Layout Ideas: Deciding on a Sofa or Sectional For an Open Living Space
Often the trickiest part of designing a space is finding the right layout. In our “Layout Guides” series you’ll find layout solutions for rooms of all shapes and sizes. From the square-shaped to the narrow to the just plain awkward, this is your one-stop shop for layout ideas that work.
The Homeowners: A couple with a two-year-old son.
The Space: A 22’ x 25’ open living space used everyday and for everything.
The Challenge: Designing a kid-friendly space that’s also stylish, and figuring out what couch/seating layout would work best for the space – a sofa or sectional.
Idea #1: The Conversation Ring Layout
Layout idea #1 opts for a sofa with extra chairs sprinkled all around. The space feels more decorated is perfect for entertaining and conversation. This layout also helps shift the focus away from the TV as the main feature of the room.
Why It Works:
- The sofa is perfect for low-key family nights but it can still easily accommodate lots of guests when entertaining.
- Pulling in standalone chairs makes for a flexible layout. Easily reconfigure your layout for game night or pull a chair to another room in your home as needed.
- The sofa frees up a lot of walking room in and around the seating area.
- A round table checks the box for a super kid-friendly centerpiece.
This Is Great If You…
- Enjoy having people over for drinks and conversation as opposed to movie marathons.
- Prefer a living room that’s more open and has a slightly formal and designed look to it.
- Want a living space that doesn’t revolve around TV-watching.
See the layout idea #1 in 360!
Idea #2: The Viewing Corner Layout
Layout idea #2 opts for a sectional. This helps to define the living area as a cozy corner where you can totally lounge out. the sectional also helps turn the space into a TV lounge area with a casual atmosphere.
Why It Works:
- The sectional helps clearly delineate the seating area from the rest of the space, making it feel like a room within a room.
- A huge tiered coffee table provides practical storage space for you to stash remotes and other tech gadgets out of sight.
- The bigger the sectional the more pillows you can have. Pile them on for lots of cushy support!
- This layout factors in lots of extra lighting as well, which means you can set the mood as needed.
This Is Great If You…
- Want to have a clearly defined living space that doesn’t face the entry area.
- Mainly use your living space for watching TV and movies with family and friends.
- Enjoy a more laid-back and relaxed living room where you can lie down and stretch out your legs.
See the layout idea #2 in 360!
Need help finding the best layout for your space?
I love idea #1 so much. Could you please add the shopping list of all the items of idea #1? I am really struggling to find it one by one. Thanks a lot.
Wow! I absolutely love the sectional look! Where are the end tables/ accent pillows from?
Where did you get the three drawer console?
Hey there!
You can find something similar at any of the major low-end home decor retailers such as Home Goods, Pier One, TJMaxx, Target, Walmart, Costco, Rooms 2 Go, Kmart, Ashley Furniture, etc.
We have a ton of affordable options for home goods and furniture that can be purchased directly through Modsy!
Where are those round glass and golf side tables from on each ends of the sectional?
Love this article! I like these ideas. I am totally inspired by your work. Thanks and keep sharing.
Where is that entry way bench from?
Hi Sam, thanks for asking! It’s the Wilson Bench from Pottery Barn. You can check it out here or see how it looks in your exact space (and shop it with exclusive discounts) through Modsy. Happy styling!
Wow!! what a splendid artwork!! I think the conversation ring layout is nowadays trending. In fact, you can even add circular sofa to add more flavor to the style. Your writing style is same as your decor i.e. warm and neutral. Thanks for sharing such awesome styles.
Your ideas are superb and would be really helpful for me as I am thinking to buy a sectional sofa.
Hello! Where’s that large piece of art in the second piece above the kitchen table from? Same with the piece next to the front door?
Hi James, thanks for asking! The piece above the dining table is from Pier 1 (currently on sale!) and you can check it out here. The piece by the door is from art .com and you can see it here!