10 Small Living Room Ideas with Fireplace and TV: Creative design tips from my 10+ years of small space design experience

In recent years, open and multifunctional living spaces have been in trend, especially when it comes to small living room ideas with fireplace and TV. From my own projects, I’ve learned that small spaces can spark big ideas. Today, I’ll share 10 practical and stylish inspirations from my real cases and expert data so you can make your living area functional, cozy, and beautiful.

1. Minimalist Built‑In Shelving Around Fireplace

My Take: I once redesigned a 15 m² living room where the TV and fireplace shared the same wall. By adding minimalist built‑in shelves, the wall became both a focal point and storage.

Pros: This approach maximizes vertical space and keeps the area clutter‑free. Integrating shelves around a fireplace and TV also improves room symmetry and serves as a design statement.

Cons: Custom carpentry can be pricey, and heat management needs attention if the fireplace is wood‑burning.

Tip: Choose heat‑resistant materials and allow proper ventilation. For more inspiration, check out minimalist shelving solutions for small living rooms.

save pin

2. Combining Wall‑Mounted TV with Floating Mantel

My Take: In a recent city loft project, I floated the mantel below the wall‑mounted TV. This kept lines clean and freed up floor space.

Pros: Saves space, adds contemporary feel, allows for décor display without blocking the view.

Cons: Requires sturdy wall support; cable management can be tricky if the wall is brick.

Tip: Hide cables inside the wall for the sleekest look.

save pin

3. L‑Shaped Sofa to Define the Space

My Take: Small living rooms benefit greatly from furniture zoning. An L‑shaped sofa naturally frames the fireplace and TV area without walls.

Pros: Creates a cozy conversation corner; maximizes seating without overcrowding.

Cons: May limit flexibility for re‑arrangement.

Tip: Opt for modular sections that can be split when needed.

save pin

4. Low‑Profile Furniture for an Airy Feel

My Take: I often choose low‑back chairs and coffee tables to keep sight lines open between the seating area, TV, and fireplace.

Pros: Enhances the openness; suitable for minimalist or Scandinavian styles.

Cons: Not ideal for people who prefer high‑back ergonomic support.

Tip: Pair low seating with an accent rug to anchor the atmosphere.

save pin

5. Mirrored Panels to Visually Expand Space

My Take: In a 12 m² apartment, installing a mirrored wall opposite the fireplace doubled the perceived width.

Pros: Reflects light, makes the room appear larger, and enhances warmth from the fireplace glow. Albert Hill, co‑founder of The Modern House, notes that mirrors are "the most underused architectural element for spatial perception."

Cons: Needs frequent cleaning; can reflect clutter if the room is untidy.

Tip: Use antique‑finish mirrors for a softer reflection.

save pin

6. Double‑Sided Fireplace Between Living and Dining

My Take: For open‑plan apartments, a double‑sided fireplace can create zones while keeping warmth and visual linkage.

Pros: Shares heat between two spaces; adds luxury focal point.

Cons: Installation cost is higher; flue planning must be precise.

Tip: Combine with a slim TV unit to avoid overpowering the layout — similar to how L‑shaped layouts free up more surface area in kitchen design.

save pin

7. Layered Lighting Around the Focal Wall

My Take: I always say, a fireplace and TV deserve good lighting. Layer ceiling downlights, picture lights, and warm floor lamps.

Pros: Creates mood flexibility; highlights textures like stone or wood cladding.

Cons: Bulb replacement can be more frequent; over‑illumination may create glare on the TV.

Tip: Opt for dimmer switches for ultimate control.

save pin

8. Built‑In Bench Seating with Storage

My Take: I love integrating storage under window benches facing the fireplace — perfect for books, throws, or board games.

Pros: Multi‑functional; adds charm and extra seats without bulky chairs.

Cons: Fixed seating may not suit those who like to rearrange furniture often.

Tip: Use cushions with removable, washable covers for easy upkeep.

save pin

9. Vertical Wood Storage as a Design Element

My Take: Stacking firewood vertically beside a fireplace can be both functional and sculptural.

Pros: Keeps fuel at hand (for wood‑burners), adds rustic charm; visually warms the space. According to Houzz’s 2023 report, natural elements like wood are still high on homeowners’ wishlists.

Cons: Only suitable if you have a wood‑burning fireplace; dust from logs needs regular cleaning.

Tip: Even if you don’t burn wood, use faux logs for the texture — similar to wood accents creating warmth in contemporary settings.

save pin

10. Neutral Palette with One Bold Accent

My Take: For small rooms, I stick to light neutrals for walls and furniture, then add one bold element like a navy armchair near the fireplace.

Pros: Keeps the room airy while giving personality; easy to update with accessories.

Cons: Risk of feeling bland if the accent isn’t strong enough.

Tip: Rotate accents seasonally — mustard in autumn, teal in summer.

save pin

Conclusion

From my experience, a small living room is never a limitation. In fact, small living room ideas with fireplace and TV often push us to make smarter, more creative choices. As the American Society of Interior Designers notes, multipurpose design is the future of compact living. Which of these 10 ideas do you want to try first?

FAQ

1. What’s the best layout for a small living room with fireplace and TV? Arrange seating to face both focal points without blocking walkways; wall mounting helps save space.
2. Can I put the TV above the fireplace? Yes, but maintain an ergonomic eye level and ensure heat from the fireplace won’t damage electronics.
3. How do I make a small living room look bigger? Use mirrors, light colors, and avoid overcrowding furniture. Source: Architectural Digest recommends layering lighting to expand perceived space.
4. What style works best? Minimalist, Scandinavian, and modern rustic styles adapt well to small rooms with focal points like fireplaces.
5. Is a corner fireplace good for small rooms? Yes, it can open up wall space for other functions, especially in irregular layouts.
6. How to hide TV cables? Use in‑wall conduits or cable covers painted to match the wall.
7. What flooring works well? Hardwood or laminate in light tones helps reflect light; add rugs to soften acoustics.
8. Can I combine storage with fireplace design? Absolutely; built‑ins around the fireplace can integrate TV, shelving, and even hidden compartments — similar to integrated living room solutions.