What To Do With An Empty Corner In Living Room

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Introduction

An empty corner in a living room can be a challenging space to decorate. It often feels like a missed opportunity, but with a little creativity and planning, you can transform that overlooked corner into a functional and stylish area that adds value to your living space.

When considering what to do with an empty corner in your living room, it’s important to assess the available space and think about your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for functional ideas or simply want to enhance the aesthetics of the room, there are plenty of options to explore.

In this article, we’ll dive into some practical and decorative ideas to make the most of that empty corner in your living room. From creating a cozy reading nook to designing a functional workspace, incorporating extra storage, or even embarking on some fun DIY projects, there’s something for everyone. Let’s get started!

Assessing the Space

The first step in deciding what to do with an empty corner in your living room is to assess the available space. Consider the size, shape, and location of the corner to determine what options will work best.

Take measurements of the corner and note any architectural features, such as windows or electrical outlets, that may impact your design choices. This will help you determine what furniture or decorative elements will fit and how to position them effectively.

Next, think about the purpose you want the corner to serve. Do you need extra seating? Additional storage? A small workspace? Or do you simply want to create a visually appealing corner with decorative elements?

Understanding your needs and aspirations for the space will guide your decision-making process. It will also help you narrow down the options and make the most of the corner in a way that complements the overall design of your living room.

Consider the traffic flow in your living room as well. Ensure that any furniture or decorative items you choose for the corner don’t impede movement or create obstacles in the room.

Once you have a clear understanding of the space, its limitations, and your goals, you can move on to exploring the different ideas to transform your empty corner into a functional and visually appealing area.

Functional Ideas

When it comes to making the most of an empty corner in your living room, incorporating functional elements can greatly enhance the usability and efficiency of the space. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Creating a Reading Nook

If you’re an avid reader or enjoy a cozy spot for relaxation, consider transforming the corner into a reading nook. Arrange a comfortable chair or a cozy armchair along with a small side table and a floor lamp to create a dedicated space for reading. Add some cushions, a throw blanket, and a bookshelf nearby to complete the cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Creating a Workspace

If you work from home or need a designated space for important tasks, utilize the empty corner as a functional workspace. Install a small desk or a floating shelf with a desk surface. Pair it with a comfortable chair and proper lighting. You can also add a bulletin board or whiteboard to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.

Setting up a Plant Corner

If you have a green thumb or simply love the freshness and vibrancy that indoor plants bring, consider turning the empty corner into a plant corner. Choose a variety of indoor plants that thrive in low-light conditions and arrange them on a plant stand or a dedicated plant shelf. Not only will this add a touch of nature to your living room, but it will also improve air quality.

Incorporating Extra Storage

Add functionality to the corner by incorporating extra storage options. Install floating shelves or a bookcase to create a display space for books, decorative items, or storage baskets. Alternatively, you can opt for closed storage solutions like a tall cabinet or a chest of drawers to hide away clutter and keep your living room organized.

These functional ideas not only utilize the empty corner effectively but also serve a specific purpose, making your living room more practical and efficient. Assess your needs and preferences to determine which of these ideas will work best for you. Remember to consider the overall aesthetic of your living room and choose furniture and décor that complements the existing style.

Decorative Ideas

An empty corner in your living room is the perfect opportunity to add some decorative elements that can enhance the overall aesthetic and visual appeal of the space. Here are some decorative ideas to consider:

Designing a Cozy Sitting Area

Create a cozy and inviting sitting area in the empty corner. Place a comfortable chair or a small sofa along with a side table and a floor lamp. Add some decorative pillows, a soft rug, and a beautiful piece of artwork or a mirror on the wall. This corner can serve as a perfect spot for relaxation or as a conversation area for guests.

Designing a Gallery Wall

A gallery wall can be a fantastic way to utilize the empty corner and showcase your personal style. Hang a collection of framed artwork, photographs, or unique wall decor pieces. Experiment with the arrangement and mix different sizes and shapes to create an eye-catching display. This decorative feature can become a focal point in your living room.

Creating a Display Corner

Show off your collectibles, memorabilia, or decorative items by creating a display corner in the empty space. Install floating shelves or a wall-mounted cabinet to display your treasures. Arrange them creatively and combine items of different heights and textures to create visual interest. Consider adding some accent lighting to highlight the display during the evenings.

