The Complete Guide to Arranging Your Living Room Around a Fireplace

Having a fireplace can make a living room feel warm and inviting. But incorporating a fireplace into your living room layout can also create some design challenges. With careful planning and strategic furniture arrangements, you can maximize the appeal of your fireplace while creating a comfortable, functional living space.

Assessing Your Current Layout

Before making any changes, take time to analyze your existing layout. Consider the size and flow of the space, positioning of windows and doors, and how the furniture is currently arranged. Pay special attention to any problem areas or awkward spaces that could use improvement.

Take Measurements

Record the room's dimensions, including wall lengths. Note the size of furniture pieces and their placement in the room. This will give you a sense of the scale of the space.

Identify Focal Points

Pinpoint elements that draw the eye, like the fireplace itself, large windows, or doorways. Understanding these visual focal points will help guide furniture placement.

Consider Traffic Flow

Assess the room's entrances/exits and map out natural walking paths. This will allow you to arrange furniture in a way that enhances movement through the space.

General Tips for Arranging Around Fireplaces

Certain guidelines apply whether your fireplace is on a center wall, in a corner, or on a short wall.

• Push furniture away from walls to open up floor space.
• Use area rugs to define seating spaces intimately connected to the fireplace.
• Angle furniture toward the fireplace to create inviting spaces for conversation.
• Maximize views of the fireplace from seating areas.

Arranging Furniture for Different Fireplace Positions

Center Wall Fireplaces

Having the fireplace prominently centered can make it a challenge to arrange seating flows. A few ideas:

• Flank the fireplace with matching armchairs or loveseats.
• Separate the space evenly on both sides for balance.
• Use a long console table behind a sofa to fill space.

Corner Fireplaces

Take advantage of the intimacy created by a corner fireplace.

• Angle furniture to face the corner fireplace.
• Use side walls for open shelving or wall art.
• Place cabinets or slim tables along the walls near the fireplace.

Fireplaces on Short Walls

Make sure furnishings don't obstruct views or access.

• Leave walkways open on either side.
• Choose low-profile or transparent furniture.
• Don't place large items directly in front of the fireplace.

Working With Unusual Living Room Layouts

Make a awkward layout work for you with clever arrangements.

Long, Narrow Rooms

Visually widen a long narrow space.

• Use glass-topped furniture like coffee tables.
• Divide into conversation areas or zones.
• Keep colors light and minimize visual clutter.

L-Shaped Rooms

Make the most of an L-shaped floor plan.

• Anchor furniture to the longest wall.
• Float furniture away from walls to maximize openness.
• Add accent lighting to brighten hidden areas.

Sloping Ceilings or Uneven Walls

Work with unique architecture for character.

• Incorporate decor that complements the lines.
• Add shelves or cabinets to uneven walls.
• Use a large area rug to define the seating space.

Incorporating Other Living Room Elements

Integrate any additional items smoothly.

• Allow room for TV viewing from seating areas.
• Display artwork at eye level above fireplace.
• Add mirrors to reflect light and create spaciousness.
• Incorporate accent lighting around fireplace.

Keep feng shui principles in mind for harmony.

• See that seating faces the entrance to the room.
• Balance and ground the space with earthy elements.
• Incorporate natural materials and tranquil colors.

You can have a living room layout that shows off your fireplace. Pay attention to existing architecture, furniture dimensions, and traffic flows. Adhere to general fireplace arrangement guidelines while making the most of your specific space. The result will be a warm, welcoming living room you'll enjoy spending time in.