Furniture Arrangement

Furniture Arrangement Function of the Space : How a space will be used. Dictates the selection and arrangement of furniture. Circulation Patterns: Can people comfortably walk through the room Are there clearances between furniture for circulation Scale and Proportion of the room and the furniture Will the furniture fit in the room. Are the pieces to big or to small Mechanical or architectural functions that must be considered when placing furniture: Air circulation vents, doors, windows, electrical outlets, phone jacks, television cables or antenna lines, fireplaces, and stairs

Furniture Arrangement Create a feeling of balance in a room: Opposite walls should lend visual weight Visual mass is more important than dimensions Furniture groupings should be balanced Do not over crowd the room with furniture Use furniture as the emphasis in the room: Group furniture around a focal point If the room lacks a focal point, use a piece of furniture as a focal point

Furniture Arrangement What are some activities that commonly take place in the living area? The ideal diameter for the primary conversation area: 8-10 feet Secondary furniture grouping: Seating for 1-3 people Small chairs, benches, etc. Secondary grouping Primary Conversation.

Furniture Arrangement What activities take place in family rooms? Furniture to put in a family room: Durable and easily-maintained furniture Furniture should be grouped according to activities. Conversation. Dining, games, etc.

Common furniture arrangements

Straight line All furniture in one line. Very open to other things going on in the space. Difficult for conversation.

L- Shape Good for conversation, can be used as a room divider Primary and secondary conversation areas.

U Shape Usually used in large open floor plans. Designed for conversation. Good for defining the living space.

Box Shape Takes up a lot of space. Good for large groups. Multiple conversation areas.

Parallel Helps to draw attention to the focal wall. Difficult for conversation Open to other activities in the room.