11x17 ft Living Room Layout Ideas: 5 Creative Ways to Style an 11x17 ft Living Room with Entry Hall

One time, a client asked me to fit a piano, a home office desk, and a reading nook into their 11x17 ft living room with an entry hall. I laughed at first, but then I realized—it’s actually possible if you think vertically and plan smart. Small-ish spaces aren’t a limitation; they’re an excuse to be more creative and intentional. Today I’m sharing 5 design inspirations from my own projects.

Tip 1: Define Zones without Building Walls

In narrow rooms like this, you need invisible boundaries. I’ve used rugs and changes in ceiling lighting to separate a sitting area from the entry space. Works great for flow, but you have to avoid overly large furniture right by the door or it’ll feel cramped.

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Tip 2: Embrace Multi‑Use Furniture

I’m a fan of ottomans that double as coffee tables, and consoles that store shoes while holding lamps. In an entry‑living combo, these pieces save you from clutter but require regular decluttering to stay effective. You can sketch ideas easily using an online free floor plan creator before buying anything.

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Tip 3: Floating Furniture Arrangements

Instead of pushing everything against the wall, try floating the sofa with a narrow table behind it. This gives the entry area breathing room and subtly guides movement. Just keep traffic pathways at least 3 ft wide so nobody bumps into corners.

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Tip 4: Vertical Storage Tricks

Walls can store more than you think—slim shelves by the entry catch keys, hooks handle coats, and tall bookcases frame the seating area. One challenge is balancing storage with visual openness, so use lighter colors or open shelving. Testing a draft layout with a kitchen layout planner actually works as a crossover tool here.

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Tip 5: Play with Light and Reflection

Narrow spaces benefit hugely from smart light placement and mirrors opposite windows. I once turned an awkward corner into a statement area with a floor lamp and oversized mirror—it felt almost double the size. Just be cautious with mirror placement to avoid weird reflections.

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FAQ

Q1: How do I arrange furniture in an 11x17 ft living room?

Keep major pieces proportional, create clear walkways, and define functional zones with rugs or lighting.

Q2: How wide should the entry hall be?

Ideally 3–4 ft for comfortable movement; narrower spaces can work with minimal furnishings or wall-mounted storage.

Q3: Can I fit a dining area in this layout?

Yes, a small 4‑seater table can work near the entry if the furniture layout allows easy traffic flow.

Q4: What colors make a small living room look bigger?

Light neutrals, soft pastels, and consistent tones across walls and large furniture help expand the visual space.

Q5: Is it okay to place the sofa facing the entry?

Yes, but angle it slightly or add a console table behind to prevent the 'waiting room' look.

Q6: How do I maximize storage here?

Use vertical shelving, under‑seat storage in benches, and multipurpose pieces.

Q7: Should I use curtains or blinds?

Lightweight curtains or roller blinds work well; avoid heavy drapes that make the room feel smaller.

Q8: Where can I find tools to plan my room?

You can try online interactive tools to visualize layouts—Coohom offers helpful options for room layout planning.