35 Long Narrow Living Room

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Decorating a long, narrow living room can be quite the challenge, can’t it? The struggle to create a balanced, inviting space without it feeling like a hallway is a common dilemma for many.

It’s important to master this décor challenge because the living room often serves as the heart of the home, a place for relaxation and social gatherings.

How do you maximize space without compromising style, and avoid that dreaded “bowling alley” vibe?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this article, I’ve compiled 35 exciting and innovative ideas to transform your long, narrow living room into a chic, functional oasis.

Let’s dive in!

How to Decorate a Long and Narrow Living Room Perfectly?

Decorating a long and narrow living room can seem daunting, but with a few clever design tricks, you can transform it into a stylish and functional space.

It’s essential to zone your space effectively. By using area rugs or different types of furniture, you can create distinct areas, such as a cozy lounging space and a separate reading nook.

This not only makes the room more functional but also visually breaks up the length, making it appear more balanced.

Another key element is to use furniture that fits the proportions of the room.

Choose pieces that are slim and tall rather than bulky; for example, a sleek sectional sofa can be a brilliant anchor without overwhelming the space.

35 Long Narrow Living Room Designs to Copy

1. Divide the Room

To divide your room effectively, start by placing a sofa or a bookshelf to create a distinct boundary.

For the relaxing zone, add comfortable seating, like an armchair with soft throws or a fluffy rug, to make it cozy.

In the working zone, set up a desk with good lighting and a comfortable chair.

This setup not only separates your spaces but also uses furniture to make your room feel more organized and defined, rather than just one long stretch.

2. Use Vertical Space

When it comes to using vertical space, think tall! Start by installing tall bookshelves. They not only store your books but also draw the eye upwards, making the room feel larger and less cramped.

Hang artwork high on your walls. This trick also helps extend the visual height of the room.

You can even get creative with vertical storage solutions, like wall-mounted shelves or hooks.

These are perfect for small spaces where floor space is at a premium. By doing this, even the narrowest space can feel airy and spacious.

3. Strategic Furniture Placement

Start by pulling your sofa and chairs a few inches away from the walls. This makes the room feel more welcoming.

Group your seating around a central point, like a coffee table or rug. It creates a focal area where people can gather and chat.

Don’t worry if it feels different at first; it helps in making the room feel more intimate and engaging.

This simple change can transform a space from cold and uninviting to warm and comfortable.

4. Use of Mirrors

A simple trick I use to make my room look bigger and brighter. Hanging mirrors in the right spots can do wonders.

Here’s how you can do it: find a wall that faces a window and hang a large mirror there. This way, the natural light bounces around the room.

You can also place mirrors behind lamps or other light sources to amplify the light. Smaller mirrors grouped on a wall can also create a nice effect.

The idea is to reflect light and space, giving the illusion of a larger area. It’s an easy, cost-effective way to improve your room’s look.

5. Streamlined Furniture

When dealing with a narrow room, I always go for sleek, streamlined furniture.

Here’s why: big, bulky furniture pieces can make the space feel cramped and closed off. Instead, I pick furniture with clean lines and a minimalist design.

For example, a slim sofa without heavy armrests or a narrow coffee table with tall legs can make the room appear more open.

Wall-mounted shelves are great too—they offer storage without taking up floor space. Light-colored furniture also helps in making the room feel airier.

By selecting these pieces carefully, you can maintain a light, airy feel in your narrow room without sacrificing functionality or style.

6. Lighting Options

I don’t just stick to one kind of light; instead, I use a mix of floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces.

This combination helps add depth and makes the room feel cozy and inviting. Start by placing floor lamps in corners to fill the space with light.

Then, add table lamps on side tables or desks for focused lighting where you need it. Finally, use wall sconces to highlight specific areas or artwork.

The key is to layer your lighting so that it works together to create the right mood.

7. Rug Placement

To achieve this look, start by choosing rugs that match your style and the room’s color scheme.

Place a large rug under the living area to anchor the seating. This gives the space a cozy feel. For the dining area, use another rug to define it, making it a separate zone.

Pick a rug that’s big enough to hold the table and chairs. In a reading nook or home office, add a smaller rug to create a distinct spot.

This trick not only makes each area feel unique but also keeps the room looking put together.

8. Consistent Color Scheme

To create a consistent color scheme, choose a main color you love. This will be the base of your design.

Select two or three complementary colors that blend well with your main color. Use these complementary colors for smaller decor items like pillows or vases.

Keep bigger pieces like walls or sofas in your main color to maintain harmony. Stick to this palette throughout the room to avoid a chaotic look.

Don’t overdo it with too many colors. A unified color scheme helps the room feel more organized and peaceful.

