LIVING ROOM LAYOUTS Ensure

Debbie’s choice: LIVING ROOM LAYOUTS

When it comes to a functional living space it’s all about positioningyourfurnitureintherightway

Whether you want a living

room for lounging, somewhere to entertain, or both, there are a few basic principles to get right when it comes to arranging your furniture. These designer tips will help you make the most of your room’s potential.

Think about how you use the room

How you’re going to use the room – for watching TV, the kids doing homework, or entertaining friends – will dictate what lighting, seating and storage you need. ‘I’d always start with what the actual lines of sight are when using the room,’ says TV presenter Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. Choose a focal point

‘In a family room, a TV is often the focal point,’ says Charlie Marshall, founder of Loaf. ‘But it’s one of the things I hate to see, especially mounted above the fireplace. That should be for something beautiful, like a mirror or painting.’ Give the furniture space

Should furniture go against the wall? Our experts disagree. ‘It depends on the size of the room,’ says Charlie. ‘It does maximise space to arrange it that way.’

Laurence thinks differently: ‘If you can – even if it’s just a few inches – make sure it’s not against the wall. It limits the sense of space, making the room look smaller.’ Create a sense of balance

Stand back and view the room as you would a picture. A sofa opposite a pair of armchairs with upholstered pouffes works well to balance a room. The trick is not to group too much furniture in one area. Avoid common mistakes

‘Your home should really reflect your personality,’ says Charlie. ‘You don’t have to make a room look larger, so opt for darker colours to make it cosy instead.’

Laurence advises against using a chimney breast as a feature wall: ‘It’s already a dominant piece of architecture.’

An extended hearth with built-in storage adds character to an open-plan space