You’ve got the keys to your rental house and the moving truck will soon arrive, but where on earth will everything go? Arranging the furniture in your new rental home is exciting and, at times, overwhelming. Here are some furniture arranging tips to get you going.
Start with the basics
Consider each room in your house a canvas on which to paint your style and personality. You already have the palette at hand — all of your stuff! So what goes where?
First, decide what the focal point of the room is — a window, mirror, fireplace or television, for example. The biggest piece of furniture in that room should face the focal point. Once you’ve placed your sofa, bed, etc., it’s time for the auxiliary or supporting pieces, such as lamp tables by the sofa, nightstands next to the bed, and so on. Before you know it, your room is coming together!
Let your pieces shine
Like the actor who believes she has only one good side, your furniture may look better from some angles than others. Many times, the room itself will dictate what goes along its walls — corners take corner pieces; a curved wall is the only place for that curved buffet; and only a short piece fits under the window.
Lighting should also be a consideration. A room without much light benefits from light-colored furniture, just as the sunlight or recessed lighting in another room can show off furniture’s dark stains.
What is the room for?
Be sure the room’s overall function is supported by the furniture arrangement. Do you have enough space for people to watch television in the TV room? You’ll also want to be able to store music and movies around the entertainment center. If you have a large family or a lot of friends, be sure to have floor pillows or enough chairs to accommodate viewers for a favorite movie or the big game.
Likewise, don’t try to do too many things with a single room. A bedroom with a television, stereo and desk in it was okay in the dorm, but is far less soothing and restful than one that is merely for sleeping and relaxing.
Voila! There you have the basic plan for arranging furniture in your new nest. Now all you need is some friends to help with the heavy lifting.