9. Use Multi-functional Furniture

Using multi-functional furniture is a smart way to make the most of your space. For example, an ottoman with storage can act as a footrest, a coffee table, and hidden storage all in one.

A sofa bed is another great piece; it works as a comfy couch during the day and a bed for guests at night.

When picking out these items, think about your room’s needs and see how one piece can serve multiple purposes.

Look for furniture that fits your style, and don’t be afraid to mix and match. This way, you get a functional, organized, and stylish room without feeling cramped.

10. Floating Shelves

First, decide where you want the shelves. Mark the spots on the wall using a level to ensure they will be straight.

Use a stud finder to locate wall studs because anchoring the shelves into studs will make them sturdier.

After marking the studs, drill pilot holes for the brackets. Attach the brackets securely using screws and a drill.

Once the brackets are in place, simply slide the shelves onto them. Make sure they are level and secure.

Now, you can start arranging your decor. Floating shelves keep your space organized and stylish without taking up floor space.

11. Slender Furniture Pieces

When it comes to picking furniture for a room, think slender. I always start by measuring the space.

This helps me know what size of sofa or armchair will fit without crowding the room. I look for furniture with sleek lines and legs, which gives the illusion of more space.

Avoid bulky pieces; they can make the room feel cramped. Instead, go for slimmer options that match the room’s scale.

Also, lighter colors can make furniture seem less heavy. By doing this, you’ll have a balanced space that’s both functional and stylish.

12. Accent Wall

Pick the wall you want to highlight—this is usually the one you see first when you enter the room.

Choose a color that stands out but complements the rest of your room. You can use paint, wallpaper, or even wood panels.

Make sure to prep the wall by cleaning and priming it. If you’re painting, use a roller for large areas and a brush for the edges.

Allow it to dry, then add any finishing touches like artwork or shelves.

13. Long Curtains

So, if you want to make your room look taller and more impressive, here’s a simple trick: hang long curtains from the ceiling to the floor.

Measure the height from the ceiling to the floor to ensure you get the right length. Choose curtains that go all the way down and have a nice, fuller look.

Then, install your curtain rod close to the ceiling, not just above the window. When you hang the curtains, let them just touch the floor or hover slightly above for a polished finish.

This technique pulls the eye upward, instantly making your room feel more spacious and grand.

14. Symmetry

Start with a central point in your room, like a fireplace or a coffee table. Place your main pieces of furniture, such as sofas or chairs, equally on each side of this point.

This creates a sense of balance. Use matching side tables or lamps to further enhance the symmetry.

Make sure the decorations, like pillows or art, are equally distributed on both sides.

This setup looks orderly and makes your space feel balanced and serene. Remember, the key is to keep everything even and mirrored, creating a harmonious environment.

15. Diagonal Furniture Arrangement

If you’re looking to shake up your room, try placing a few pieces of furniture diagonally. Start with a key item, like your sofa or a main chair.

Position it at an angle, rather than straight against the wall. You’ll see how it instantly changes the flow and energy of the space.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – maybe angle a coffee table or even your bed. Just leave enough room for people to move around comfortably.

By breaking away from the usual straight lines, you’re creating a more dynamic and interesting layout.

16. Clear Coffee Tables

I prefer using glass or acrylic coffee tables because they seem to disappear, making the room appear more open and less crowded.

Choose a clear coffee table that fits the size of your room. Measure the space to ensure it isn’t too big or too small.

Place it in the center of your seating area to create a focal point without overwhelming the space.

Keep it clean to maintain that ‘invisible‘ look. You can also add a small decorative item like a vase or a few books, but avoid clutter.

17. Narrow Console Tables

To make this idea work in your home, measure the space behind your sofa. You’ll need a table that’s just a little shorter than the back of the sofa and narrow enough to fit easily.

Choose a table with shelves or drawers to maximize storage. Once you have the table, place it snugly behind the sofa.

Use this spot to display decorative items like picture frames and vases, or keep everyday items within easy reach.

18. Seating by the Fireplace

Choose comfy chairs or a sofa to place around the fireplace. Make sure the seating is close enough to feel the warmth but not too close to block the fire.

Use a soft, plush rug to define the area and add warmth. Place a small coffee table or ottoman in the middle, perfect for resting a cup of tea or a good book.

Add throw pillows and blankets to the chairs for extra coziness. Consider using low, warm lighting to create a relaxing ambiance.

This setup will turn any fireplace into a favorite spot for family and friends to gather and enjoy.

19. Pathways

A neat trick to make your living space more livable, keeping clear pathways.

Imagine moving through your room without bumping into furniture or squeezing past people, sounds nice, right?

