Long and Narrow

The fireplace, on one of the room's short walls, is the focal point. The long sofa can't be pushed closer to the fireplace because it would create a traffic block. However, lining up the furniture along the walls creates a static, waiting-room feeling and leaves too much distance between pieces for conversation. The piano is crammed into a small corner next to the fireplace, putting two heavy pieces on one end of the room. A large area rug overpowers the small room.

Replace the sofa with a love seat for flexibility in a narrow room. This one can be snuggled up to the fireplace. Pull the chairs away from the window -- where they block both architecture and light -- and let them flank the fireplace, encouraging conversation. For details, look below.

1. Turn a plain corner into a quiet reading nook with a chair, ottoman, and lamplight. 2. A narrow, low bookcase holds books and knickknacks without blocking light or traffic. 3. A small area rug bridges the gap between seating pieces to define and warm the conversation area. 4. Move big items, such as a piano, away from the room's focal point for better balance. 5. Push a love seat closer to the fire. Replace traffic-blocking end tables with a sofa table. 6. Don't have a fireplace to anchor your scheme? Create a focal point with a wall unit or armoire.