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Decorating Ideas: Arranging Furniture

Updated July 9, 2012, 3:35 pm betterhomesgardens

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Clever furniture arrangements can transform a conventional room into something new and different. Here's how.

Shape that space and solve the room-arranging puzzle in five steps!

Step 1: Find the focal point

The cornerstone of every arrangement. It might be a view, fireplace, or a wall of built-ins are obvious possibilities. In rooms without a focus consider grouping furniture around a dramatic painting, freestanding shelves, a tall cupboard or armoire or a wall of collectables.

The room in the picture above, painted in Wattyl's new season colours, is focused on some spectacular windows.

Step 2: Determine the traffic flow

People cutting in front of the sofa while you are trying to chat is a no no. Make sure electrical cords are not across walkways and that rugs are anchored by non-slip backing. Move furniture away from the walls to get away from that 'waiting room' look.

Step 3: Consider the composition

Include a mix of large- and small-scale furniture. Remove non-essential furnishings to create space or add furniture to divide a room into activity areas. Breaking a room into two or more groupings can help it function better. The furniture in the picture above is from Freedom.

Step 4: Break the rules

Consider a dining table that is not centred! Avoid labelling a room and use the space creatively - why not dine in the living room if it feels right?

Step 5: Add your personality

Surround yourself with collections and pieces you love - that way the room will feel satisfying.

Tips

Measure your room and arrange paper templates on a simple grid - saves moving the real thing around!
To emphasise the width of a room angle a large piece like a sofa across one corner.
Raise a low ceiling with floor-to-ceiling window treatments. 'Lower' a ceiling with a colourful area rug and low-level lighting.
Choose furnishings with multiple functions such as the wall unit that houses the computer or TV, and the drop-leaf table for occasional dining.
Make some pieces mobile - the ottoman, small tables and benches, lightly scaled chairs.