Credit: homesandgardens.com
Inspired by this design? Book a call with Idil today.
Living in a cosy apartment or a quaint bungalow doesn't mean sacrificing movie nights or cosy evenings curled up with a good show. With some clever planning and space-saving tricks, you can create a stylish and functional living room that comfortably accommodates a TV, even if square footage is limited. Here's a comprehensive guide about small living room ideas with a TV:
Small Living Room Ideas with a TV — Time to Style
The key to styling a small living room with a TV is embracing minimalism. Forget bulky furniture that overwhelms the space and excessive decorations that create a cluttered feel. Instead, focus on sleek, clean lines and furniture that serves multiple purposes. This doesn't mean your living room needs to feel sterile – it's all about striking a balance between functionality and style.
A low-profile TV mounted on the wall is a great way to free up valuable floor space. This allows for a more open layout and makes the room feel less cramped. Consider mounting the TV at eye level for optimal viewing comfort. Think beyond the standard TV stand – explore space-saving alternatives like floating shelves or a streamlined console table underneath. These options provide storage for media devices or display decorative items without crowding the room.
Adding a touch of greenery with a strategically placed houseplant or two can further enhance the feeling of openness and vibrancy. Opt for plants that thrive in low light conditions if natural light is limited. Area rugs can add warmth and define the living space, but go for a size that doesn't overpower the room. Choose a rug with a geometric pattern or light-coloured base to create a sense of spaciousness.
Credit: lorddecor.com
Want to achieve a similar look in your living room? Book a consultation with Sam today.
Choosing the Right TV Style and Size for Your Small Living Room
A TV shouldn't dominate a small living room; it should integrate seamlessly into the space. Here's where size becomes crucial. Before heading to the electronics store, measure the distance between your seating area and the intended TV location. The general rule is that a larger TV requires a greater viewing distance. For optimal comfort, experts recommend a viewing distance of roughly 1.5 to 2.5 times the screen's diagonal measurement. So, if you're considering a 50-inch TV, aim for a viewing distance of around 7.5 to 12.5 feet.
Once you have a rough idea of the ideal size, consider your viewing habits. If you primarily watch movies and shows, a larger TV might be a good fit. However, if you mainly use the TV for casual viewing or background noise, a smaller screen might suffice. Think about the resolution as well – a higher resolution like 4K will provide a sharper picture on a larger screen.
For a modern look, consider a frameless TV that seamlessly blends into the background. These TVs have minimal bezels around the screen, creating a sleek and contemporary aesthetic. Another option to explore is a TV with a built-in mount that allows for tilting or swivelling, which can be particularly useful in small living rooms where you might need to adjust the viewing angle depending on your seating arrangement.
Credit: apartmenttherapy.com
Need help choosing the right design for your living room? Ask Jen today.
Looking for inspiring ideas for your living room? Read our article about coffee tables or dive into the world of media walls.
Selecting the Perfect Sofa or Armchair
Seating is key in any living room, but especially so in a compact one. Since space is a premium, it's crucial to choose furniture that offers both comfort and functionality. Forget about bulky traditional sofas that overwhelm the room. Instead, think about space-saving options like a loveseat or two armchairs. A loveseat provides ample seating for two people without taking up as much space as a full-size sofa.
Consider furniture with built-in storage – ottomans with hidden compartments are a great way to keep throws, blankets, and other living room essentials organised and out of sight. You can also explore options like futons that can double as a bed for guests or a chaise lounge that offers a comfortable spot to relax and read.
When choosing seating, pay attention to the scale of the furniture in relation to the size of the room. Opt for pieces with exposed legs that create an illusion of more space by allowing you to see beneath the furniture. This creates a sense of visual lightness and prevents the room from feeling weighed down. Consider furniture with clean lines and a simple design – avoid pieces with bulky arms or excessive cushioning, which can make the space feel cluttered.
Credit: realhomes.com
Want to create a healthy home? Book a call with Charlie today.
Coffee Tables, Shelves, and Bookshelves – Every Piece Counts
Every piece of furniture in a small living room needs to earn its spot. There's no room for unnecessary clutter, so prioritise functionality and multi-purpose furniture. A coffee table is a living room staple, but in a small space, it's crucial to choose one that doesn't ...dominate the walking area. Opt for a coffee table with storage compartments to keep clutter at bay. Lift-top coffee tables offer additional functionality, providing a convenient surface for working on a laptop or enjoying a meal. Choose a coffee table with a glass or clear top to create an illusion of openness and allow light to flow through the space.
Floating shelves or a narrow console table behind the sofa provide additional storage without overwhelming the space. These surfaces can house books, magazines, decorative items, or even small potted plants. Opt for open shelving over closed cabinets to maintain a sense of airiness. You can add decorative baskets or bins on the shelves for concealed storage.
If opting for bookshelves, consider a vertical design that draws the eye upwards, making the ceiling feel higher. Corner bookshelves are another space-saving option, maximising unused corners and providing valuable storage. For a more contemporary look, explore wall-mounted shelves that create a floating effect and add a touch of visual interest.
Choosing the Best Paint Colour for a Small Living Room Wall
Light and airy colours are your best friend in a small living room. These colours reflect light and make the space feel more open and expansive. White is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It creates a clean and bright foundation for your living room. If you prefer a touch of warmth, consider light grey or beige. These neutral tones provide a calming and sophisticated backdrop without making the room feel closed in.
If you crave a bit of colour, consider an accent wall in a soft pastel shade. Pale blues, greens, or lavenders can add a touch of personality without overwhelming the space. Another option is to incorporate a light-coloured base paint with a white trim. This creates a clean and crisp look that helps to visually define the space.
Credit: thespruce.com
In love with this sofa design? Chat with Jamie today.
Our Final Thoughts
Creating a stylish and comfortable living room with a TV in a compact space is all about clever planning and smart furniture choices. Embrace minimalism, prioritise function over form, and utilise light colours to create an illusion of more space. Don't be afraid to get creative with furniture arrangements and explore space-saving solutions like ottomans with storage or floating shelves.
With a little planning and these tips in mind, you can transform your small living room into a haven for relaxation and entertainment, proving that good things really do come in small packages.
Need help designing your living room? Book one of our Interior Design Gurus for a 30-minute video call. Transforming your home into a space you love shouldn't be a daunting task. With HiiGuru you can save time, avoid costly mistakes and bring your goals to life with experts by your side.
Comments