Versatile seating, such as swivel chairs or light chairs that can be easily repositioned, makes it easier to rearrange the furniture for various uses.

A single chair makes a great space for solitary time, such as in a reading nook.

For instance, if you have a side table that you use to hold drinks, be sure that it is located within reach of a chair that you sit in often. Avoid positioning a coffee table so it is “floating” in the middle of a room. Keep it in relation to the sofa or chairs, positioned about 18–24 inches (46–61 cm) away. [5] X Research source

If you have a small space but want a full set of furniture, opt for smaller sofas, chairs, and tables.

Don’t put the furniture against the walls in a square room, as this can make the space feel awkward and uninviting.

The backside of the sofa should face a wall, not a window. Aim to keep the side with the windows open to make the space look larger.

Keep the chairs a comfortable distance from the fireplace.

A convenient way to place the TV is by hanging it on the wall directly over the fireplace. This resolves two competing focal points by merging them into one. Alternatively, place the TV in a cabinet that closes so it doesn’t detract from the fireplace.

Or, hang a large piece of art above the fireplace to create a focal point. Choose something with cohesive colors to pull the room together.

A bright lamp placed right by the fireplace can deaden the lively and welcoming appearance of the flames, for example. Instead, position lamps away from the fireplace, and allow for a relatively low-light setting in which the fireplace can feature prominently. If possible, install 2 recessed lights above the fireplace to create a spotlight effect on the fireplace wall.

To avoid detracting from the fireplace, avoid choosing plants or planters that are too heavy. Don’t go overboard on fake plants or flowers, either.