Designing Your Space: Balancing Furniture and Color
- Sharon Nelson
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 4
The Importance of Layout in Your Home Design
New home or old, the most important part of design is the layout. You must ensure a good balance in weight and color of your furniture throughout the room. Some homes have large spaces but with windows and doors in unusual places, making furniture placement challenging. Keeping the path open between rooms and placing furniture properly may seem overwhelming. However, it is quite simple once you keep in mind the balance of weight, the intended use of the room, and the proper size of the furniture.
Choosing Your Color Palette
What are your favorite colors? Which three work well together? If you enjoy earth tones, consider adding an accent color, such as blue or green. By introducing an accent color, you can create interest in your color scheme. The key is to limit yourself to three main colors and build from there. Having too many colors makes the space feel chaotic.
Once you choose your accent color, distribute it around the room instead of concentrating it in one area. Use pillows, art, and accessories to carry the color throughout the space. This approach helps create a cohesive look that is pleasing to the eye.
Functional Furniture Placement
The placement of your furniture is crucial for comfort and usability. Are you designing around a TV or a beautiful view? Do you anticipate a large gathering or just a few guests? Understanding how you plan to use the room is vital in the layout process.
When thinking about layout, keep the function in mind. For instance, if you expect to entertain guests frequently, ensure that seating areas are conducive to conversation and interaction. You want everyone to feel included and comfortable.

Here is a perfect example of balance in the weight of the furniture. Having a pair of chairs on each side of the sofa with the right-sized coffee table provides great stability. Repeating the blue in the chairs, pillows, and accents brings the color around the room beautifully. The cream tones in the rug and sofa complement the blues while also harmonizing with the gold glass accessories.
By keeping the color story simple and ensuring the placement of furniture is balanced, you create a unified and inviting space.
Creative Layout Ideas
I have always loved the look of two sofas facing each other! This setup promotes conversation and connection. The blue sofas look fantastic with the rug, while the white chairs serve as the perfect accent color pulled from the rug.
Swivel chairs work wonderfully with a round accent table, promoting an adaptable and friendly atmosphere. Angled chairs paired with a rectangular table can create visual conflict. Selecting the right shapes is essential for successful design. This room is ideal for small gatherings, ensuring that everyone feels included and part of the conversation.

Another great example of balance can be seen in the way the color flows throughout the room, as well as in the weight distribution of the sectional and chairs. The fuchsia chairs were chosen first, with draperies made from the same fabric to ensure harmony.
The sectional comfortably seats a good number of people, and its placement is perfect for watching TV. The traffic pattern flows nicely between the kitchen and family room, which is vital for an inviting space. These details are crucial as you plan your room.

Your Vision in Action
I hope these tips on furniture placement and color use help you pull together your rooms. Remember, Nelson Designs in the Waterfront is here to help you select the best pieces for your home. We are happy to measure your space and create a scaled plan to show you how furniture works best in your room. With over 150 furniture manufacturers available through us, we can definitely find what is perfect for your home.
The Power of Skilled Design Assistance
Designing a room can be a daunting task. That's why seeking assistance from professionals can simplify the process. A skilled designer will navigate the complexities of furniture placement and color selection effectively. They can also offer fresh ideas that you might not have considered.
Investing in a designer ensures you achieve a beautiful, functional, and harmonious space that reflects your style and needs. Consider exploring this route if you're feeling overwhelmed or if you want to elevate your design game.
By following these guidelines, your home will not only look beautiful, but it will also feel welcoming and comfortable for all who enter. Happy decorating!
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