Adding a Statement Plant

If you want to add a touch of nature and make a statement in your living room, why not consider placing a large potted plant in the empty corner? A tall and lush plant, such as a fiddle leaf fig or a palm tree, can instantly elevate the ambiance and add a focal point to the room. Choose a decorative pot that complements your living room’s color scheme and style.

With these decorative ideas, you can transform your empty corner into a visually pleasing and stylish area that enhances the overall design of your living room. Whether you choose to create a cozy sitting area, a gallery wall, a display corner, or add a statement plant, let your creativity shine and reflect your personal taste and style.

Designing a Reading Nook

If you’re an avid reader or simply enjoy a quiet spot for relaxation, designing a reading nook in your empty corner is a wonderful idea. Here are some tips to create the perfect reading nook:

Choose Comfortable Seating

The key to a cozy reading nook is comfortable seating. Consider a plush armchair or an oversized chair with soft cushions. Opt for fabrics that are soft and inviting, such as velvet or linen. Ensure that the chair provides adequate back and neck support so that you can sit for extended periods without discomfort.

Add a Small Side Table

A small side table next to your chair is essential for holding your favorite book, a cup of tea, or reading glasses. Choose a table that is the right height for easy access while seated. You can also use the table to keep a small reading lamp for adequate lighting.

Create Adequate Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for an enjoyable reading experience. Place a floor lamp or a table lamp near your reading nook for soft, focused lighting. Adjustable lamps that allow you to direct the light towards your book are ideal. Natural lighting from nearby windows is also a great option during the day.

Add Cozy Textiles

Enhance the comfort and coziness of your reading nook by adding soft textiles. Place a plush rug under your chair to keep your feet warm. Layer the chair with cushions and a soft throw blanket for added comfort. Textiles not only provide physical comfort but also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the space.

Create a Bookshelf Nearby

To complete the reading nook experience, incorporate a bookshelf nearby to hold your favorite books. You can choose a freestanding bookcase or install floating shelves on an adjacent wall. Organize your books in a visually pleasing manner and consider adding some decorative objects or bookends to add personality to the bookshelf.

Designing a reading nook in your empty corner allows you to create a dedicated space for relaxation and indulging in your favorite books. By incorporating comfortable seating, a small side table, adequate lighting, cozy textiles, and a nearby bookshelf, you can create a cozy and inviting area that invites you to curl up with a good book. Enjoy your reading retreat!

Creating a Workspace

If you work from home or need a designated space for important tasks, transforming the empty corner in your living room into a functional workspace is a practical idea. Here’s how you can create a workspace in your living room:

Select the Right Desk

The first step in creating a workspace is choosing the right desk. Consider the size and shape of your corner and select a desk that fits well in the available space. Opt for a desk with ample surface area to accommodate your computer/laptop, paperwork, and other essential items.

Ergonomic Seating

Invest in an ergonomic chair that is comfortable and supports good posture. Spending prolonged hours at the desk requires proper back and neck support to avoid strain and discomfort. Look for a chair with adjustable height, tilt, and lumbar support to ensure a comfortable and healthy working environment.

Proper Lighting

Good lighting is crucial for a productive workspace. If the corner has access to natural light, position your desk near the window to take advantage of it. Additionally, add a task lamp on your desk to provide focused lighting for reading and working on documents or projects.

Organize Your Supplies

Keep your supplies organized and within easy reach by incorporating storage solutions. Install floating shelves or a small shelving unit above or near your desk to store books, files, stationery, and other necessary items. Utilize desk organizers, drawer dividers, or small baskets to keep things tidy and accessible.

Add Personal Touches

Make your workspace feel more inviting and personalized by adding some decorative elements. Hang a motivational art print or a corkboard for inspirational quotes or important notes. Place a small potted plant or a vase of fresh flowers to add a touch of nature and freshness to your workspace.

Creating a workspace in your living room allows you to have a dedicated area for work while still being a part of the communal space. By selecting the right desk, investing in ergonomic seating, ensuring proper lighting, organizing your supplies, and adding personal touches, you can create a functional and inspiring workspace that blends seamlessly with your living room.

Setting up a Plant Corner

Transform your empty corner in the living room into a vibrant and refreshing plant corner. Here are some steps to guide you in setting up a plant corner:

Selecting the Right Plants

Choose plants that thrive in low-light conditions if your corner doesn’t receive much natural light. Some popular options include snake plants, pothos, zz plants, and peace lilies. If your corner gets sufficient sunlight, you can opt for plants that require more light, such as succulents, spider plants, or aloe vera.

