21 Life-Changing Ideas to Make a Big Couch Work in a Small Living Room

Photo by Erin Hoopes

This post is about the best small living room big couch ideas.

You just bought the most beautiful couch you’ve ever seen. It’s big, it’s comfortable, and it’s perfect for your family. There’s just one problem: your living room is on the small side. How can you make this work? Don’t worry, we have the best small living room big couch ideas! Read on for our top tips on how to make a big couch work in a small living room!

Tip 1: Start with a blank slate

The first step to making your small living room feel more spacious is to clear out the living room entirely. This may seem counterintuitive, but removing furniture and other items from the room will actually make it feel larger.

Plus, it will allow you to declutter and eliminate items you no longer use or need.

small living room big couch
Photo by Breegle Abbey Carpet & Floor

Once you’ve cleared out the living room, you can start working on arranging the furniture in a way that makes the most of the space. For example, if you have a couch and two chairs, try positioning them in a U-shape so that everyone can view the TV well.

Or, if you have a coffee table and an end table, try putting them on opposite sides of the room to create more open space in the middle.

By arranging your furniture thoughtfully, you can make even the smallest living room feel comfortable and welcoming.



Tip 2: If possible, float a big couch away from the wall

Having a big couch in a small living room can be tricky. You don’t want the couch to overpower the room and make it feel cramped, but you also don’t want it to look out of place.

One way to achieve the perfect balance is to “float” the couch away from the wall. This means that instead of putting the couch directly against the wall, you leave a few inches of space between them.

This has a few benefits. First, it makes the room look bigger and more open. Second, it gives you more flexibility when arranging your furniture. And third, it makes it easier to clean around the couch.

Photo by Cindy McCarley Designs

Tip 3: Angle a big couch in your small living room

Need more small living room big couch ideas? If you can’t float it in the middle of the room, try placing it at an angle. This will help open the space and make the room feel larger.

You can also try using furniture placement to create a focal point. For example, you could place your couch in front of a window or fireplace.

Doing this will draw the eye to that area of the room and make the space feel more balanced.

With a little creativity, you can make even the smallest living room feel spacious and inviting.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo by Michelle Pheasant Design, Inc.

Tip 4: Make sure there’s enough room to walk around

One way to ensure there’s enough room to walk around is to measure the dimensions of your living room before you go furniture shopping. That way, you’ll know exactly how much space you have to work with.

You can also try arranging your furniture in different ways until you find a spacious and comfortable layout. For example, you might want to push your couch against one wall and put your coffee table in front of it.

Or, you could try putting your couch in the middle of the room and adding a couple of chairs or loveseats around it. Experiment until you find a layout that works for your space.

Photo by Terracotta Design Build

Tip 5: Use light and airy colors

A dark couch will absorb light and make the room feel smaller, while a light-colored couch will reflect light and help brighten up the space. If you’re unsure what color to choose, opt for a neutral like beige or grey. These colors go with everything and will help to create a feeling of openness in the room.

Using light and airy colors will help to make even the tiniest room feel more open and spacious. Pastel shades are a great choice, as they can help to create a calming and serene atmosphere.

If you want to add a pop of color, consider using a brighter shade on one wall or in a few accent pieces.

Using light colors doesn’t mean that your room has to be dull – you can still add visual interest by mixing and matching different textures and patterns. For example, pairing a light-colored couch with velvet throw pillows can add a touch of luxury.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo credit

Tip 6: Don’t forget about the power of accessories

You’re not alone if you’ve ever felt like your big couch was swallowing up your small living room. It’s a common issue, but it can be easily solved with the power of accessories.

A few well-placed throw pillows can help to fill out the couch and make the room feel more balanced. Likewise, a blanket or piece of art hung on the wall above the couch can also help to create a sense of proportion.

And don’t forget about using smaller pieces of furniture to your advantage. A coffee table or end table proportional to the couch can help ground the piece and make the room feel more inviting.

You can turn your small living room into a cozy and stylish space with some creativity.

Photo by Crowell + Co. Interiors

Tip 7: Add mirrors to a small living room

When you have a small living room, finding the right balance of furniture can be tricky. You want enough pieces to make the space feel cozy and inviting, but you don’t want so much furniture that it feels cramped and crowded.

One way to achieve balance when adding an oversized couch is to add mirrors. A big couch will anchor the space and make it feel more substantial, while mirrors will reflect light and make the room brighter and more open.

