Do I need new furniture or a different way of envisioning this space?

5 years ago

last modified: 5 years ago

We've lived here for over 10 years and this narrow living room has never felt "right". The previous owners took the wall down between the living room and back bedroom, leaving a long, narrow space to work with. This is a traditional cape-style home. We can get new furniture (sectional, accent chairs, etc.?), put in built-in's (next to the back window or next to the fireplace?) or even make the back window bigger and less bedroom-sized. Besides kids toys, I haven't had a purposeful use of the back room. I've tried placing furniture opposite of the fireplace (thinking of putting the TV on that very long wall next to it) but that also feels "off" because of the staircase.

Would making the back area more of a sitting room with 2 accent chairs and a round ottoman help? I'm usually not this inept at decorating! The rest of the house is fantastic and my previous homes were, too!

I genuinely appreciate any ideas you all may have. My goal is to have a living room that is pleasing to the eyes, comfortable and flows.

The total length is about 25' x13' wide in the front and 10' wide in the back area.

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Comments (6)

jck910
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
Can you draw a floor plan of the area with doors & windows marked? The panoramic phot is too distorted to be helpful Thanks How many would you like to seat in the room?
Jessica T thanked jck910
PRO
Diana Bier Interiors, LLC
5 years ago
The most telling statement you made is that you don't have a purpose for the room. That is the driving force for any space--what do you want it to be? Unless you can identify that, it's going to be difficult for anyone to help.
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Jessica T
Original Author
5 years ago
Thank you for taking a look at the space. The goal is to have a living room that flows, is inviting and comfortable. We are a family of 4, but often have our extended family over and they like to gather in the living room - so seating for 6 would be nice.
Maria M.
5 years ago
Do you have to walk in front of the TV to access the hallway? Can you knock down the lower wall of the hallway (the one that is not adjacent to the closet)? If so, you could then move the TV to the opposite wall, swapping it with the sofa, but have the flow of traffic be BEHIND the sofa by NOT having it against the wall. Removing the hallway wall might give your space to move the cozy armchair in front of the fireplace. Designate the former bedroom as a piano practice / office / study area.
Jessica T
Original Author
5 years ago
I've considered that for sure as that wall next to the TV was the former living room entrance. But, I'd have to get an electrician for the electric thermostat and contractor to figure out structural considerations (load bearing). At the least, there may be a column at that corner? 🤷‍♀️
msalazar11
5 years ago
Two sitting areas? I'm picturing something very traditional and warm. TV optional.