The clever and efficient use of space is one of the cornerstones of good interior design philosophy. Being creative and thinking outside of the box to create spaces that look great and function well within the needs of the family or people making use of the space is paramount.
Bigger families often find that fitting everything into the different areas of their house can be a challenge, and the living room seating arrangement is no exception. If you have a bigger family or love to entertain, you might find yourself running out of seating, or having to squeeze together on the sofa.
Let’s have a look at your options for how you can add extra comfortable seating into your living room so you can all be comfortable during that important family time.
A Bean Bag Chair
Bean bag chairs have remained popular throughout many decades, and there’s good reason for it. They’re very comfortable and look great and inviting in a cozy living room. They’re also available in a great many options, colors, and fill types, so there’s one that’ll fit right into your space and not only add seating, but also add design flair if chosen well.
Add an Occasional Chair
The occasional chair can offer a lot in your living room, particularly if it’s chosen to not only be functional but also to add design aesthetic to the space.
Take a risk with the design of the chair and opt for something that contrasts your existing sofa with some patterns or slightly louder colors too. They’re usually quite cost-effective and provide extra seating without any fuss. Plus, for family use, it’s likely going to be light and easy to move around, so it can be positioned wherever it’s needed.
Consider a Bench Style Sofa
Sofas are traditionally divided up by seating cushions into the number of people they’re supposed to accommodate. A three-seater sofa, for example, would have three seating cushions.
If you’re using the sofa for more than three people, you might consider choosing a bench cushion sofa instead, so that the seating cushion is one piece, and nobody is destined to sit on the division between cushions because that isn’t very comfortable! It’s an easy way to get four onto a three-seater.
Ottoman and not Coffee Table
Instead of a traditional wood coffee table, opt instead for a well-appointed and upholstered ottoman. It gives you the function of the coffee table, but if you need it, it can also be easily used as extra seating for guests or if the whole family is home and want to crowd into the living room. Look for a cocktail ottoman for the ultimate in both style and function. The bonus with this type of table is that it doubles as a footrest for when you just have to put your feet up.
With a bit of clever design and furniture choice, finding a way to create enough seating around the dinner table or in the living room doesn’t have to be all that difficult.