Plus, when you position the mirrors strategically, they can also help to create the illusion of more space. So if you’re struggling with how to furnish your small living room, don’t be afraid to go big—just be sure to add some mirrors, too.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo by Born & Bred Studio

Tip 8: Keep the rest of the furniture simple

One of the easiest ways to decorate a small living room with a big couch is to keep the rest of your furniture simple. The sofa is often one of the largest pieces of furniture in a room, and it can quickly dominate the space. By keeping the other pieces simple, you can help to create an airy and open feeling in the room.

Try using a coffee table and end table that are both slim and close to the ground. And if possible, choose chairs or stools that can be tucked away when not in use.

By following these tips, you can help make your small living room feel stylish and spacious.

sectional in small living room
Photo by home by red door

Tip 9: Use area rugs

One of the most common small living room complaints is that big furniture looks out of place. When you have a small living room, buying the tiniest couch you can find can be tempting.

However, this can often make the room feel even smaller and leave you feeling cramped and uncomfortable.

Instead of a small couch, use an area rug to define the seating area. This will help anchor the furniture and make the space more unified.

Additionally, use light-colored rugs or rugs with playful patterns to help give the illusion of more space.

With some thought, you can turn your small living room into a stylish and inviting space.

Photo by One Kings Lane

Tip 10: Bring in natural light

Bringing in natural light is one way to make your living room appear larger. Light can make a room feel more open and airy, while darkness absorbs light. Mirrors can also reflect natural light and create the illusion of more space.

Consider adding a skylight or solar tube if your living room lacks windows. By letting in more light, you can make your small living room feel bigger and brighter, regardless of the size of your sofa.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo by Dandeneau Architecture P.L.L.C.

Tip 11: Hang curtains high

Consider hanging your curtains high and close to the ceiling. This will create the illusion of taller windows and make the room feel more spacious.

Another trick is to opt for furniture with slender legs and avoid overly bulky pieces or excessive ornamentation.

Following these simple tips can make even the smallest living room feel more open and inviting.

mirrors in small living room
Photo by Miranda White Studio

Tip 12: Use floating shelves in a small living room

Most people want their living room to be spacious and open, but sometimes that’s impossible. If you have a small living room and a big sofa, there are actually quite a few ways to make the most of your space.

One great option is to use floating shelves. You can free up valuable floor space by mounting shelves directly onto the wall. This is a great way to display photographs, art, or even just your favorite books.

And because the shelves are mounted high up on the wall, they won’t interfere with your sofa or other furniture. So if you’re looking for a way to make your small living room feel more spacious, floating shelves are a great option.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo by LUX Design | Interior Design Build

Tip 13: Get creative with storage

If you have a small living room, you may feel like your options are limited when it comes to furniture. You might not be able to fit much more than a couch and a coffee table.

However, if you get creative with storage, you can maximize your small space. For example, you can use ottomans as coffee tables or keep blankets and pillows in baskets.

You can also look for sofas with built-in storage, such as drawers or shelves.

You can turn your small living room into a cozy and inviting space by maximizing your storage space.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo by Raykon Construction

Tip 14: Borrow space from other rooms

Everyone loves a big, comfortable sofa. However, if you have a small living room, finding one that fits without making the space feel cramped can be challenging. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t despair – there are ways to make it work.

One option is to borrow space from other rooms in your house. For example, if you have a large dining room, you could move the sofa into that room and use your living room as a more intimate seating area.

Alternatively, if you have an unused bedroom, you could turn it into a cozy den or TV room and use your living room as a formal sitting area.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo by Outrageous Interiors

You can find a way to make even the biggest sofa work, even if you have a small living room.

Tip 15: Be strategic with furniture placement

Finally, if you have a small living room, it’s essential to strategically place your furniture. Make sure each piece has a purpose and contributes to the space’s overall feel.

Try not to cram too much in one area; instead, spread out your pieces so they’re evenly distributed. This will help create a sense of balance and prevent the room from feeling cluttered.

You may also want to position your furniture near windows or other natural light sources. Natural light can make even the smallest space feel bigger, so don’t forget to take advantage of it!

Photo by David Michael Miller Associates

Tip 16: Bring in more light

Natural light is one of the best ways to make a small living room feel more spacious. If you can’t get enough natural light, you can also bring in additional lighting to help brighten the room.

