10 Creative Ideas for Your Living Room’s Empty Corner: Designer-Approved Tips to Turn That Awkward Space Into Your Favorite Spot

As an interior designer with over 10 years of experience, I’ve seen how trends in small-space living have completely changed the way we look at design. These days, even an empty corner in your living room can become a focal point rather than wasted space. In fact, I’ve found that small or awkward spaces often spark the most creative solutions. In this article, I’ll share 10 of my favorite ways to transform empty corners, blending personal experience with expert-backed strategies.

1. Cozy Reading Nook

My Take: In my own apartment, a forgotten corner became my go-to reading nook with just a comfortable chair, a small side table, and a warm throw. It’s a simple yet satisfying transformation.

Pros: Creates a personal retreat without major renovations; adding layered lighting can enhance the calm vibe. According to Houzz’s 2023 design report, reading corners have grown in popularity in small living rooms.

Cons: If you don’t read much, you might find the space underused. Also, depending on your seating choice, it can visually crowd the corner.

Tip: Choose a chair with a slim profile so it doesn’t overwhelm the space.

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2. Floating Shelves Display

My Take: I once installed staggered floating shelves in a client’s corner to display travel souvenirs and plants. It created vertical interest and kept the floor clear.

Pros: Maximizes vertical storage space; easy to customize height and spacing.

Cons: Requires drilling into walls; not ideal for renters unless you have permission. Dusting can also be a small chore.

Case: Pairing shelves with minimalist living room storage design helps keep the rest of the room clutter-free.

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3. Corner Plant Oasis

My Take: I love bringing life into interiors with greenery. Grouping plants of varied heights can turn a dull corner into a vibrant mini indoor garden.

Pros: Improves air quality; adds texture and color naturally. Biophilic design studies (Kellert, 2018) show that natural elements reduce stress.

Cons: Needs consistent care and light; if too crowded, can attract pests. Be mindful of pets and toxic plants.

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4. Accent Chair + Side Table

My Take: A bold accent chair paired with a unique table can inject instant personality. I used this in a penthouse project to break up a long wall.

Pros: Great way to introduce a pop of color or pattern; functional extra seating for guests.

Cons: Can feel like “filler” if not chosen with intention; might interfere with traffic flow in tight spaces.

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5. Compact Home Office

My Take: During 2020, I transformed a rarely used corner into a fully functional work-from-home station with a wall-mounted desk and slim chair.

Pros: Makes use of otherwise wasted space; keeps work zone separate from main living area.

Cons: Limited surface area; can feel cramped for those who need multiple monitors.

Case: Planning your desk around an L-shaped layout that frees up more floor space can make even a small corner feel efficient.

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6. Floor Lamp Statement Piece

My Take: In one client’s blush-and-gold living room, a sculptural floor lamp filled a dark corner beautifully, doubling as art and lighting.

Pros: Adds illumination and atmosphere; easy to move if you rearrange.

Cons: Cords can become visible clutter; certain designs may tip over in small spaces if not sturdy.

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7. Corner Gallery Wall

My Take: I once wrapped a gallery wall around a corner with family photos, making the space feel intimate and storytelling-driven.

Pros: Utilizes both adjacent walls; personalizes your space instantly.

Cons: Too many frames can overwhelm; tricky to get alignment right.

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8. Bar Cart or Beverage Station

My Take: For a client who loved entertaining, we installed a slim bar cart in a living room corner—it looked chic and was functional.

Pros: Adds social functionality; portable and easy to style.

Cons: Needs regular tidying; not ideal in homes with small children.

Idea: Add a small mirror behind it to visually expand the space.

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9. Corner Bench with Storage

My Take: I’ve used built-in corner benches to add seating and hidden storage, especially in open-plan apartments.

Pros: Multi-functional; perfect for storing blankets, games, or shoes.

Cons: Fixed design means less flexibility; requires custom work.

Case: Designing with wood elements to add a warm atmosphere works for living areas too.

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10. Sculptural or Statement Decor

My Take: Sometimes all you need is one big, bold piece—a tall sculpture or oversized vase can turn a corner into an art display.

Pros: High visual impact with minimal fuss; easy to change out seasonally.

Cons: Requires careful proportioning to avoid overpowering the room.

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Summary

An empty corner in your living room isn’t a limitation—it’s an opportunity for smarter, more thoughtful design. Whether with furniture, greenery, or lighting, you can make small spaces work harder for you. As the American Society of Interior Designers noted in 2023, multifunctionality is now a driving force in home design. Which of these 10 ideas would you most like to try?

FAQ

1. What are the best ideas for filling an empty living room corner?

Use multifunctional furniture, greenery, or art to enhance both function and style.

2. Can plants thrive in corner spaces?

Yes, if the light conditions match their needs. Consider low-light species like snake plants.

3. Is a corner home office ergonomic?

Yes, with the right desk height and chair support, as recommended by OSHA’s home workstation guidelines.

4. What’s the cheapest way to decorate an empty corner?

Use thrifted chairs, DIY shelves, or rearrange existing décor for a fresh look.

5. Are floating shelves good for small living rooms?

Absolutely — they save floor space while providing display storage.

6. How do I avoid making my corner look cluttered?

Stick to a consistent color palette and limit decorative items.

7. Can I turn a corner into a mini bar?

Yes, a slim bar cart works perfectly — see our AI interior design ideas for styling tips.

8. Which lighting works best for corners?

Floor lamps, wall sconces, and adjustable spotlights can all highlight the space attractively.