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Small living room bookcase design dilemma

last year


We have a small living room with a sort of sideways set-up. I'd like to add a bookshelf in the space to the left of the couch but I'm not sure which way to orient the bookshelf. Do I orient it so you see the books when you walk into the room? Or so you see the books when you're facing the couch? Or do I angle a bookshelf? Or get a corner bookshelf? I'm at a loss. I am planning to move the pictures and plant as well as the dog bed so please ignore those in the picture (the pack-n-play is also a short-term accessory). I'd also love any design ideas for the light fixture or any other advice this amazing community has to share about how to design the space.

Comments (9)

  • last year

    Hi, there … can you show all sides of the room?

    In the meantime, could it go on this wall for easier access?



  • last year

    Thanks for the feedback! There's an entrance to the kitchen next to the other wall and, unfortunately, it's not deep enough to fit a bookshelf (at least all of the one's I've found have been too deep for that wall - it's only 9" deep). Here's a more comprehensive view of the space:


  • last year
    last modified: last year

    The video is great! Very helpful. Such a charming house!

    I’m just thinking that corner would be super tight for accessing the bookcase … is there any way you could move the sectional (and rug with it) over some? Just to open that corner up more?

    As far as placement, I’d either find a corner unit or have it facing the sofa.

  • last year

    I can definitely shift the sectional over to the right a bit to open the space up a bit. I wonder if I could line up the left side of the couch with the window to open that space up even more so the kids have a place to play. Little homes are cozy but so hard!

  • last year
    last modified: last year

    I get it! We downsized and it’s been challenging.

    Another idea — a long-ish (move the corner chair) console for the TV that has shelving and storage for books and such? Or would it stick out in the room too much?

  • last year

    I love that idea! I think I worry that it might feel too cluttered with another piece of furniture there, but it would be a great space to utilize if I could make it work. I think I'd need something about 60" wide and max 15" deep which is hard to find!

  • last year

    I would not use a bookshelf - instead, get a long, low cabinet to set under the tv. Make sure it is about 30% longer than your tv.

  • last year

    Have you looked on Wayfair? I've found quite a few pieces on that site.

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