Consider adding wall lights or table lamps that blend into your decor. You may also want to invest in a floor lamp or a standing light to help add more visibility.

Adding additional lighting can also help create a softer, more inviting atmosphere in your living room. You can make even the smallest space seem larger with the right combination of natural and artificial lighting.

small living room ideas
Photo by John Kraemer & Sons

Tip 17: Make use of vertical space

Another great way to maximize a small living room is to use vertical space. This means taking advantage of high ceilings and finding ways to add storage or furniture higher.

You could hang shelves, hooks, or wall art on unused wall space. Or you could opt for taller pieces of furniture like bookcases, armoires, and even bar carts.

When it comes to making the most of a small space, vertical space can be a great way to get creative and maximize your living room’s potential.

Photo by Huntington House

Tip 18: Choose the right colors

Color is an integral factor when decorating a tiny living room. Dark colors can make a room feel cramped, while lighter shades can help open up the space and make it seem roomier.

Consider using a neutral palette with light tones like whites, creams, and pastels to create an airy atmosphere. You may also want to add some pops of brighter colors throughout the room for visual interest.

By keeping your decor neutral, you can make the most of your available space and create a bright and inviting living room.

Photo by Samson Mikahel

Tip 19: Choose appropriate furniture

Choosing the right furniture for a small living room is essential to making it feel spacious and comfortable. Oversized couches may look nice in large living rooms but can easily overwhelm a small space. Instead, opt for smaller pieces like an accent chair or side tables that don’t take up too much room.

You may also consider investing in furniture with longer legs and a sleek style to utilize the vertical space and create the illusion of a larger room.

Tip 20: Try a Window Seat

If you have a window in your living room, consider adding a window seat. Window seats are great for small living rooms because they provide additional seating without taking up too much floor space.

Plus, they can add an inviting and cozy touch to your decor. Choose comfortable cushions and pillows in soft colors to create the perfect landing spot.

By making the most of your space with clever furniture placement, extra lighting, and a neutral color palette, you can create a small living room that feels both spacious and inviting.

Photo by Molly McGinness Interior Design

Tip 21: Avoid a large coffee table

A large coffee table can easily take up a lot of precious floor space in a small living room. Instead, opt for smaller tables that can be tucked away when not in use.

You can also try out an ottoman with storage inside or a set of side tables to help create visual space while providing additional surface area.

Avoiding a large coffee table can open up more room to walk around and make your living space feel larger.

Photo by TVL Creative Ltd.

Conclusion

When furnishing a small living room, it’s essential to balance comfort and practicality. An oversized couch might look inviting, but you’ll feel cramped if it takes up too much space. On the other hand, a small couch might not be very comfortable for relaxing. The key is to find a piece that fits your space without cramping your style.

Using these simple tips and tricks, a large sofa can work well in a small living room. You can make your small living room feel more spacious and inviting by hanging curtains high, using floating shelves, and getting creative with storage. With a little bit of planning — and these small living room big couch ideas — you can turn your small living room into a comfortable and stylish space that the whole family will love!



FAQs

Which type of sofa is best for small living room?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best type of sofa for a small living room will depend on the layout of the space and your personal style preferences. However, some general tips that might help include opting for a sofa with slender legs and avoiding excessively bulky or ornate pieces.

You might also want to consider a sofa with built-in storage, which can help to maximize your space.

Photo by Casa Suma

How can I make my small living room look bigger?

There are a few simple tricks that you can use to make a small living room look bigger. First, try hanging curtains high and using light colors on the walls. You might also consider using floating shelves and getting creative with storage.

Finally, make sure to choose furniture that is the right size for the space. Following these tips, you can turn the smallest living room into a spacious and inviting space.

Photo by Reference Media Inc

How do I arrange furniture in a small living room?

The best way to arrange furniture in a small living room will depend on the layout of the space and your personal preferences. However, some general tips that might help include using furniture with slender legs and avoiding excessively bulky pieces.

You might also want to consider using ottomans as coffee tables and using vertical storage. You can make the most of your small living room by following these tips!

Photo by Julia Ryan

Can I put a big couch in a small living room?

Yes, you can put a big couch in a small living room. However, you will need to be careful about how you arrange the rest of your furniture.

Photo by Raymour & Flanigan Furniture and Mattresses

How do you place a large sectional in a small living room?

