How to Arrange Furniture in Long, Narrow Rooms

Determine what the focal point of the room is. The focal point may be a large window, a fireplace, a large piece of furniture, or an entertainment center. Placing focus on the end walls, which are the shortest walls, will make the room appear longer and more narrow.

Place the focal point in the center of the longest wall with a wall facing it. For example, in a long, narrow bedroom, the bed is most likely the focal point, and should be placed in the center of the long wall. This will also divide the room into two zones.

Figure out what functions the room will serve, and divide the room into different stations according to function. For example, the room can have a quiet reading area, a conversation area, or a game area.

Place the sitting area in the center of the long, narrow room and around the focal point, if a sitting area applies. Place chairs against the wall to allow the room's foot traffic to flow smoothly. In long, narrow bedrooms, create a diagonal seating area in one corner. Place the largest seating item diagonally across the corner, so one end of the furniture piece touches one wall, and the other end touches the other wall that intersects at the corner.

Place a chair and table with a lamp along the other end of the long, narrow room to create a quiet reading area. Alternatively, low couches or lounge chairs may be placed there for a relaxing area.

Use multiple rugs to help define the different areas in the room. Avoid long narrow rugs; opt for square, round or hexagon rugs instead.