Arranging the Plants

Arrange your plants in a visually pleasing and balanced manner. Place taller plants at the back and shorter ones in the front to create depth and variety. Mix different colors, textures, and leaf shapes to add interest and create a beautiful display. Consider using plant stands or shelves to maximize vertical space.

Choosing the Right Containers

Select attractive containers or plant pots that complement the overall style of your living room. Make sure the pots have proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and optimize plant growth. You can opt for ceramic pots, hanging baskets, or decorative planters to add a touch of style to your plant corner.

Providing Adequate Care

Ensure your plants receive the care they need to thrive. Water your plants according to their individual requirements, and be mindful of humidity levels. Consider using a humidifier or placing a water tray near the plant corner to create a humid microclimate. Rotate your plants periodically to ensure even growth.

Adding Accessories

Enhance the aesthetic appeal of your plant corner by adding some accessories. Hang macrame plant holders or install shelving to display smaller potted plants. Place decorative stones, pebbles, or fairy lights around the pots to add a touch of whimsy and create a cozy atmosphere.

Setting up a plant corner in your empty living room corner not only adds natural beauty but also improves air quality and creates a calming ambiance. By selecting the right plants, arranging them effectively, choosing attractive containers, providing proper care, and adding complementary accessories, you can create a lush and inviting green oasis in your living room.

Incorporating Extra Storage

An empty corner in your living room is a valuable opportunity to incorporate extra storage and keep your space organized. Here are some ideas for utilizing that empty corner for storage:

Install Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a versatile and practical storage solution. They not only provide a place to display decorative items but also offer additional space for storing books, photo frames, or small bins. Install floating shelves in your empty corner at varying heights to create visual interest while maximizing storage capacity.

Add a Corner Bookcase

A corner bookcase is an excellent option for utilizing the vertical space in your empty corner. It provides ample storage for books, magazines, and other personal items, all while making efficient use of the corner area. Choose a bookcase that fits the scale and style of your living room, and consider one with adjustable shelves for added flexibility.

Utilize Storage Baskets

Storage baskets are a practical and stylish way to declutter and hide away items. Place a few baskets in your empty corner to store toys, magazines, blankets, or other miscellaneous items. Opt for baskets that match your living room’s aesthetic and choose ones with lids or handles for easy access and portability.

Incorporate a Corner Cabinet

A corner cabinet is an excellent choice if you require closed storage to keep your living room clutter-free. It can be used to store a variety of items, such as board games, DVDs, or media equipment. Choose a corner cabinet with doors or drawers that blend seamlessly with your living room’s decor and consider one with adjustable shelves for customized storage options.

Combine Seating and Storage

If you’re looking to optimize both seating and storage in your empty corner, consider furniture pieces that offer dual functionality. For example, a storage ottoman or a bench with built-in storage can provide extra seating while also serving as a place to store pillows, blankets, or other small items.

Incorporating extra storage in your empty corner not only helps you keep your living room organized but also adds function and practicality to the space. By installing floating shelves, adding a corner bookcase, utilizing storage baskets, incorporating a corner cabinet, or combining seating and storage, you can make the most of that empty corner and create a clutter-free and visually appealing living room.

Designing a Cozy Sitting Area

Transforming your empty corner into a cozy sitting area is a fantastic way to maximize the use of space while creating a comfortable and inviting spot in your living room. Here’s how to design a cozy sitting area:

Select Comfortable Seating

The key to a cozy sitting area is comfortable seating. Choose a plush armchair or a small sofa that fits within the dimensions of your empty corner. Look for seating with soft cushions and upholstery that complements the overall aesthetic of your living room. Ensure that the seating provides proper support for your back and arms for maximum comfort.

Add Soft Lighting

The lighting in your sitting area can greatly enhance the cozy ambiance. Avoid bright overhead lights and opt for softer, more intimate lighting options. Place a floor lamp or a table lamp next to the seating to provide warm and gentle illumination. Consider using lamps with adjustable brightness settings for versatility and creating different moods.

Incorporate Warm Textures

Add warmth and coziness to your sitting area by incorporating soft and tactile textures. Layer the seating with plush cushions, throws, and blankets. Choose fabrics like velvet, faux fur, or knitted materials to evoke a sense of comfort and luxury. Mix and match different textures and patterns to add visual interest and create a cozy atmosphere.

