How to Arrange Furniture in Architectural Spaces? 5 Essential Tips

The arrangement of any furniture should be based on one's own habits, needs, and those of their family members. Different furniture arrangements can create different decorative effects, but the key is to arrange them in a way that makes oneself feel most comfortable. While we emphasize aesthetics, we also prioritize comfort. In the end, the layout of the home should prioritize comfort above all else.

In order to make life comfortable in a limited space, it is essential to understand five basic concepts.

1. Circulation

Circulation refers to the paths or routes that people follow when moving within an interior space in the context of interior design. To ensure comfort and convenience within a space, it is necessary to consider the walking routes of people and how to avoid obstacles.

Individuals who reside in a house for an extended period often establish fixed circulation patterns. For example, the route from the bedroom to the bathroom may pass through a hallway or through the living room before proceeding. Therefore, when designing a space, it is essential to consider all possible walking routes and ensure adequate space is preserved.

Not all circulation routes in space should prioritize convenience and speed; various factors need to be considered, such as the placement of fixed furniture, people's walking paths, and changes in interaction among individuals.

Generally, the minimum space required for a single person to walk is between 45cm and 60cm, while the minimum space required for two people walking together is between 110cm and 120cm.

When arranging furniture, it is important to allocate sufficient space, including:

** a.** Space for easy passage for individuals.

** b.** Space where two people can walk without colliding.

** c.** Distance to avoid contact with objects behind when chairs are pulled out.

** d.** Space for individuals to stand or sit comfortably and move naturally.

Therefore, before arranging furniture, it is advisable to first determine the positions of the furniture and then consider circulation routes to ensure appropriate sizing.

2. Line of Sight

Line of sight refers to the imaginary straight line between the eyes and the target object when viewing something.

For example, when sitting down and trying to look at a distant object but there's an obstruction in the middle, it can create a sense of discomfort. Conversely, when sitting down and there are no obstructions in the line of sight, providing an unobstructed view, it tends to feel comfortable. When arranging furniture, it's important to ensure adequate visibility space:

** a.** Keep furniture relatively low and uniform to allow for spacious lines of sight. (Note: Place tall furniture items towards the edges, such as large cabinets.)

** b.** Avoid directing the line of sight towards areas prone to clutter or dirt, as guiding the line of sight correctly can enhance the appearance of cleanliness and comfort in the space.

3. Space

Space refers to the measurement of the size and relative positions of all objects within an area.

For example, overcrowding a small space with too much furniture can create a sense of oppression due to the excessive fullness of the space. Similarly, leaving only a few pieces of furniture in a large space, while minimalistic in design, can evoke a feeling of emptiness.

Ideally, the ratio of space to furniture area should be 3:1, meaning for every 100 square meters of space, furniture should occupy approximately 33.3 square meters. When arranging furniture, it's important to:

** a.** Keep furniture consistent in style and design.

** b.** Opt for low-profile furniture whenever possible.

4. Uniformity

Uniformity refers to the harmonization of different colors, sizes, styles, and designs of furniture through clever arrangement.

In our daily lives, we often indulge in purchasing furniture we like without considering how they will look together. When these pieces are placed together, it may result in a sense of disharmony and lack of coordination, leading to an uncoordinated look.

When selecting furniture, it's advisable to choose pieces that match in style to create a more cohesive decorative feel in the space. If you've acquired furniture in different colors and styles, you can use appropriate fabrics to cover them, such as tablecloths or runners that match your decor style.

Ensuring that furniture heights are relatively uniform is also important, as a mix of tall and short pieces can create a sense of unevenness in the space.

5. Focal Point

The focal point refers to the object or area that captures a person's gaze and attention.

For instance, in a living room setting with sofas, a television, and a coffee table, the eyes may not naturally gravitate toward a specific object. However, in an American-style living room with a fireplace added, it becomes easier for our gaze to focus on it. Emphasizing visual centers is essential in decoration to create a focal point.

One crucial aspect to note is that when arranging furniture, it's vital to create a clear and distinct visual center. For example, if you intend to make the TV wall the focal point, avoid excessive decoration on the wall behind the sofa; keeping it simple is key.