
When faced with an empty room, arranging furniture can feel like a daunting hit-or-miss task. Over the years, our real estate agents have picked up some practical tips and easy-to-apply principles from interior designers that take the guesswork out of arranging any room in the house.
Whether you're planning a move to Augusta homes for sale or just revitalizing a dull room, taking a practical approach to furniture arranging is important. Here are some tips from the design pros that will ensure a comfortable, inviting room with maximum design appeal.
Measure the Room
Before you start moving furniture, grab a tape measure and measure the room dimensions including the length and width of the walls and the ceiling height. Next, measure the length and width of furniture pieces, especially large items, you plan to place in the room. Don't move a large, heavy item into the room, then realize it won't fit. With a computer or cell phone, modern technology allows you to use room layout apps that let you see all items you place in the room, even accessories.
Choose a Focal Point
Designers know that every room should have a focal point that draws attention and anchors the space. A focal point is usually a prominent or interesting feature in the room, like a fireplace, a nook or window seat, windows with a view, or a large, impressive painting. Once you choose your focal point, orient your seating, so it takes advantage of the focal point as much as possible.
Create a Visual Balance
When arranging furniture in a room, you need to create good visual balance by considering the size, placement, and shape of items in the space. Rather than grouping all of the large, heavy items or small items in one area, space them out in the room. If your furniture has straight lines, throw in a few round tables to create a good balance.
Consider the Traffic Flow
Good traffic flow is key to a well-arranged, inviting room. You and your guests should not be bumping into furniture or each other or tripping over rugs when walking through the room. Make sure you leave at least 2 feet between furniture items to create a clear path and anchor edges of throw rugs under furniture. When arranging furniture in the bedroom, consider the size of your bed. Leave at least 2 feet on either side to allow enough room to change the sheets and make the bed. To prevent the bed from becoming a hazardous roadblock, leave at least 3 feet between the door and the bed.
Focus on the Light
Lighting is an important design element in any room. If your room has good natural light, take advantage of that with your furniture arrangement, then add a mix of overhead lighting, floor lamps, sconces, and table lamps. To achieve proper balance, lighting needs to be placed at different levels throughout the room.
Create Conversation Areas
In living rooms and family rooms where people gather, it's essential to arrange the furniture to create good conversation areas. For face-to-face chats, don't place the seating more than 8 feet apart. If your room is large, you can place two sofas facing each other in the center of the room and place groups of chairs in different areas.
If you're thinking about a move to Augusta, contact us for information on available properties and prices that fit your lifestyle.