18 Stylish Empty Corner Ideas for Your Living Room

An empty corner in your living room might seem like an overlooked space, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of letting it go to waste, why not turn it into a stylish and functional area that complements your living room’s overall design? Whether it’s for extra seating, a place for your favorite plants, or a mini workspace, there are countless ways to make that empty corner a focal point.

In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways to style those empty corners of your living room, making them not only practical but also visually appealing. Each idea is designed to enhance your home’s interior, helping you transform your living room into a space where comfort meets creativity.

1. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

One of the best ways to use an empty corner is to turn it into a cozy reading nook. Place a comfy armchair or a small sofa in the corner, accompanied by a soft blanket and some throw pillows. Add a side table for your favorite books, a warm cup of tea, and a good lamp for reading. By adding a touch of your personal style, you create a welcoming space where you can unwind with a good book.

Tip: To make it even cozier, add a small rug and some greenery. A few indoor plants like succulents or ivy can make the space feel more inviting.

2. Incorporate Tall Indoor Plants

A tall plant, such as a fiddle leaf fig or a rubber plant, can quickly transform an empty corner into a vibrant, organic space. Plants add life, texture, and color to your living room, and they also bring nature inside. Whether you opt for a statement plant or a grouping of smaller plants, the greenery will make your room feel fresh and lively.

Tip: If you have a dark corner, consider choosing a low-maintenance plant like a snake plant or a ZZ plant. These thrive in low light and are easy to care for.

3. Install a Corner Shelf

A floating corner shelf is a fantastic way to take advantage of vertical space. It can be used to display decorative pieces, books, or small plants. Not only does it add style, but it also helps keep the room organized. You can get creative with the items you display, perhaps family photos, candles, or a vase with fresh flowers.

Tip: If you want a more modern look, choose a sleek, minimalist shelf, or if you prefer a vintage feel, opt for a wooden shelf with a rustic finish.

4. Create a Functional Workspace

In today’s world, many people work from home. If you’re one of them, consider transforming that empty corner into a small but efficient workspace. Add a small desk, a comfortable chair, and a few essentials like a laptop and a lamp. This way, you can make use of the space for work while maintaining a tidy and organized living room.

Tip: Look for compact, multi-functional furniture that blends into your living room’s design without standing out too much.

5. Add a Statement Chair

Sometimes, a single piece of furniture is all you need to fill an empty corner with style. A statement chair in a bold color or unique design can turn a dull corner into a lively spot in the room. Choose a chair that reflects your personality, whether it’s a retro chair, a modern accent chair, or a luxurious velvet armchair. Pair it with a small side table for added functionality.

Tip: Opt for a chair that contrasts with the rest of your furniture to create a bold statement. A brightly colored chair can add a pop of color to a neutral toned room.

6. Use Corner Lighting

Proper lighting can completely change the vibe of a room, and an empty corner is the perfect place to add a lighting fixture. You could use a tall floor lamp to add height and illuminate the space or even install wall sconces. Lighting in the corner will help highlight the features of your living room and create a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Tip: Choose lighting that matches the mood you want to create. A soft, warm light can make the room feel cozy, while a bright, white light can keep the space feeling fresh and open.

7. Set Up a Bar Cart

A bar cart doesn’t just have to be about alcohol; it’s an excellent way to add both function and style to an empty corner. Set up a bar cart with your favorite spirits, glassware, and accessories like cocktail shakers or decorative trays. Whether it’s for casual gatherings or special occasions, a well-organized bar cart adds an elegant touch to your living room.

Tip: Add a few decorative items such as candles, flowers, or a vintage tray to make your bar cart more eye-catching.

8. Create a Gallery Wall

A gallery wall is a great way to make an empty corner feel more personal and artistic. Choose a collection of framed art, family photos, or even a series of your favorite prints and arrange them in a visually pleasing layout. The gallery can become the focal point of your room, expressing your tastes and interests.

Tip: Mix different frame styles and sizes for a more dynamic and eclectic look. Make sure the artwork complements the overall color scheme of the room.

9. Place a Small Sofa or Loveseat

If you have the space, consider placing a small sofa or loveseat in the corner. A comfy piece of furniture will create a cozy seating area that is perfect for intimate conversations or a quiet place to relax. Pair it with a small coffee table or side table to add practicality to the corner.

Tip: A sectional sofa can also work well if you want to add more seating without overcrowding the room. Make sure to choose a color and style that aligns with the rest of the room’s decor.

10. Display Decorative Sculptures

If you love art, an empty corner is the perfect spot to showcase your favorite sculptures or art pieces. A decorative sculpture, whether modern or traditional, can add a touch of sophistication and uniqueness to your living room. This allows you to personalize the space while making it more interesting.