Start by arranging your furniture so there’s a clear, unobstructed path from one part of the room to another.

Think about the routes you take most often, like between the sofa and the kitchen or the door and the seating area.

Make sure these are wide enough for easy movement. Keep it simple and avoid clutter in these pathways.

This little change can make a big difference in how comfortable and functional your home feels.

20. Outdoor Connection

To connect your indoor space with the outdoors, start by arranging your seating to face windows or glass doors.

This simple trick helps to visually extend your room and lets nature’s beauty pour in.

If you have the option, use furniture with a lower profile to keep the views unobstructed.

You might also consider adding reflective surfaces like mirrors to bounce the natural light around the room.

Choose light, airy curtains that won’t block your view. By following these steps, you can effortlessly make your indoor space feel larger and infused with the calming effect of the outdoors.

21. Cozy Cottage Charm

Transform your space with a cozy cottage vibe, starting with a soft, comfortable sofa and a rustic wooden coffee table as your main pieces. Opt for vintage-inspired chairs to add character.

Keep the walls and ceiling light-colored to maximize brightness, enhanced by large windows that not only let in daylight but also connect the indoors with the outdoors.

A small, round dining table in the corner serves as an inviting breakfast nook. For practical and aesthetic touches, use woven baskets for storage.

Finish the look with decorative items like antlers or classic sculptures, creating a charming, inviting atmosphere in your home.

22. Elegant Fireplace Focus

To achieve an elegant fireplace focus, start with a statement fireplace that serves as the centerpiece of the room, adding both elegance and warmth.

Place a velvet sofa facing the fireplace to invite cozy gatherings. A marble coffee table complements the plush texture of the sofa and reinforces the sophisticated vibe.

Above the sofa, hang a mixture of artwork and framed photos to draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of height and spaciousness in the room.

Introduce fresh flowers and vibrant greenery to inject life and color, ensuring a balanced and welcoming atmosphere.

23. Vibrant Boho Vibes

Imagine stepping into a living room where a bright velvet sofa instantly grabs your attention. This rich, orange sofa not only adds a pop of color but becomes the focal point of the space.

Below it, a boho-style patterned area rug anchors the room, providing a warm, inviting foundation.

Whimsical wall-mounted art and a vintage ladder for displaying textiles introduce visual intrigue without overloading the room.

To complete the look, woven baskets and lush plants are carefully placed, offering a variety of textures.

24. Floral Elegance

Floral Elegance is all about creating a cozy yet stylish living space. Start with a long, pastel sectional sofa that maximizes seating in a narrow room.

Floral curtains bring a touch of elegance, harmonizing with patterned throw pillows for a cohesive look.

A patterned carpet anchors the space, adding texture and visual interest. Large windows flood the room with natural light, making it feel open and welcoming.

To complete the setup, add a small side table for convenience – perfect for holding a cup of tea or a book.

25. Bright and Airy Bay Window

Imagine a living room where neutral-toned sofas hug the corners of a space bathed in sunlight from large bay windows.

The natural light from these windows not only brightens the room but also enhances its open and welcoming feel.

Shutters add a classic touch while providing privacy. Coordinating pillows on the sofas create a unified look, and a woven area rug introduces a layer of texture.

At the center, a wooden coffee table, adorned with decorative items and a leafy potted plant, adds warmth and a touch of nature.

26. Warm and Cozy Retreat

Imagine a space where comfort meets charm – a warm and cozy retreat designed with thoughtful touches.

Start with a comfortable sofa in warm, earthy tones, complemented by a rustic wooden coffee table.

Add plenty of plants to infuse the room with life and freshness. Soft string lights and candles provide an inviting glow, perfect for unwinding in the evening.

Shelves filled with books and decorative items add a personal touch, making the area feel truly yours.

27. Modern Minimalist Loft

The modern minimalist loft is all about simplicity and function. Start with a sleek sofa and a compact coffee table to keep things airy.

A skylight is a must to flood the room with natural light. High ceilings boost the spacious feel, while a blend of wood and metal elements adds warmth and a chic touch.

Choose streamlined furniture like a modern sofa and chair to maintain an open, useful space.

Adding a few plants will bring in a touch of nature, making this setup ideal for a long, narrow living room. It’s stylish, practical, and effortlessly elegant.

28. Cozy Contemporary Elegance

Creating a cozy yet contemporary living room starts with a long, sleek sofa paired with minimalist furniture.

This sets a clean, uncluttered look. A low, round coffee table becomes a key point without making the room feel cramped.

Add a wall-mounted TV and streamlined storage to keep the floor clear, giving the room a spacious vibe.

