The 4 Best Living Room Sets for Small Spaces

In the world of urban living, small living spaces have become a reality for many. But that doesn't mean you have to compromise on style and comfort.

With the right furniture, you can transform your cosy abode into a functional and inviting haven that still makes a big impact. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best living room sets for small spaces, ensuring that you make the most of every square foot in your home.

Furniture tips for small living rooms

Small living rooms can be tricky to decorate as you can easily overwhelm the space. Here are some tips to make the most out of your small living room:

• Prioritise multi-functional pieces: Look for furniture that serves more than one purpose. For example, a coffee table with storage, an extendable dining table, or a sofa bed can save space by serving dual functions.
  
  

• Choose pieces that float off the ground: Sofas or console tables that raise off the floor can trick the eye into thinking there’s more vertical space. It also creates a more open living room. 
  
  

• Opt for modular furniture: Modular sofa sets allow you to customise your seating arrangement to fit your room perfectly, even if the space is small.
  
  

• Wall-mounted furniture: Whenever possible, choose wall-mounted furniture like floating shelves or wall-mounted desks. This frees up floor space and can create a more spacious atmosphere.
  
  

• Go for light colours: Light-coloured furniture and decor can make a room feel more open and airy by creating an illusion of a larger space. 

4 best small living room sets

1. Versatile and modular sofas

Modular sofas are the undisputed champions when it comes to optimising space in a small living room. 

Modular sofa sets consist of individual pieces that can be arranged and rearranged to create any seating configuration. This customisation allows you to easily adapt the sofa to the layout and size of your space. 

For example, the Auburn Collection has several sofa units to choose from, such as a corner sofa and an armless 2-seater.

The versatile design makes this a perfect option for compact spaces, whether it’s an L-shape, U-shape, or arranged as individual seating units. Pair the modular sofa with a coffee table with hidden storage, like the Andre Coffee Table, for an uncluttered look. 

2. Sleek loveseats and apartment-sized sofas

Consider a 2-seater sofa or an apartment-sized sofa if your small living room can't accommodate a full-sized sofa. They offer a comfortable seating solution without overwhelming the space with their size. 

Opt for 2-seater sofas with sleek designs and slender armrests and legs to create an illusion of spaciousness. If you frequently entertain larger groups in your smaller living space, consider 2-seaer sets like the Maui Outdoor 2-Seater Sofa & 2 Lounge Chairs Set. It provides plenty of seating without taking up too much room, and its design is versatile enough for indoor and outdoor use!

Furthermore, you can pair these compact sofas with modern end tables to provide additional surface and storage space. 

3. Nesting coffee tables and ottomans

Without the luxury of space, you might be thinking of skipping the coffee table altogether. However, coffee tables are essential to help anchor the main seating area and provide more functionality in the living room. 

So, instead of a bulky center table, go for nesting coffee tables like the Vincent Coffee Table Set. Featuring two solid wood coffee tables, this set offers a space-saving design: the smaller table can be neatly tucked beneath the larger one when not in use.

Alternatively, you can use ottomans to double up as a coffee table and seating space. When not used as a table, these poufs provide comfortable and versatile seating options, making them ideal for gatherings. Opt for an ottoman that matches your sofa so that it blends in seamlessly, making it look like a spacious sectional sofa.

4. Flexible extendable dining tables

It's common for small living spaces to have an open floor plan – which also means that the dining area often shares the same space as the living room.

To ensure that you don’t overcrowd the space, opt for extendable dining tables. They can be expanded when needed and folded down when not in use. Pair them with benches for more seating space or folding chairs that can be easily tucked away when not in use. 

This setup allows you to have an inviting dining area without sacrificing the precious living room space.

Maximise your space and style

Small living spaces can be just as stylish and functional as larger ones with the right furniture choices. From modular sofa sets to compact coffee tables, there are numerous options available to maximise your small living room's potential. 

By carefully selecting living room furniture for small spaces, you can create a comfortable and inviting environment that you'll love to call home.

Frequently asked questions about living room sets for small spaces

Should all seating in a small living room be the same height?

In a small living room, maintaining visual openness is key. While some height variation is nice, prioritise pieces that don't overwhelm the space. Opt for lower-profile sofa sets to avoid blocking sight lines and making the room feel cramped. If you choose taller pieces, keep them slender and consider transparent materials like acrylic or glass to maintain a sense of airiness. A consistent, lower height range will generally make a small space feel larger.

Where should the sofa be in the living room?

Strategic sofa placement is crucial for maximizing space and functionality in a small living room. Consider these tips:

• Against a wall: This is often the most practical option in a compact area, creating a clear walkway and freeing up valuable floor space.
  
  

• Avoid blocking windows: Natural light is essential in a small room. Don't place the sofa where it will obstruct sunlight.
  
  

• Consider a corner: If the layout allows, placing the sofa set in a corner can create a cosy seating area and utilise otherwise underutilised space.
  
  

• Scale down: Opt for a 2-seater or a smaller-scale sofa to avoid overwhelming the room.

Floating, the idea of positioning the couch away from the walls, is possible but must be done carefully. If you want to float the couch, ensure there's enough space behind it for a narrow console table or a walkway.

The goal is to create a comfortable and functional seating area without making the room feel crowded.

How many pillows should go on a sectional?

For a small living room, less is usually more when it comes to pillows. Keep it to two to three smaller pillows to avoid overwhelming the seating. Opting for lighter colours with interesting textures can also add style and comfort without cluttering the space or sacrificing seating.