Living room sofa retailer Dimitri Pappas from My Furniture reveals a simple hack many Brits are missing by not adjusting their sofa placement
This small change can improve the flow of your space, making your home feel more airy and comfortable, especially as the weather gets warmer.
Where should your sofa go?
Leverage natural light
“Positioning the sofa next to or underneath windows not only takes advantage of the view but also enhances the natural light in the room, making it feel airier and less confined without blocking it.
“Position surrounding furniture away from directly opposite windows, as this can cast shadows or block the flow of natural light.”
Face the door
“Another option is to position your sofa to face the door, but ideally not directly. Placing something between the door and sofa, like a coffee table, armchair, or even a rug, creates a natural barrier and maintains good energy flow. This allows the room to feel balanced and practical without blocking movement.”
Other things to consider
Consider your room’s focal point
“The placement of your sofa can really impact the room’s functionality and atmosphere. While it’s common to position a sofa along the longest wall, this isn’t always the best choice.
“By focusing on the room’s focal point, such as the fireplace, you can create a more cohesive and inviting space.”
Consider traffic flow
“You should always consider the traffic flow around your sofa. Avoid obstructing pathways to create easy navigation and maintain a functional, spacious environment.”
Where you should never put your sofa
Don’t put it against a wall
“Placing a sofa flush against a wall may seem like a way to create more space, but it often has the opposite effect and can make the room feel boxed in and uninspiring.
“Pulling the sofa a few inches away from the wall, even by just 10 to 12 inches, adds depth and creates the illusion of a larger, more open space.”
16-inch furniture rule
“Keeping at least 16 inches of space between the sofa and other furniture, such as coffee tables or chairs, creates a clear traffic flow, helping the room feel spacious and inviting.
“Crowding furniture near doorways or walkways can also disrupt air circulation and make the room feel cramped. A well-thought-out layout will enhance both functionality and comfort.”
Other tips to increase your space and beat the heat
- Use transparent blinds or soft white or cream curtains to manage heat while allowing natural light and maintaining a bright, airy feel.
- Go for cotton or linen sofas for more breathable comfort during warmer months.
- Free up space by relocating smaller furniture pieces and repositioning larger ones to reduce heat exposure near windows.
- Maximise corners with L-shaped sofas or create balance with curved layouts for an optimised room flow.
