How to: Choose the Right Living Room Furniture

(That Actually Suits Your Life)

Choosing living room furniture can feel like juggling a million questions at once. Will that sofa fit? Do the colours clash? Is this coffee table stylish or just in the way? Whether you're refreshing your space or starting from scratch, this guide will help you make confident choices that actually work for your life, your home, and your style.

Mosaic Black and White Circular Coffee Table

Start With Your Space

Before you even peek at a sofa, take a good look at your room. Think about how you use the space: Is it a chill-out zone? A family hub? A party pad? Your lifestyle will shape the pieces you need.

Measure first. Don’t eyeball it — measure wall-to-wall, window heights, radiator positions, and plug points. Then sketch out a rough layout (even if it’s on the back of an envelope).
Plan the flow. Leave enough room to move comfortably around furniture. For example, 45cm is a good distance between a sofa and coffee table.
Use your focal point. Whether it’s a fireplace or a TV unit, start your layout from there.

Pick Pieces with Purpose

Now the fun bit — choosing your furniture. The key is to pick pieces that serve your space and your style:

Sofas

Go for comfort and size-appropriateness. At The Designer Rooms, our range includes compact 2-seaters, sprawling corner sofas, armchairs, and everything in between.

TV Units

Look for something that suits your tech setup and hides wires, with enough storage for extras. Our TV units come in both modern and classic finishes.

Coffee Tables

Think practical: do you need hidden storage? Or something light you can move around? Browse coffee tables that match your space’s vibe.

Sideboards & Display Cabinets

Great for stashing everything from board games to extra throws. Display cabinets also add character — ideal if you're short on wall art.

Side Tables & Console Tables

Add surfaces exactly where you need them. A side table by the sofa, or a console in the hallway, keeps things looking finished.

Footstools

Not just for feet — these are ideal for extra seating or trays of drinks. Some of our footstools even come with hidden storage.

Style It Your Way

Matchy-matchy is out. Layering textures, tones and finishes is in. Whether you're going modern, rustic or classic:

Stick to a palette. Pick 2–3 key colours and repeat them across your furniture and accessories.
Balance wood tones. It’s okay to mix light and dark, just make sure they’re spaced evenly.
Use contrast. Soft fabrics (like velvet and boucle sofas) pop next to hard surfaces (like glass tables or metallic legs).

Trending Styles & Colour Palettes

Need some inspiration? Here’s what’s trending right now:

Soft Neutrals – Cream, beige and taupe are popular for creating calming, airy spaces.
Bold Accents – A statement chair or coloured sideboard in deep green, rust or navy adds interest.
Natural Textures – Think rattan, raw wood and linen to bring an organic, timeless look.

Modern Heritage – Mixing traditional shapes with updated colours — like a classic wingback in grey velvet.

Make It Feel Like Home

The right accessories pull a room together. Once you’ve sorted the big stuff, add:

Rugs to zone areas and add warmth
Table lamps for softer, layered lighting
Reed diffusers to give the space its own signature scent
Cushions and throws for comfort and colour. Don’t be afraid to mix textures — think chunky knits, smooth velvets, soft cottons.
Artwork and mirrors to add personality and light. A well-placed mirror can even make the space feel bigger.
Plants (real or faux) to bring life and a bit of nature inside. Go for tall leafy types in corners or trailing plants on shelves.
Personal touches like books, framed photos or a tray of your favourite candles. These are the things that make a room yours.

It’s not just about looks — it’s about how it feels to spend time there.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Too much furniture. Don’t overfill the space. Give your pieces room to breathe.
Wrong scale. A bulky sofa in a small room will feel oppressive. Likewise, a tiny coffee table in a big room will look lost.
Neglecting storage. Clutter can undo even the most stylish space. Built-in storage is your best friend.