Tip: Place the sculpture on a pedestal or a sleek console table to give it extra prominence.

11. Create a Pet Corner

For pet owners, setting up a small pet corner in the living room can help keep your furry friends happy and comfortable. A cozy pet bed, a scratching post, or even a small cat tree can fill the empty corner and create a space for your pet to relax. Make sure to choose pet friendly furniture that complements the overall decor.

Tip: Add a cute basket or storage bin for your pet’s toys and treats to keep the area tidy.

12. Incorporate a Mirror

Mirrors are a great tool for opening up a room and creating the illusion of more space. Place a large mirror in the corner, and it will reflect light, making your living room feel brighter and bigger. It also adds a touch of elegance to the room, especially when paired with stylish frames.

Tip: Choose a mirror with a decorative frame to make it stand out. A round mirror can soften the angles of the room, while a rectangular mirror adds a sleek, modern touch.

13. Place a Console Table

A console table is a simple and functional piece of furniture that can help fill an empty corner. It can be used to display decorative items like candles, vases, or books, or even hold keys, mail, or other everyday items. It’s a great way to keep things organized while also adding visual interest.

Tip: Consider a console table with drawers or shelves for extra storage. A sleek, minimalist console works well in modern spaces, while a more intricate design suits traditional interiors.

15. Install a Corner Fireplace

If you want to add warmth and coziness to your living room, consider installing a corner fireplace. A corner fireplace not only adds a functional element but also serves as a stunning design feature. Whether it’s an electric or a traditional wood-burning fireplace, it will make the room feel more inviting and comfortable.

Tip: Make sure the fireplace design complements your living room’s overall aesthetic. A minimalist fireplace fits well in modern homes, while a rustic stone fireplace adds charm to a more traditional setting.

16. Add a Vintage Accent

If you love vintage items, consider placing a unique vintage piece in your empty corner. A retro armchair, an antique console table, or even an old-fashioned chest can add character and warmth to the room. Vintage accents not only bring personality to the space but also serve as conversation starters.

Tip: Mix vintage items with more modern pieces to create an eclectic and balanced look. Keep the color scheme in mind to ensure everything complements each other.

17. Install Corner Cabinets

Maximizing your storage space is crucial, especially if you have a smaller living room. Corner cabinets are a great solution for storing books, electronics, or decorative items without taking up too much space. They can be sleek and modern or more traditional, depending on your style.

Tip: Look for cabinets with glass doors to display decorative items or use them as hidden storage for everyday items.

18. Place a Decorative Rug

A rug can be the finishing touch that brings everything together. A patterned rug can be used to anchor furniture and create a cozy atmosphere in the corner. Choose a rug that complements your room’s colors and design, whether it’s a bold, colorful pattern or a more neutral, minimalist style. A well placed rug can also define the space, making the corner feel more purposeful and integrated into the rest of the room.

Tip: Choose a rug that suits the scale of the corner. For a more intimate space, a smaller rug will suffice, while a larger rug can help tie together a bigger corner seating area or workspace.

FAQs

1. How do I make a corner look cozy in a living room?
To make a corner cozy, add soft furnishings like throw pillows, a comfortable chair, a small rug, and warm lighting. Incorporating plants or personal items can also make the space feel inviting.

2. What are some creative ways to fill an empty corner without furniture?
You can fill an empty corner with art, plants, mirrors, or lighting. A floating shelf with decorative pieces or a statement floor lamp can also be great options.

3. How do I style a corner with low light?
In low-light corners, opt for plants that thrive in shade, such as snake plants or ferns. Pair them with soft lighting, like a floor lamp or wall sconce, to brighten the area subtly.

4. Can I use a corner for both function and style?
Absolutely! A corner can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. For instance, you can create a workspace with a desk and chair, or set up a small bar cart for entertaining while incorporating stylish decor.

5. How can I add more storage to a corner without it looking cluttered?
Use corner cabinets or shelves to store items. Opt for sleek designs or cabinets with doors to keep the space tidy. Adding a decorative box or basket can also help organize clutter while enhancing the decor.

Conclusion

Transforming an empty corner in your living room into a stylish and functional space is easier than you might think. With just a little creativity, you can turn that overlooked spot into a cozy nook, a mini workspace, or a striking decorative feature. Whether you choose to fill the corner with plants, furniture, or art, these 18 ideas will inspire you to make the most of your living room’s potential. Remember, the key is to blend functionality with style, making the corner feel like an integral part of the room’s design.