There is no getting around it–the position of a sofa in the living room defines the space. Up against the wall is usually the first option, but in some instances (creating symmetry, allowing for traffic patterns or maximizing functionality in the space) a sofa is best positioned in the middle of the room.
If your sofa is destined to live in the middle of the room, you may be struggling with what to do with the space behind it. While it’s not ’bad’ or ‘wrong’ to leave it bare, it’s a great opportunity for additional seating, storage and lighting.
Here are some ideas to maximize the real estate in back of your sofa:
A sofa or console table is a classic choice (for a good reason–it works), but here I love how it is flanked with additional chairs and topped with colorful accent lamps to create a more finished tableau.
I love how New York-based interior designer, Amanda Nisbet places a small scale stone side table with upholstered bench seating. It’s a perfect spot for a game of chess or cup of coffee.
In line with the mid-century style living room, San Francisco interior designer, Palmer Weiss places a buffet console allowing the homeowner additional storage. Brilliant use of space!
Need additional work space? Placing a desk behind a sofa may be a solution. Here a glass top desk is elegant, yet functional in this living room.
You know I love storage options and was instantly drawn to this living room with a bookcase placed behind a sofa. Not only does it house books, but it helps define the living room from the dining room. Great design trick for open floor plans!
What’s behind your sofa?
- Cristin
Great ideas for a situation many face. They’d fine this post a perfect start in evaluating their space within a space behind the sofa. Love all the solutions.
Hi Cristin – I have a mid-century buffet/dresser behind my floating sofa and it is the most favorite piece of furniture I own. I have a question, however. Is there a secret design trick to being able to use lamps when a sofa is floating? I see three of your photos have lamps and one even has a rug beneath it, and I do not see any outlets (or can’t imagine someone would cut the rug. Do you have any tips on how to pull this off in a real home? Thank you for always providing such great examples to show your ideas. – Kim
I like the buffet console from Palmer Weiss, maybe that’s the next plan in our house!
I love all of these options! Very helpful examples. ~ Holly