Create a Side Table or Coffee Table

A side table or coffee table is essential in a cozy sitting area as a convenient surface for placing drinks, books, or decorative items. Opt for a table that matches the style and scale of your seating. Consider tables with storage options, such as drawers or shelves, to keep essential items within reach and minimize clutter.

Add Personal Touches

Make your cozy sitting area feel more personalized by adding personal touches. Display your favorite books on a small bookshelf or a decorative stack on the side table. Hang artwork or photographs that resonate with you on the nearby wall. Incorporate items that bring you joy, such as candles, plants, or sentimental objects, to create a warm and inviting space.

Designing a cozy sitting area in your empty living room corner allows you to create a dedicated space for relaxation and unwinding. By selecting comfortable seating, adding soft lighting, incorporating warm textures, creating a side table or coffee table, and adding personal touches, you can create a cozy sanctuary where you can retreat and enjoy moments of comfort and tranquility.

DIY Corner Projects

If you’re feeling creative and want to add a personalized touch to your empty living room corner, consider undertaking a DIY project. Here are some DIY corner project ideas that you can try:

Corner Gallery Wall

Create a unique and eye-catching corner gallery wall by displaying a collection of your favorite artwork, photographs, or prints. Use various frame sizes and styles to add visual interest. Arrange them in a creative manner to maximize the corner space. This project not only adds a personal touch but also serves as a conversation starter.

Custom Corner Shelves

If your empty corner lacks storage or display space, build custom corner shelves. Measure the dimensions of the corner, then cut and install wooden planks or repurpose old bookcases to fit the space. Paint or stain the shelves to match your living room’s aesthetic. Use them to showcase decorative items, books, or plants.

Fabric-Wrapped Corner Bench

Create a cozy and stylish seating area by crafting a fabric-wrapped corner bench. Build a simple bench frame using plywood or repurpose an old bench. Cut and upholster foam padding for the seat and backrest. Wrap the bench with your chosen fabric and secure it with a staple gun. Add decorative pillows and cushions for extra comfort.

Corner Ladder Shelf

Build a unique and space-saving corner ladder shelf using wooden boards and dowels. Cut the boards into ladder-shaped pieces and attach them with dowels to create the tiers. Sand and paint the ladder shelf in your desired color. Use it to display books, plants, or decorative items. This DIY project adds a stylish and functional element to your living room corner.

Repurposed Corner Bar Cart

Transform an old bar cart into a corner bar for entertaining. Clean and repaint the cart to give it a fresh new look. Use the shelves to store and display your favorite drinks, glassware, and cocktail accessories. Add some decorative touches like a stylish tray, a small plant, or a bar sign to create an inviting corner bar area.

Embarking on a DIY project for your empty living room corner allows you to unleash your creativity and customize the space according to your style and needs. Whether it’s creating a corner gallery wall, building custom shelves or seating, or repurposing furniture, these DIY projects add a personal touch and showcase your craftsmanship in your living room.

Conclusion

Your empty corner in the living room doesn’t have to go to waste. With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform it into a functional and visually appealing space that adds value to your living area. Whether you choose to incorporate functional elements or focus on decorative aspects, the possibilities are endless.

Assess the space and determine the purpose you want it to serve. Do you need extra seating, storage, or a designated workspace? Or do you want to create a cozy reading nook, a plant corner, or a beautiful sitting area? By understanding your needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision on how to utilize the corner effectively.

Consider the overall design and style of your living room when selecting furniture, decor, and storage options for the corner. Ensure that they complement the existing aesthetic and create a cohesive look.

Remember, personalization is key. Infuse your unique style and personality into the corner to make it feel like a true reflection of your taste. Add personal touches, incorporate DIY projects, or display cherished items to make the space truly your own.

By following the ideas mentioned in this article, such as designing a cozy sitting area, creating a plant corner, or incorporating extra storage, you can transform that once-empty corner into a functional and beautiful space that enhances your living room.

Embrace the opportunity to be creative and explore different possibilities. Experiment with furniture placement, colors, textures, and accessories to achieve the desired look and feel. Your living room corner has the potential to become a standout feature of your space.

So why let that corner go to waste? Take action and turn it into something remarkable, whether it be a practical addition or a decorative focal point. Every corner of your home is an opportunity for creativity and improvement, so go ahead and make the most of it!