How to Choose Traditional Living Room Furniture
Stick with structured, classic pieces to create a timeless yet livable layout
It makes sense that classic furniture tends to work best in traditional living rooms. Simple palettes, sturdy materials and comfortable upholstery in timeless silhouettes will help you express your traditional style for now and years to come. But while there are a few rules for choosing decor, what really matters is what works for you and your home.
Here are several pointers for creating a simply lovely traditional living room.
Here are several pointers for creating a simply lovely traditional living room.
Few know the power of traditional design better than Bunny Williams. She's said that the elements of her perfect space include a sofa, a coffee table, two upholstered chairs, a pair of open armchairs that can be moved around, a bench, two long drink tables and two end tables.

When decorating around a view, take care not to use furniture that creates a visual block. A bench or low daybed is a wonderful choice for seating that maintains a peek outdoors.
A console table behind the sofa is a staple for open-plan living. Console tables should be slightly lower than the back of the sofa to maintain a clean line of sight. These tables are great for adding lighting too. A pair of lamps behind the sofa can really illuminate a space.
Mirrors are a simple way to make a living room appear bigger, lighter and brighter and add a hint of glitz. Mirrors are excellent for acknowledging the symmetry of a space as well.
A pair of sofas is ideal for a cozy, comfortable living room. Make sure your coffee table is 14 to 18 inches away from each sofa. This allows enough room for a passageway, but not so much that your feet won't reach.
For larger living rooms where one huge floor plan seems too open, try creating two separate seating areas. Distinguish the spaces by incorporating different but complementary patterns or using two different rugs. A bench or ottoman can help merge the spaces because it allows for guests to sit on either side and adds continuity.
Club chairs are a living room staple, and while they're often paired with sofas, that isn't a requirement. Pairs of chairs work well in spaces used mainly for communication. Most club chairs are between 28 and 36 inches wide and 28 to 40 inches deep. To maintain a functional space, make sure to keep an open walkway for traveling between rooms comfortably.
End tables are must-haves for drinks, snacks, remotes and books. When it comes to picking the perfect end table, go with a surface from which rings and scratches can be polished or wiped away easily. End tables should be slightly lower than, slightly higher than or the same height as the arm of the chair or sofa beside which they sit.
More guides to traditional living rooms:
Wall Art | Flooring | Lighting
More guides to traditional living rooms:
Wall Art | Flooring | Lighting