While most living room arrangements comprise of a sofa and a chair or two, a more socially-focused footprint is gaining popularity – enter the conversation area. A conversation area consists of seating that is arranged in a way that encourages conversation among its inhabitants. These arrangements are ideal in a den, library, hearth, or living room. Read on to discover four conversation area configurations that are, by turns, conducive to TV watching, conversing with friends, and quiet pursuits like reading or knitting.
How to Arrange a Living Room Conversation Area
Conversation areas typically are made up of four arm chairs for a cozy, comfortable vibe, but any seating option will do. To create a cohesive seating area that looks intentional, we suggest utilizing four matching chairs. If you want something a bit more unexpected, mix two solid chairs with two patterned chairs. The most important element of a conversation area is comfort so make sure the chairs you choose are comfortable to encourage lingering over drinks and appetizers.
Conversation areas using accent chairs are especially ideal for small spaces. The chairs can be arranged in ways that complement both smaller, square spaces that can otherwise seem overcrowded as well as longer, rectangular rooms. Read on for four different arrangements.
Circled Up Around an Ottoman
Start with a statement-making ottoman. We chose a round, tufted ottoman in a bright color but you can choose any shape, style, and color you like. We suggest using an ottoman that’s at least 24 inches wide or larger to better fill the space between the chairs. Once you have the ottoman in place, simply position the chairs. If you are using a square ottoman, you can place the chairs either at the corners of the ottoman or parallel to the sides of the ottoman. Simply add a decorative tray to the top of the ottoman to create a sturdy surface to set down beverages or a vase of flowers.
Angled Around a Coffee Table
Similar to above, you can also choose to place chairs around a coffee table to create a cozy yet functional seating area. The solid table surface makes for a great place to share a drink or snacks.
Facing One Another
Arranging seating to face one another with a large table in the middle is a natural conversation-encouraging layout. This look can easily be achieved with accent chairs, sofas, or a mix of the two. The large coffee table in the middle offers a convenient place to set down a drink or play a game.
Oriented Around a Focal Point
This arrangement works perfectly when you are trying to highlight a focal point – whether that’s a fireplace, a television, a large picture window or set of french doors. Simply orient the seating pieces toward a focal point of your choosing with a coffee table or ottoman in the middle.
Watch the video to see how we showcase four unique living room looks that require just a few minutes of repositioning.
You Might Also Be Interested In
- Check out these coffee table alternatives for your living room
- Short on storage? Discover lots of living room storage ideas to help you get organized
- Explore more living room decorating ideas
