Armchairs in the Living Room: How Much Space an Armchair Really Needs
You are planning the furnishing of your living room and wondering whether there is still room for an armchair next to the sofa? Many people underestimate the space that an armchair actually requires. It is not just about the furniture dimensions themselves, but also about movement areas and seating comfort. This guide shows you which distances you should plan for and how to make optimal use of the available space.
The Base Area: Armchair Dimensions Plus Movement Zone
A classic upholstered armchair measures between 70 and 90 cm in width and approximately 80 to 100 cm in depth. In addition, there is the movement area: at least 60 cm should remain free in front of the armchair so that you can stand up and sit down comfortably. On the sides, a distance of 20 to 30 cm to the wall or the next piece of furniture is sufficient. Overall, you will need an area of approximately 140 cm in depth and 110 cm in width to place an armchair comfortably.
Distance to Other Seating
When you place Armchairs next to a sofa, pay attention to the correct distance between the seating furniture. For a pleasant conversation situation, there should be 80 to 120 cm distance between armchair and sofa. Too close feels cramped, too far makes communication difficult. For a seating group with several armchairs, the following applies: 50 to 70 cm distance between the individual armchairs ensures sufficient privacy and freedom of movement.
Consider Room Size and Proportions
In a living room under 15 square metres, you should plan for a maximum of one additional armchair next to the sofa. With 20 to 25 square metres, two armchairs can usefully complement the seating group. The ratio is important: a massive baroque armchair with wide armrests requires more visual space than a slender model with delicate legs. The selection of Sofas and armchairs should match the room size so that the proportions are right.
Keep Passageways Clear
Plan main passageways in the room with at least 80 cm width, preferably 100 cm. These pathways should not be blocked by armchairs. Secondary pathways, for example between armchair and window, may be narrower: 60 cm is sufficient here. Make sure that doors can be opened fully without hitting furniture. An armchair should be at least 10 cm away from the door swing area.
Functional Areas for Side Tables
An armchair becomes more comfortable if you can place a small side table next to it. For this, you need an additional 40 to 50 cm in width. The table should be at armrest height or slightly below, approximately 50 to 60 cm high. If you want to place a floor lamp next to the armchair, allow for a diameter of 30 to 40 cm for the lamp base.
Checklist for Armchair Planning
- Armchair width plus 40 cm on the sides: gives the required total width
- Armchair depth plus 60 cm in front: gives the required total depth
- 80 to 120 cm distance to the sofa for conversation groups
- At least 80 cm wide main passageways in the room
- Plan an additional 50 cm for a side table
Related categories: Dining Tables, Garden Furniture, Stoves and Decoration, Garden Decoration. The full range: Baroque Furniture.
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