• The interior design of a living room affects the atmosphere projected.Modern tastefully decorated living room image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com
  
  Interior decorating, one of the joys of owning a home, can make or break a space. When arranging furniture in the living room, consider the primary use for the space and design around that concept. Also examine the available size of the space as well as the existing elements within the home. If designed correctly, the living room can become the heart of the household and the space in which family and friends congregate.
  
  

Entertainment

• Ideal for open and spacious areas, living rooms built for entertaining large parties commonly are centered around the television. A large sectional couch built in the shape of an "L" or "C" provides plenty of seating room. A coffee table positioned in front of the couch, along with end tables, provides enough space to set multiple drinks or meals. A television, positioned adjacent to the couch, makes for a good focal point of the room. Entertainment-based living rooms often do well with a dark color scheme so that furniture and carpet stains aren't an issue.
  
  

Relaxation

• Warm and cozy, a living room built for relaxation should provide seating room, entertainment and warmth. A couch and recliner positioned around a coffee table make for good places to curl up and read a book. Provide plenty of pillows, a few blankets and a lamp for reading. Don't use the television, if incorporated, as the focal point of the room. A fireplace instantly changes the feel and makes for an excellent focal point and place of congregation. Color schemes for relaxing living rooms are often rich and warm earth tones.
  
  

Multi-Spatial

• A multi-spatial area, created by dividing the living room with a couch, is ideal for larger areas. According to Remodeling Center, an entertainment area paired with a relation area is perfect for the multi-spatial living room. The entertainment area faces the television, with the back of the couch providing the "wall" for the relaxation area. Place a recliner and loveseat to match the couch in the relaxation area to tie the entire space together.