Find 50+ Gorgeous Decorating A Long Rectangular Living Room For Every Budget

When it comes to designing a living room, one of the most common challenges is dealing with a long and narrow space. Many homeowners struggle with finding the right layout and decor for their long rectangular living room. But fear not, with some creative thinking and strategic planning, you can transform your long living room into a stylish and functional space that you and your guests will love. Here are our top 10 tips for decorating a long rectangular living room.

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to have a clear vision of the overall look and feel you want to achieve in your living room. Do you want a cozy and intimate space or a more open and airy feel? Are you drawn to a particular color scheme or style? These questions will guide your decor choices and help you create a cohesive design.

The key to a successful long rectangular living room design is finding the right layout. One of the most common mistakes is placing all the furniture against the walls, which can make the space feel disconnected and awkward. Instead, try floating your furniture to create a more intimate seating area in the center of the room. This will also help to break up the space and make it feel less like a bowling alley.

When it comes to furniture, less is more in a long rectangular living room. Stick to the essentials, such as a sofa, armchairs, and a coffee table, and avoid overcrowding the space with unnecessary pieces. If you have a large living room, consider dividing it into two separate seating areas to make the space feel more inviting.

If your living room is narrow, it's essential to create the illusion of width. One way to achieve this is by using mirrors. Mirrors reflect light and make a space feel more expansive. You can also hang curtains higher than the window and extend them beyond the frame to create the illusion of larger windows and a wider space.

Another design tip for a long living room is to use rugs to define different areas within the space. A larger rug can anchor the seating area, while smaller rugs can define a reading nook or entryway. Just make sure the rugs are proportionate to the furniture and leave enough space around the edges to avoid a cluttered look.

When it comes to color schemes, lighter shades are your best bet for a long rectangular living room. Light colors reflect light and make a space feel more open and airy. You can add pops of color with pillows, throws, and other accessories to add interest and personality to the room. Avoid using too many dark or heavy colors, as they can make the space feel even longer and narrower.

If your long living room is also small, you'll need to be even more strategic with your design choices. Stick to light colors, minimal furniture, and incorporate multi-functional pieces such as storage ottomans or side tables with hidden storage. Avoid bulky or oversized furniture, as it will only make your already small space feel cramped.

When it comes to decorating your walls, don't be afraid to go vertical. Hang shelves, artwork, or a gallery wall to draw the eye upwards and make the room feel taller. You can also use large mirrors or a statement piece of wall art to create a focal point and add interest to the room.

Lighting is crucial in any room, but it's especially important in a long rectangular living room. Avoid relying on just one central ceiling light, as it can make the room feel harsh and uninviting. Instead, mix and match different types of lighting, such as overhead lights, table lamps, and floor lamps, to create layers of light and add warmth to the space.