decorate living room corner

That empty corner in your living room doesn’t have to remain a wasted space – it’s actually prime real estate for creating a functional and eye-catching feature in your home. Interior designer Sarah Mitchell notes, “Corners offer unique opportunities to add both style and purpose to any room.” From setting up a cozy reading nook to installing floating shelves, you’ll discover nine proven ways to transform that bare corner into your room’s standout feature.

1. Add Corner Floor Lamp

stylish corner floor lamp

When faced with an empty corner in your living room, a stylish floor lamp can instantly transform the space while providing essential task lighting. Consider factors like height, style, and illumination when selecting the perfect corner lamp for your needs.

  • Choose a lamp between 60-72 inches tall to create visual interest without overwhelming the space
  • Look for an arched or angular design that fits snugly into corners without wasting space
  • Select adjustable brightness settings to accommodate both reading and ambient lighting needs
  • Match the lamp’s finish to your existing hardware (brass, chrome, or matte black)
  • Confirm the base is stable and weighted, ideally 12-15 inches in diameter for proper support

2. Install Corner Floating Shelves

maximize corner shelf space

Floating shelves offer an elegant solution for maximizing empty corners while creating functional storage and display space. You’ll need to carefully measure your corner space and select shelves that complement your room’s style.

  • Choose L-shaped corner shelves for a seamless fit, typically 12-24 inches per side
  • Install wall anchors rated for at least 30 pounds to guarantee stability
  • Space shelves 12-15 inches apart vertically for ideal visual balance
  • Arrange items in descending size order, with larger pieces at bottom
  • Mix decorative and functional items: books, plants, photos, and small storage boxes

“Corner floating shelves can triple your storage space while adding architectural interest,” says interior designer Sarah Chen.

3. Place Potted Corner Plant

vibrant corner plant placement

A tall, leafy plant can transform an empty corner into a vibrant focal point while adding natural elements to your living space. According to interior designer Sarah Chen, “The right corner plant can soften angular walls while improving air quality.” You’ll want to choose a plant that thrives in your room’s lighting conditions.

  • Select plants reaching 4-6 feet tall like fiddle leaf figs, bird of paradise, or rubber plants
  • Place the pot at least 6 inches from walls to allow proper airflow
  • Use an elevated planter stand to create visual interest
  • Install grow lights if your corner receives less than 4 hours of sunlight
  • Water thoroughly once soil feels dry 2 inches deep

4. Corner Reading Nook

cozy corner reading setup