• Choose furniture that fits the scale of the room.Tim Klein/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  An oversize sectional and a full wall entertainment center won't work well in a small living room, but there are plenty of other furniture ideas when space is limited. Choosing furniture that fits the scale of the room makes the best use of the space and prevents it from feeling crowded or cluttered.
  
  

Neutral Colors

• Color plays a role in how a piece feels. A neutral color scheme makes the overall room feel more open and airy while darker colors in the furniture can weigh down the room. Neutral doesn't have to be boring. An interesting furniture design or bright accent pillows dress up the neutral furniture.
  
  

Smaller Pieces

• The actual size of the furniture is one of the biggest influences on how it works in a living room. When dealing with a small living room, the furniture should follow the same smaller scale. Take measurements of the living room before furniture shopping. Don't be afraid to take your tape measure along with you to the furniture store so you can estimate how well any particular piece will fit into the living room.
  
  

Dual-Purpose Furniture

• Furniture that handles two different functions is ideal in a room with limited space. An ottoman with storage is one example. You can store toys, remotes, magazines or other items in the ottoman while also using it as seating. Two ottomans pushed together with trays on top serve as a coffee table when not used for seating. A window seat is a similar option when built with storage inside. A window seat takes advantage of the small space by a window that would otherwise go unused.
  
  

Built-ins

• Built-in shelving takes advantage of wall space without taking up a lot of valuable floor space. The shelving creates lots of storage for books, toys, games and other relevant activities for the living room. If you have a small nook in the living room that doesn't work well for a piece of furniture, build in a small bookshelf or desk for a small, custom workspace. Add lighting to the area to brighten it and make the overall room feel larger.