There are a few things to remember when placing a large sectional in a small living room. First, you’ll want to ensure the sectional is the right size for the space. Second, you’ll want to arrange the rest of your furniture so it doesn’t cramp the space.

Finally, you might consider using light colors and high hanging curtains to make the space feel more open. By following these tips, you can successfully incorporate a large sectional in a small space.

Photo by CAVdesign

How do you put a sofa in a small living room?

The best way to put a sofa in a small living room is to choose a piece that is the right size for the space. You’ll also want to be careful about arranging the rest of your furniture and make sure to use light colors and high hanging curtains to make the space feel more open.

Photo by Kathleen Bost Architecture + Design

How do you maximize seats in a small living room?

You can do a few things to maximize seats in a small living room. First, try using a sofa with built-in storage. This will help to clear up some floor space.

Alternatively, you might want to consider using a coffee table with stools or ottomans that can be used for extra seating.

Photo by Altura Architects

What if I already bought a dark-colored couch?

Don’t worry, there are still ways to make it work! If your couch is dark, try offsetting it with lighter-colored walls. To brighten things up, you can also add light and airy accents throughout the room.

small living room big couch ideas
Photo

What if my living room is a really small space?

If your living room is smaller, don’t worry – there are still ways to make it work. Try using floating shelves to display photographs or other decorations. You can also use Ottomans as coffee tables and look for sofas with built-in storage.

small living room
Photo

Do I have to use a couch in my compact living room?

No, you don’t have to use a couch! If you’re short on space, use a loveseat or futon instead. You could also look for sofas with built-in storage to make the most of your small room to feel like you have room to relax and entertain guests.

no sofa in small living room
Photo by studiovert environmental + interior design

If I have a tiny space, should I buy larger pieces of furniture?

Well, it depends. If you have a tiny living room, it might be best to stick with smaller furniture that won’t make the space feel cramped or cluttered.

However, if you’re looking for a statement piece, more oversized furniture can still work in small spaces – just be sure to plan out your layout carefully so that everything fits and looks balanced!

small living room furniture arrangement
Photo by Viscusi Elson Interior Design

How can floor space be preserved in a small living space?

Use wall lights instead of table lamps to preserve floor space in a small living room. You can also consider utilizing vertical storage options or opting for furniture with slender legs.

Additionally, you might want to get smaller pieces of furniture like ottomans and side tables that can be tucked away when not in use. An interior designer can also help you plan the room’s layout and ensure that your living space is maximized to its fullest potential.

natural light in small living room
Photo by Marvin Design Gallery by Eldredge Lumber

What are some small space ideas for a living room?

There are many small space ideas for living rooms. One idea is to use an accent chair that won’t take up too much visual space. This way, you can create a cozy and relaxing spot without worrying about bulky furniture.

You might also want to consider using an oversized couch with slim legs so that it takes up less floor space. Additionally, look for small side tables and try placing large coffee tables at the center of the room rather than against a wall. Finally, use plenty of wall art and table lamps to bounce light around the room and make it feel larger.

Photo by Court Atkins Group

Is my small living space going to be okay?

Absolutely! You can make the most of your small living space. Try using lighter colors and soft furnishings to make the room feel bigger. Utilize vertical space with floating shelves and cabinets, and don’t forget to use smaller pieces of furniture that won’t take up too much visual or physical space. With careful planning, you can make even the smallest living room work for your family.

Photo by Brittany Stiles Design

What are the best small living room ideas?

Small living rooms present a unique challenge—making the most of limited space and creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. One way to do this is to maximize the vertical space in your room. This can be done through wall lights, accent chairs, and even a small sofa with a wooden frame. A large glass coffee table can also create visual space, while side tables and table lamps provide additional light and storage space. Wall art and other décor can add character to the room and free up floor space.

loveseat in small living room
Photo by LABLstudio

Is it possible to put a large sofa in a narrow living room?

Furnishing a narrow living room can be tricky, but it is possible. You can ensure your sofa fits perfectly with thoughtful planning and consideration of the entire space. If possible, look for an oversized couch with a lower profile and narrow arms to maximize precious floor space. To add more texture and color to the room, opt for an accent chair or two and leave enough room in the center of the living area to create a sense of balance.

light colored furniture in small living room area
Photo by Sheila Rich Interiors, LLC