You begin by drawing the room, and using a measuring tape, you add the dimensions. You post it here. You include the size of hearth, windows, and especially the opening to kitchen and hall area. Nobody can see around a corner here.

You ask , am I going to have a tv? How many folks will sit, What will they sit on, and where will I put that seating? What size will that seating be? It isn't going to look good, or be passable to foot traffic, with much more than a sofa, and two comfortable chairs. Take the sectional word out of your head, from the looks of the photo.

You ask yourself, how do I want the room to feel- what's my style?

And the first thing you consider, BEFORE running to any store, is unifying the hardwood and eliminating the edge to edge carpet in the space. Then you consider losing chocolate brown walls : )

Beautiful. Is this the main tv room? Does the fireplace work? Are you fireplace people? Do you have children? Is there a second family room?

We are a family of 5, kids ages 4-10. We will want a tv in this room and yes the fireplace is natural gas and works and will be used in winter months. The mantle has an electric outlet and there is also one a few inches up on the stone but so many people say not to do fireplace tv but I’m undecided. There is a small den that blends almost seamlessly in the kitchen that we will set up with a tv, couch and small chair just for a second place to sit. I’m also thinking more on a wherein Williams perfect greige paint color.

I would set the small family room by the kitchen for myself and the big living room for the kids. The big tv with the gaming systems and surround sound for movies. Toys, a big sectional for hanging out, a coffee table big enough for games and puzzles.

Best money ever spent? Unify the flooring, lighten up the walls.