It is the point that asks for attention when we enter the room for the first time. Designers Alison Vanderpool and Ariana Villalta of The Elegant Abode suggest starting there. “Make sure you always start with a main focal point and start placing furniture from there,” Vanderpool says. “Don’t be afraid to place your furniture in the middle of the room. A decent-sized rug will ground you and create a more comfortable feel.” Vanderpool and Villalta start with upholstered pieces, first of all, to outline a pleasing seating arrangement. They like to use two matching sofas, facing each other, or a sofa with two armchairs to encourage interaction and engagement with others in the room.
To make sure there’s always room for more, “ottomans can also be a great addition to seating and can be easily moved around,” Vanderpool says. Poufs, coffee tables, occasional tables, and other portable surfaces lend the room a pleasant atmosphere, ensuring that there is always a nearby surface for a book, drink, lamp, tray, or vase. These are the pieces that capture all of our stuff—the things that are worthwhile, that engage and encourage us outside of the rush of everyday commitments. “Focus on the living part,” advises designer Andrea Brooks.
“Make these rooms livable, with comfortable, deep upholstery and cozy yet durable fabrics. I love using chairs that rotate when you have multiple seating areas. And I love my big ottoman—it’s mobile, inviting to sit on, and you can put your feet up whenever you want.” So play with the arrangement of your furniture. Pull up a chair, put your feet up, and find an arrangement that encourages life in your living room.