How To Fill Empty Space In Living Room

When Sarah moved into her spacious Victorian home, the 400-square-foot living room felt overwhelmingly empty despite her existing furniture. You’ll find that large living spaces often present this common design challenge, but interior designer Mark Chen explains, “Empty space isn’t your enemy – it’s your canvas for creative solutions.” From cozy reading nooks to statement plants, there are countless ways to transform those bare corners into functional, stylish areas that reflect your personality.

1. Add a Cozy Reading Nook

A cozy reading nook can transform that awkward empty corner into your favorite spot in the living room. You’ll need to create a comfortable space that’s both functional and inviting, with proper lighting and seating that fits your style.

1. Choose a comfortable armchair or loveseat that’s 30-36 inches wide, allowing enough space to curl up with a book
2. Install adjustable lighting, such as a floor lamp with 800-1000 lumens, positioned 52-55 inches high
3. Add a small side table (18-24 inches wide) for beverages and books
4. Include soft touches like a plush throw blanket and 2-3 decorative pillows

“Proper lighting is essential for reducing eye strain during reading sessions,” notes interior designer Sarah Chen.

2. Add Statement Indoor Plants

Statement indoor plants bring life and visual interest to empty spaces while naturally purifying your living room’s air. They’ll transform blank corners into vibrant focal points when you select the right varieties and positioning.

1. Place a tall Fiddle Leaf Fig (6-8 feet) in an empty corner, using a decorative pot that’s 16-18 inches wide
2. Group three Snake Plants of varying heights (2-4 feet) near a window that gets indirect light
3. Position a cascading Pothos on a 30-inch plant stand to create layers of greenery
4. Add a statement Bird of Paradise (4-5 feet) with broad leaves to fill vertical space

3. Install a Decorative Room Divider

Decorative room dividers offer a clever solution for sectioning off empty spaces while adding visual interest and functionality to your living room.

Interior designer Sarah Chen recommends choosing dividers that complement your existing decor while serving practical purposes. “The key is finding the right balance between form and function,” she explains.

1. Select a folding screen that’s 5-6 feet tall and spans 6-8 feet when fully extended
2. Install a hanging textile divider from ceiling-mounted tracks for flexible separation
3. Position a bookshelf divider perpendicular to walls, filling shelves with decor
4. Mount sliding barn doors on overhead tracks for dramatic, adjustable partitioning

4. Create Gallery Wall Display

1. Choose a cohesive theme by selecting pieces that share similar colors, frames, or subject matter
2. Create a paper template of each frame and test layouts on your wall using painter’s tape
3. Install the center piece first, then work outward in a symmetrical pattern
4. Mix frame sizes and orientations while keeping overall spacing consistent for visual balance

5. Add Plush Floor Cushions

1. Choose oversized cushions (24-36 inches wide) for maximum comfort and impact
2. Layer different heights, with thicker cushions (6-8 inches) against walls and thinner ones (4 inches) toward the center
3. Select weather-resistant fabrics like polyester or cotton blend for durability
4. Arrange cushions in groupings of 3-5 pieces, leaving 18-24 inches of walking space between clusters

6. Add Stylish Accent Bench

1. Choose a bench that’s 36-48 inches wide and 18-20 inches deep for ideal spacing
2. Position your bench against the wall with at least 24 inches of clearance for comfortable seating
3. Add coordinating throw pillows in odd numbers (3 or 5) to enhance visual appeal
4. Consider a storage bench with hidden compartments to maximize functionality in your living space

7. Add Vintage Storage Cabinet

While modern furniture can feel stark and impersonal, a vintage storage cabinet adds character and practicality to your empty living room space. These timeless pieces offer both display options and hidden storage for your belongings while serving as a striking focal point.

1. Choose a cabinet that’s 36-48 inches wide and 15-18 inches deep to maximize storage without overwhelming the space
2. Look for solid wood construction with dovetail joints for lasting durability
3. Select period-appropriate hardware that matches your home’s era
4. Position your cabinet against a wall with at least 3 feet of clearance for easy access

“Vintage cabinets provide unmatched craftsmanship and versatility,” notes interior designer Sarah Chen.

8. Add Geometric Floor Lamp

A geometric floor lamp can transform that dark corner where your vintage cabinet ends into a striking design element. You’ll find these modern fixtures add both functionality and visual interest to your living space.

1. Choose a lamp that’s 60-65 inches tall with angular metallic frames – interior designer Sarah Chen recommends brass or matte black finishes.
2. Position the lamp 16-24 inches from walls and furniture for ideal light spread.
3. Select LED bulbs between 800-1000 lumens for adequate brightness without glare.
4. Consider models with adjustable arms or rotating heads to direct light where needed, especially for reading or accent lighting.

9. Add Oversized Floor Mirror

Looking to instantly expand your room’s perceived size and brightness? An oversized floor mirror can dramatically transform your empty living room space while adding sophistication and depth.

1. Choose a mirror that’s at least 65″ tall and 30″ wide for maximum impact
2. Position it at a 15-degree angle in a corner to reflect natural light
3. Keep it 6-8 inches away from walls to prevent damage
4. Select a frame style that matches your existing decor

Interior designer Sarah Chen explains, “Floor mirrors work best when placed opposite windows or light sources, creating an illusion of doubled space while brightening dark corners.” Consider leaning-style mirrors with safety anchors for a modern, relaxed look.

10. Add Woven Storage Baskets

1. Position a large 24-inch basket next to your sofa to store extra throw blankets and pillows
2. Stack two medium-sized baskets (16-18 inches) near the TV stand for magazines and remote controls
3. Place a tall narrow basket (30 inches) by the entrance for umbrellas and walking sticks
4. Arrange three small matching baskets (12 inches) under your console table for cables and gaming accessories