Decorating Examples for Long and Narrow Living Rooms

Sections

• Break up the length of the room by dividing it into separate sections. Each cozy section will provide more options for the room and break it up so the eye doesn't focus on the length and width of the space. The room will appear larger this way. Use bookshelves, folding screens or furniture to create separate spaces, such as a desk or office nook, a living area or a dining spot.

Furniture

• Arrange furniture in a way that doesn't emphasize the narrowness of the room. Instead of placing furniture flush against the wall, pull all furniture away from the wall. Group furniture together with the largest piece vertically aligned with the wall and smaller pieces such as chairs and loveseats in the center of the space. Place a table in the center of the arrangement to create a cozy living space. Place dining chairs in the center of their own space with plenty of room around them. It's tempting to line the walls with furniture, but this will only make the room look smaller and more narrow.

Embellishments

• When decorating a narrow room, put away the dark colors. Dark shades make a narrow room seem even more narrow. Paint the walls bright colors or light shades to open up the room. Use decorative, bright accessories such as artwork to draw attention away from the shape of the room. Long and tall accessories bring the eye up, so think tall when you are purchasing vases and lamps. This creates the illusion of a less enclosed space. Use a different rug in each section of the room to create a different feel for each nook and reinforce the separate sections.

Focal Points

• When you are decorating and placing furniture, consider the focal points that are built into the room. A beautiful bay window can be a stunning backdrop for the couch and chairs, and a pretty fireplace makes a great spot for a library section. Calling attention to the focal points of the room makes it easier for the eyes to be drawn away from the width of the space. Hanging curtains on a window that's a focal point will draw the eye upward.