This design approach blends function and style, turning a narrow living room into an airy, inviting space where every piece serves a purpose without overwhelming the eye.

29. Classic Cozy Cottage Charm

Crafting a classic cozy cottage charm starts with a mix of patterned fabrics and vintage furniture.

Focus on blue and white patterns for your upholstery and drapery to give a unified, welcoming look.

Key pieces like a wooden table, floral arrangements, and traditional lamps add to the cottage feel.

This setup is perfect for a narrow living room. It uses the room’s full length, giving it both style and function.

30. Bright and Balanced Seating

Creating a bright and balanced seating area is about intelligent planning and stylish accents.

Position a pair of matching armchairs opposite a sofa to form a cohesive and welcoming arrangement.

This setup is perfect for conversations and family gatherings. Ensure your space is bathed in natural light by installing a large window with simple shades.

Add a neutral-toned ottoman serving as a coffee table for a mix of practicality and elegance. Complete the look with a trio of round mirrors on the wall.

31. Elegant Dual Sofa Arrangement

Imagine stepping into a living room where two elegant, matching sofas face each other, creating a balanced and welcoming space.

A glass coffee table with a gold frame sits in between, adding a touch of luxury without stealing the spotlight.

In the background, a grand piano stands, enhancing the room’s sophistication and serving as a striking focal point.

This setup makes the most of the room’s length, offering cozy areas for conversation while showcasing the piano.

32. Curved Green Sofa Focus

Looking to transform your narrow living room? Start with a bold, curved green sofa as a statement piece.

This adds character and softens the room’s straight lines. Complement it with a pair of round, marble-topped coffee tables to keep the flow intact.

To make the walls interesting without overloading them, hang modern abstract art. Then, place a tall, lush plant in the corner to introduce a bit of nature, helping create a balanced, inviting space.

33. Modern Minimalist Chic

The Modern Minimalist Chic design transforms a narrow living room into a sleek, contemporary oasis.

Start with a plush, velvet sofa against the wall to save space. Add nested marble-topped coffee tables for a touch of elegance that won’t clutter the room.

A striking chandelier and minimalistic wall art enhance the modern vibe. Large windows with simple blinds bring in natural light, making the area feel spacious and bright.

34. Inviting Earthy Tones

To create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a long, narrow living room, start with a cozy, neutral-toned sofa.

Pair it with a leather tufted ottoman to anchor the seating area. Enhance comfort and style by adding textured pillows and throws.

A soft, vintage rug will tie the space together, while a large plant in the corner introduces a touch of nature. Complete the look with framed art on the wall and a simple side table for practicality.

35. Rustic Elegance with Vaulted Ceilings

Imagine transforming your living space with rustic elegance highlighted by lofty, vaulted ceilings adorned with exposed beams. Start with plush, neutral-toned sofas as your foundation.

Add a statement chandelier to create a touch of sophistication against the rustic backdrop. To introduce color and texture, throw in a mix of patterned cushions.

Vintage furniture pieces, along with a thoughtfully curated gallery wall, enhance the room’s charm.

This design makes clever use of vertical space and allows natural light to flood in, making even a narrow room feel both cozy and expansive.

FAQs

How to arrange a living room that is long and narrow?

The key to arranging a long and narrow living room is all about creating distinct zones without making the space feel cluttered.

I’d start by placing your seating area in one part of the room, ideally anchored by a large rug to define the space.

Use slim, low-profile furniture to maintain an open feel. Consider adding a console table or bookshelves along the walls to provide storage and display options without taking up too much floor space.

Use lighting strategically, such as floor lamps and wall sconces, to brighten up dark corners and make the room appear larger.

Where should a TV be placed in a long, narrow room?

You should place the TV on one of the shorter walls at either end of the room.

This setup maximizes viewing distance and reduces any awkward neck twisting, making it a comfortable experience for everyone.

Ideally, you want the seating to be aligned with the TV to create a natural, theater-like arrangement.

Consider wall-mounting the TV to save space and maintain a clean look, especially if the room is on the narrow side.

What color to paint a long, narrow room?

When it comes to painting a long, narrow room, I’d recommend using lighter colors.

Light shades like soft whites, pastels, or even a light grey can make the room feel more open and airy.

If you want to add a bit of contrast, you could paint one of the shorter walls a darker color to break up the length visually.

Avoiding dark colors on the long walls can prevent the space from feeling closed in.

Sophia

Sophia, founder of ‘The Crafty Hacks,’ transforms homes with charm and creativity.

From cozy bedrooms to lively living rooms, her website guides readers in crafting spaces that aren’t just aesthetically pleasing but are true sanctuaries for the soul.

Join her in turning everyday homes into dream spaces.