Versatile Living Room Layouts Featuring Your Favorite Sectional
With more of us working from home and spending time relaxing at home, living room designs are in high demand. Sectional sofas can be the perfect multifunctional centerpiece to build a living room around.
Choosing the Right Sectional Size and Style
When selecting a sectional, first consider the size and layout of your living room. Measure window and doorway openings to ensure your new sectional will fit into the room. Decide if you prefer a fixed sectional or a modular design with movable pieces that enable you to modify your layout whenever needed.
Be sure to choose a sectional style that matches your existing room decor - for example, curved and plush options suit traditional spaces, while streamlined silhouettes complement modern and contemporary schemes.
Sectional Size Recommendations
Room Size | Sectional Size |
Small (10'x12') | 6-7 feet |
Medium (12'x15') | 8 feet |
Large (15'x15'+) | 10+ feet |
Arranging Sectional Layouts in Small Living Rooms
While sectionals make a bold style statement, they can overwhelm a small living room. Some smart sectional arrangements for compact spaces include:
- Floating an L-shaped sectional along one wall
- Facing two modular sectional pieces toward each other with a coffee table in between
- Incorporating storage ottomans to tuck away blankets when not in use
- Adding boldly patterned and textured throw pillows as an eye-catching focal point
Conversation-Friendly Layouts
For small living rooms where conversational flow is key, try a split sectional layout with accompanying accent chairs angled inward. This invites intimate discussion while allowing flexible seatings arrangements.
Maximizing Open Floor Plans with Sectional Placement
For more expansive living rooms, experimenting with inventive sectional arrangements can create separate zones within the open space, enabling multi-purpose functionality.
Try floating a large sectional out from the walls to encourage foot traffic flow behind it. Or, place a sectional diagonally across the corner of the room to differentiate a cozy media zone from an open pathway area.
Incorporating Accent Pieces
Flank a centrally placed sectional with accent armchairs or a loveseat to distinguish multiple seating areas within the room. This allows for both intimate and party seating configurations.
Creating Focal Points with Your Sectional
Take advantage of existing architectural focal points in your living room by arranging your sectional to showcase these design elements:
- Angle a sectional toward a brick fireplace to create a central gravitating spot
- Float a sectional perpendicular to floor-to-ceiling statement windows to direct sightlines
- Place sectional facing a large piece of statement art to draw attention to the vibrant colors and textures
Adapting Your Sectional Layout Over Time
One of the greatest advantages modular sectionals offer is the ability to modify your layout as needs change. As your lifestyle evolves, reconfigure your sectional to match your new activities and priorities. Some ideas:
- As kids grow, face sectional pieces together to create a supervised play area
- For empty nesters, expand the sectional into a U-shape for movie nights
- Rearranging sectional to follow optimal sunlight patterns through different seasons
With some advance planning and willingness to experiment, sectionals can change to match the needs of modern households. Take advantage of the versatility sectional sofas offer by utilizing creative layouts to build a living room that works for your lifestyle.