Layout
Position the seating so it faces the shared focal point of the TV.
Keep furniture to the edges of the room so there's space for lounging on the floor in front of the TV and room for extra seating, such as beanbags, to be brought in if the kids' friends come over.
Find a TV unit that also incorporates storage, so it doesn't take up too much more of the floor space.
Lighting
Add floorstanding or table lamps that can be angled over the sofa so there's a good amount of reading light.
Use a table lamp to create soft background light in the evenings.
Furniture
Go for a large three-piece suite, with super-comfortable sofas and armchairs. Loose covers are practical and have a relaxed look.
Mix colours to create a laid-back feel and use painted wood, rattan and chrome for a room that looks full of well-loved pieces.
A rattan trunk used as a coffee table does double duty as storage, too.
For more
Give your living room a sociable layout
Create a modern living and dining room
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