Where To Not Put A Couch In A Room? (6 Spots)
A beautiful couch can definitely uplift any space but choosing the perfect area to highlight this beauty can be a challenge.
There’s a lot to take into account to ensure that the couch is positioned in an area that feels comfortable, convenient, and functional.
This is why knowing where a couch should not be placed helps avoid picking the wrong spot that could disrupt the flow of your space.
A couch should not be placed too close to a TV or fireplace, in front of windows, or in high-traffic areas such as in the middle of a room and near a doorway.
There are many reasons why these unexpected locations need to be avoided at all costs which we’ll go through in detail below.
Once you’re aware of these areas, anywhere else should be suitable to put a couch provided it’s applicable to the layout and arrangement of your space.
To better optimize, create a comfortable and functional home, these tips can save you so much time and effort.
Here are the places you need to avoid putting a couch:
Table of Contents
Places To Not Put A Couch
Facing The Windows
Avoid putting a couch facing the windows as this can feel quite uncomfortable on hot sunny days as the sun’s rays can heat up the couch and this in turn will make it difficult to sit down and relax.
This also goes with having a TV placed directly in front of a window as the outside light will interfere with your viewing experience.
However, if you’re someone who enjoys having a good view while sitting down with a book and cup of tea and wouldn’t be so bothered by the natural light, a couch facing the windows might be something you’ll like.
It’s best to take this into account and decide for yourself but generally, this layout is avoided for these reasons.
Beside or In Front of Small Windows
Placing a couch beside windows is another area that should be avoided.
For one, if the couch is positioned somewhat in front of the window, this can block natural light from streaming in and this will impact your space by darkening the room.
This is especially so for smaller windows and it also restricts easy access to the window. If you have blinds or curtains, you’ll have to maneuver or stretch to reach the curtains.
Since the couch is positioned so near to the windows, this leaves it exposed to heat or extreme cold. In winter, a cold draft can make it feel uncomfortable to lounge for long hours.
Similarly, natural light does have its many benefits but sometimes the harsh UV rays can also damage the furniture, lead to quick fading of the fabric over time, or discolor unprotected furniture.
There are window-covering protections available that could solve this problem but you’ll have to invest a little to get this fixed.
When arranging your furniture, be sure to take these factors into account to make sure this layout is worth it. Overall, it’s recommended to avoid putting a couch near the windows.
In the Middle of the Room
The next area where a couch should not be placed is in the middle of the room.
This is especially so in small or tight layouts that will obstruct the natural flow and layout of the space.
It’s easy to make the room feel cramped and uncomfortable or hard to move around if the couch is in the center.
You’ll also be restricted when creating a specific arrangement with other furniture pieces like an accent chair or table.
In a living room, it’s best to create an open, comfortable space especially if the room will be used for entertaining, conversation, and relaxation.
This is why placing the couch against a wall, near a wall, or a little away from the middle of the room will work better for a cohesive and inviting layout.
This will give you the freedom to experiment with adding other furniture pieces.
Pay close attention to your space, furniture, size, and layout to figure out the best way forward.
Also, keep in mind the flow of your space and the way it functions to design a harmonious space.
In Front of a Doorway
If there’s one rule you should follow, it’s this one.
Never place a couch in front of a doorway or too close to it as this will create an obstruction and disturb the flow of the space.
It will also make it incredibly hard to open and close the door and your furniture will be at risk especially if the door bangs against it.
An area such as a doorway or hallway is not recommended to place a couch because it’s considered to be a high-traffic area.
If you have a large furniture item like a couch, this will make it difficult to maneuver and enter or out with a couch in the way.
The room can also feel cramped and closed if the couch is placed near a door while giving the illusion of a smaller space.
This arrangement also does not lend much to the overall aesthetics of the space and it’s another reason why you should avoid putting a couch in this area.
Too Close To The TV
I think this goes without saying but having a couch placed too close to a TV can be annoying and uncomfortable.
This can also lead to eye strain that will interrupt your daily life.
The normal distance to place a couch is at least 8 feet from the TV.
This layout also tends to serve well in creating a nice and functional flow in the living space and gives room for everyone to enjoy watching or relaxing in the room without creating that cramped feeling.
Too Close to a Fireplace
Positioning a couch too close to a fireplace may seem like a comfortable and cozy option but this should be avoided at all costs.
Not only is this dangerous and a potential fire hazard but a couch that is too close to the fireplace can cause the fabric to discolor or become singed.
A couch is a big investment and damaging will easily make you feel frustrated and disappointed when you’re left with an unsightly finish.
It’s best to have a comfortable distance between the couch and the fireplace for a better style, ambiance, and atmosphere.
It’s suggested to place the furniture at least 3 feet away from the fireplace.
The couch should be placed in a safe, comfortable, and practical position for the best use.
It’s best to be mindful and pay extra attention to ensure your home stays safe and comfortable.
Conclusion
All in all, it’s highly recommended to avoid putting a couch in areas like in the front of a doorway, too close to a TV or fireplace, in front of a window, or facing a window and in the middle of the room.
These are generally the areas where it’s best to avoid having a couch as it can have a great negative impact on the overall layout, function, comfort, and style of your space.
As long as you consider the flow of your room with the high-traffic areas in mind, you’re good to go.
Avoiding these areas in the room will ensure you achieve maximum comfort, style, and enjoyment with the assurance of having an inviting and welcoming seating area.
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