Furniture Arrangement Tips to Make a Room Look More Spacious

In small spaces, poor furniture placement can make a room feel cluttered and stressful. Below are some techniques to help visually expand your space—especially useful for those living in compact rooms.

 Living Room

The living room serves many functions, from hosting guests to daily household activities, and it’s easy to accumulate things here. However, a cluttered living room gives off a chaotic impression and hinders relaxation. Focus on keeping only essential furniture pieces and maintain open space to create a more calming atmosphere.

・Avoid Placing Large Furniture Near Doors and Windows

Leave open space around doors and windows to create a sense of openness. Avoid obstructing these areas to maintain clear sight lines and a good flow of movement. If you must place furniture in front of a window, opt for low-profile pieces that won’t block natural light.

・Place the Sofa Along a Wall or in a Corner

Placing a sofa in the center of a small room can overwhelm the space. Position it against a wall or in a corner to create a more open look. However, don’t push it flush against the wall—leaving a 10–20 cm gap can help reduce the feeling of being cramped.

Dining Area

When arranging furniture in a limited dining space, prioritize maintaining clear walkways.

・Place the Table Against a Wall

In compact dining areas, pushing one side of the table against the wall is a common and effective layout. Dining tables tend to be tall and can feel bulky if placed in the center of the room. Wall-side placement opens up the surrounding space and allows easier movement.

・Leave Enough Space Behind Chairs

Always consider chair clearance when arranging your dining area. Without enough room to pull chairs back, getting up becomes awkward and uncomfortable. Ideally, leave at least 90 cm between the wall or nearby furniture and the chairs to ensure both comfort and accessibility.

Bedroom

The position of your bed can significantly affect sleep quality. A restful sleeping environment is essential for mental and physical recovery.

・Leave Space Between the Bed and the Wall

Ideally, keep at least 50 cm between the bed and the wall to make it easy for people to move around. If you're placing the bed along the wall, leave a 10 cm gap to make bed-making easier. However, even if there's more than 50 cm of space, don’t overcrowd it with desks or dressers—preserving some open space is key to maintaining comfort.

・Place the Bed at the Back of the Room in a Studio Apartment

In a studio or one-room apartment, placing the bed toward the back of the room helps it feel larger. Use height strategically: place taller furniture near the entrance and shorter items toward the back. This creates a sense of depth using perspective and makes the room look more spacious.