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paul_graves42

Bachelor living room HELP!

2 years ago

Hello all, unfortunately I’m forced to live alone again (have two daughters, 15 and 4yo) and don’t know at all what to do with this room. How to get a tv in here that’s watchable for my kids (hate looking UP to see tv above fireplace)… I JUST moved in so please forgive the clutter just don’t know how to arrange this. Anybody have similar style room? It’s a small house on an acre, love it, but haven’t had to design a room for manyyyy years. The bedroom is right off of the room and it’s also basically my entry room to home. Needs to be living/family room if possible. I can and will buy new furniture.. on a budget tho!!! Thank you kindly. I’m just lost.

Comments (9)

  • 2 years ago

    It would be a big help if you will do a sketch of the floor plan indicating entries and and other space we should be aware of. Take overall dimensions and then start in the corner and go around the room (not missing any measurement) Corner to window frame > window include frame > wall to fireplace > fireplace > wall > window > to corner. You get the idea. Would love to help.

  • 2 years ago
    last modified: 2 years ago

    First step is doing a layout of room with its dimensions/indicating structural components, which will help define options for furniture placement.


    Seating, storage, and needs (for your 4 year old especially) are your first decisions. If keeping couch, think it‘s probably best facing tv based on pictures (which of the 2 walls is better though) and additional seating for sure. Maybe look on line for inspiration/decor help. Ground the seating area with a rug if in budget, but prioritize so it doesn’t become overwhelming and definitely keep an eye out on Marketplace. Good luck.




  • 2 years ago

    First off, sorry you are alone and dealing with the stress of that. Now is the time to create a space that makes you feel happy to be in. And you and your girls can enjoy making popcorn, watching movies or doing arts and crafts together. Focus on creating joy for them and that will help you find joy for you.


    I agree with start with measurements...

    What are your favorite colors? Soft textures, a definition of your space.

    Where will you eat? Where will you rest? Watch tV?

    You need another lamp and maybe a tree, rug, pillows, wall art...


    A few other suggestions...

    Can you mount the TV on the wall ? If not just keep it on that TV stand.

    Is there a place for meals? If not think about the size and shape of that coffee table.






    Here are some IKEA things that are budget friendly items...


    $129 UPPVIND Floor lamp, nickel plated/white, 59 "



    $49 for this coffee table




    A great color combo for kids. If someone spills tomato sauce or pizza on it, it doesn't show and it brings life to the space. Fun busy colors that bring happiness to the room

    Nourison Celestial CES08 Area Rug, Atlantic, 7'10" x 10'6" · More Info

    $426

    Supersoft Throw Pillow Cover 4 Piece Set, Snorkel Blue · More Info

    $32 for 4 You might find cheaper ones at Target or even on Amazon but the idea is to get a bunch of pillow for the sofa and your girls.



    Rather than buy art... Buy large wall frames or canvases. your daughters can paint or draw and those can be for your walls.



    But use your children's art not the above photo... This frame is $17 and with 4 you could create a beautiful wall.



    Pride your daughters with Blues, Oranges, Greens so that their art goes with the rest of your space.





    Wishing you luck on your new space and making it a fun place for family



  • 2 years ago

    Great advice above - just another plug for Facebook marketplace, you can find terrific furniture & rugs on there for a steal if you’re patient -


    for me, finding a nice rug would help cozy up the space and give some guidance on other colors in the room -


    good luck with the transition and keep checking back :)

  • 2 years ago

    Definitely will second the suggestion of floor lamps. The fireplace end could be cosy with a pair of comfy chairs to curl up in, or pair with a footstool, with lamps behind. With the bookcase there with maybe some art supplies in baskets or as basketed toy storage spot. Alternatively battery operated sconces could be effective to light either side of the fireplace (between the current art placement and the windows). Play with the lamps to see how they illuminate different parts of the space - the soft shaded one could work well on the bookcase in the far corner and help guide what you purchase for that end of the room.

    Some drapery will also soften the room, you can leave the blinds in place and fit one drape panel across each window to pull back to the wall and fall to the floor. If you are renting and unable to fit rods, use the largest commander stick on hooks with the lightest curtain rod and attach to the frame. No, the position might not be optimal for some but it will allow you to soften the room.

    A couple of rugs would be valuable for softening and making the space welcoming. One at the fireplace end, and one between the TV and sofa. Another chair with the sofa will help define a living space. It might even work better if the sofa is pulled off the wall to create a walkway behind, to create a seating area.

    Hopefully this leaves you space enough for a dining space

  • PRO
    2 years ago

    You didn't show us all the walls in the room or bother to provide any measurements of the room, so this layout may not work exactly but here's an option for you

    .


  • 2 years ago

    Thanks all! Incredibly useful stuff here already. I’ll take measurements and sketch! We thank you and will post that shortly!

  • 2 years ago

    Outside of home if that matters or affects style choice at all

  • 2 years ago

    super cute house!