Designing a long and skinny room can be difficult, however with a little bit of thought and space planning you can put together a versatile space that does everything you need. You need to spend a bit of time evaluating how you want to use the space and then follow the design questions and tips below.

1. Decide on Room Functions

Before diving into design, determine the primary functions of your living room. Will it be a space for entertaining guests, relaxing with family, or a combination of both? Understanding the room's intended purposes will guide your layout, furniture choices and eventually your lighting.

Do you like reading, watching TV or just simply relaxing by the fire?

Do you need plenty of storage in this space for children’s toys or perhaps just a lot of floor space for playing?

These are all questions you need to ask yourself so you can decide on your rooms function.

2. Creating Defined Zones

A long living room benefits from distinct zones that delineate various activities. Establish seating areas, perhaps a reading nook by the window or a space for social gatherings. Use furniture placement, such as sofas or armchairs, to define these zones while maintaining a cohesive flow. The zones will demonstrate that different parts of the room are used for different functions.

3. Highlighting or Creating a Focal Point

An essential element in any room is a focal point that captures attention and adds character. In your living room maybe you already have a fireplace, an accent wall with artwork, or an elegant piece of furniture as the focal point, this also anchors the space and creates a visual centre.

4. Optimising All Available Space

Make the most of every inch in your elongated room by considering all areas, including corners. Utilise corners for functional purposes, such as installing a cosy reading corner with a comfortable armchair and a standing lamp. Avoid leaving corners bare to ensure a cohesive and purposeful layout.

5. Zoning and Guiding with Rugs

Rugs play a pivotal role in zoning and guiding the eye through a long living space. A great way to define various areas within the space is to use different rugs beneath the seating arrangement or under a coffee table can demarcate the social zone, while another near a window can create a quiet reading or relaxation area.

6. Directing Focus Upwards

In rooms with elongated dimensions, draw attention upwards to balance the space. Tall bookshelves, floor-to-ceiling curtains, or strategically placed artwork can guide the eye vertically, creating a sense of height and visual interest. Designing a long living room necessitates a thoughtful approach to utilise the space effectively. By defining zones, creating focal points, utilising corners, using rugs for zoning and visual direction, and directing focus upwards, you can transform your elongated space into a harmonious and functional area that exudes both style and purpose.

Space planning for your home can be tricky, there is a lot to think about and it is important to get it right. If you’re renovating a period home don’t forget to explore my services I offer remote and in person consultations which work best if your looking for some light advice or I offer bespoke full service interior design services which is perfect if your looking for a more hands on approach.

I focus on creating a solid client brief, so your voice is central throughout the design process, understanding how you live and how you want to live.

Jessica x