Furnishing a living room can be a very difficult task. Most people go into it thinking that small couches, a coffee table, and a television will be all that they’ll need. Then they purchase those things and, as time progresses, they’ll realize that maybe the furniture is too bright for the winter, or there is some undesirable open space, or there’s just something missing that they can’t quite put their finger on. Here are some points to consider when planning out a blue print for your living room.

• Spacing – it may seem a tedious task, but measuring the floor space in your living room is a great way to avoid the terribly vexing task of returning furniture upon discovering it doesn’t fit. Bring a tape measure to furniture stores if you have to, and don’t forget to account for space you’ll need to stretch out your legs or walk by without disrupting the line of vision for the television.
• Furniture pieces – there are so many pieces of furniture that can add to your living room. Before using up the space you have, try to think which pieces will add the most to your comfort. Some items you might not have considered are ottomans, hammocks, recliners, small sofas or massage chairs
• Table space – depending on how often you have guests or how many decorative pieces you want to have on display in your home, you’ll have to calculate the amount of table space you’ll need. It is also worth noting that more table space will usually require more dusting.
• Lighting – if you have lots of natural light in your living room, you’ll have to orient your home entertainment system so the television doesn’t have too much glare. Also, natural light will affect the aura of your room depending on the weather. You may want to invest in couches that work season-round of just sofa slip covers.

Written by Asher Briggs