and display.

Two sectionals can make a stylish seating statement while optimizing both comfort and functionality. Keep focal point, lighting, traffic flow and accessories in mind when planning placement. Follow these tips to create a living room your guests will flock to.

You can take your living room seating to the next level with dual sectionals. More seating just means more possibilities for hanging out in style.