How To Decorate Your Living Room Corners
We could all use a bit of guidance when it comes to decorating. Why not give these tips a try?
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Prioritize Functionality
I always start by thinking about how space can be useful. Whether it’s a reading nook or extra storage, make sure the corner serves a purpose. -
Scale Matters
When filling an empty corner, choose furniture and decor that fit well in the space. Avoid oversized pieces that can overwhelm the area. -
Consistency in Style
I like to keep the style of the corner in harmony with the rest of the room. Whether it’s modern, rustic, or boho, consistency makes the space feel cohesive. -
Layering Textures
Mixing different textures can add depth and interest to a corner. Think about combining soft fabrics, wood, metal, and glass elements. -
Lighting is Key
Proper lighting can transform a corner. Consider floor lamps, table lamps, or even hanging lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. -
Greenery Adds Life
Adding plants can instantly brighten up a corner and bring a touch of nature indoors. I love how plants can make a space feel more vibrant and fresh. -
Use Vertical Space
Don’t forget about the walls. Floating shelves, lovely artwork, or a tall bookcase can utilize vertical space effectively, adding both functionality and style. -
Look at the Room as a Whole Before Adding Anything More to It
It’s important to consider the entire room’s layout and design before adding new elements. This helps maintain balance and ensures that the new decor complements the existing space. -
Cover Your Windows with Beautiful Curtains
Beautiful curtains can enhance the overall look of your living room. Choose curtains that complement your decor and add a touch of elegance to the space. -
Experiment with Colors
I like to use the corner to introduce a pop of color that complements the room’s palette. It’s a great way to make the space stand out without being too bold.
18 Empty Corner Living Room Decor Ideas
Let’s dive into some creative ways to fill those empty corners in your living room.
I’ll share some ideas that I’ve found really transform these spaces.
Cozy Reading Nook
I love turning an empty corner by the window into a cozy reading nook.
Adding a comfortable chair, a small side table, and a good lamp creates a perfect spot to unwind with a book.
One of my favorite examples is from u/thorwex, who turned an empty space by the window into a bright, happy reading spot.
The sunlight filtering through the sheer curtains makes the IKEA Poäng chair irresistible for relaxing with a book or even catching a show on the nearby TV.
It’s such a simple setup, but it instantly turns that corner into a warm and inviting focal point.
Indoor Plant Corner
An indoor plant in the corner can bring life and freshness to your living room.
I usually choose a mix of tall plants and smaller ones on stands or shelves.
Tip: Choose plants that thrive in indoor light conditions like Fiddle Leaf Fig, Snake Plant, Pothos, or Spider Plant to ensure they stay healthy and vibrant.
For a more boho-inspired look, u/spiritualaroma filled their empty corner with layers of greenery, woven baskets, and geometric wooden shelves.
The mix of textures and the placement near a bright window make it a lively and inviting spot.
I think this would be such a lovely space to sit with a coffee or just enjoy the view of your plants thriving.
Artistic Display Area
Showcasing art in a corner can make it a focal point of the room. I like to hang a few favorite pieces or create a small gallery wall.
I love how u/Saltycow made their so-called “small” living room feel airy and full of life with a bold gallery wall in the corner.
A soft blue armchair, layered textures, and pops of orange give the space a beachy yet cozy vibe, proving that even a small corner can hold a lot of personality.
It’s the kind of setup that makes you want to linger and take in all the details.
I also love how u/bajolamedia styled their sofa corner in Stockholm with a bold gallery wall, a lush green throw, and vibrant plants.
It’s a mix of modern Scandinavian simplicity and cozy textures that makes the space feel warm and inviting.
This kind of corner makes you want to sink into the couch and stay awhile.
Home Office Space
If you need a small workspace, an empty corner can be perfect for a compact desk and a comfortable chair.
Keep it minimal to avoid clutter.
Tip: Use wall-mounted organizers or shelves to keep your desk area tidy and efficient.
If you’re into crafting, you can turn an empty corner into a mini studio, like this Reddit user did with their sewing nook.
Using an IKEA kitchen island as a work table, wall shelves for machines, and a rolling cart for supplies, they created a space that’s both beautiful and highly functional.
It’s proof that even a small corner can become a fully equipped creative zone without taking over the rest of the living room.
Beverage Station
Set up a chic beverage station with a small cart or cabinet.
Stock it with your favorite drinks, glasses, and a few decorative items.
Tip: Add a stylish tray to organize your items and make the station look more polished.
Aesthetic Book Collection
I adore how u/Tuesday-Next- repurposed an old firewood nook by the fireplace into built-in bookshelves.
This clever use of space keeps the books accessible while adding so much character to the corner, especially when paired with a soft sofa, warm lighting, and their adorable mini goldendoodle curled up nearby.
It’s the perfect example of how functionality and coziness can come together beautifully.
Another idea I adore is from u/alitheamazon, who turned an unused fireplace nook into a cozy corner just for their dog.
The flickering real candles inside the fireplace add a warm farmhouse charm, while the elevated TV with a tilt mount keeps the space practical without losing its cozy vibe.
It’s such a smart way to make an empty corner feel like the heart of the room—whether for you or your furry friend.
Coffee Station and Circular Mirror
A small coffee table paired with a lovely circular mirror above it can transform an empty corner into a stylish focal point.
I find that this combination not only looks elegant but also makes the space feel more open and inviting.
Place a chic lamp, a few decorative items, or even a stack of your favorite books on the coffee table to enhance the look.
Tip: Choose a coffee table with storage options, like shelves or drawers, to keep the area tidy and organized while adding functionality to the space.
Accent Table with Decorative Lamp
Set up a stylish accent table with a unique lamp to create a cozy and functional corner.
Tip: Add a small tray on the table for keys and small items to keep the space tidy.
Music Corner
Create a dedicated space for your musical instruments or sound system.
A small stand or shelf can hold your music collection, while a comfy chair invites you to sit and enjoy.
Tip: Add some sound-absorbing materials, like a rug or thick curtains, to improve the acoustics of your music corner.
u/nexttotheinfluence created my dream music corner — a gleaming gold-top guitar, a vibrant Orange amp, lush plants, and vinyl album covers as wall art. It’s both a practical jam space and a stylish part of the living room, showing that hobbies can blend seamlessly with home decor. Honestly, I think this kind of setup makes you want to spend more time enjoying your passion.
I also love the music corner from u/Fit_Veterinarian_308, which blends warm lighting, a rustic brick fireplace, and an impressive lineup of guitars — plus the sweetest Chow Chow napping inside the hearth.
It’s such a personal and cozy setup, proving that even a small living room corner can feel like a modern retreat filled with your passions.
Would you keep it as is or add a few plants for a pop of greenery?
I work in tech, but my taste in design is straight out of a slow European village. Give me arches, aged brass, and a room that smells like books and coffee. That’s my kind of home.