15 Genius Ways to Transform Empty Living Room Corners: Design Ideas That Work
That empty corner in your living room doesn’t have to stay a wasted space anymore. Whether you’re dealing with an awkward nook or a blank canvas waiting to be filled, there’s so much potential hiding in those overlooked spots of your home.
You’ll be amazed at how a once-forgotten corner can become your room’s starring feature with just a bit of creativity. From cozy reading nooks to stunning plant displays, the possibilities are endless. We’ve rounded up 15 genius ideas that’ll help you turn that bare space into something special – and trust us, these aren’t your typical design suggestions. Ready to give your living room’s forgotten corner the makeover it deserves?
Creating A Mini Reading Nook
Transform your empty corner into a cozy retreat perfect for getting lost in your favorite books. Here’s how to create the ultimate reading sanctuary:
Selecting The Perfect Reading Chair
Choose a chair that’s both comfortable and space-efficient for your corner spot. An oversized armchair or a plush accent chair with high arms works great for curling up with a book. Look for chairs with built-in neck support and deep seating to ensure hours of comfortable reading. Add a small ottoman or footstool to put your feet up and create that perfect reading position. The chair’s fabric should be durable and easy to clean – think performance velvet microfiber or stain-resistant materials in colors that complement your living room’s palette.
Installing Ambient Lighting
Set up proper lighting to prevent eye strain and create the perfect reading atmosphere. A floor lamp with an adjustable arm lets you direct light exactly where you need it. Consider LED options with multiple brightness settings or smart bulbs you can control from your phone. Install a small wall sconce to save floor space while providing focused illumination. Make sure to position the light source slightly behind your shoulder for optimal reading conditions without casting shadows on your pages.
Adding Floating Shelves
Mount floating shelves above or beside your reading chair to maximize vertical storage space. Install 2-3 shelves at different heights to create visual interest and store your current reads within arm’s reach. Keep the design minimal with clean lines to avoid overwhelming the corner space. Display your favorite hardcovers spine-out to add pops of color or organize paperbacks by size for a neat appearance. Add small decorative items like succulents or bookends to personalize your mini library while maintaining functionality.
Setting Up A Vertical Garden Wall
Transform your empty corner into a lush oasis with a vertical garden wall that adds life and natural beauty to your living space.
Choosing Indoor-Friendly Plants
Start with low-maintenance plants that thrive indoors like pothos devils ivy snake plants or peace lilies. Mix different leaf sizes textures and shades of green to create visual interest. For best results choose plants that need similar light and water conditions. Consider air-purifying varieties like spider plants or ZZ plants to improve your indoor air quality. Stick to 4-5 different plant types to keep maintenance manageable and ensure a cohesive look.
Installing Plant Holders
Mount adjustable wall planters or floating plant holders in a grid or scattered pattern. You’ll need sturdy wall anchors to support the weight of plants soil and water. Space the holders 8-12 inches apart to give plants room to grow. Consider using modular systems like hex shelves or magnetic planters that let you rearrange your display. Add grow lights if your corner doesn’t get enough natural sunlight.
Maintaining Your Green Corner
Water your plants according to their individual needs using a spray bottle or small watering can. Check soil moisture weekly and trim yellowing leaves to keep your display looking fresh. Install a small humidifier nearby if your home’s air is dry. Rotate plants every few weeks to ensure even growth and dust leaves monthly with a damp cloth. Remember to fertilize every 4-6 weeks during growing season for optimal plant health.
Designing A Cozy Coffee Station
Transform your empty living room corner into a charming coffee station that’ll make every morning feel like a visit to your favorite café.
Essential Coffee Bar Equipment
Start with a compact coffee maker that fits your space – whether it’s a sleek espresso machine or a simple pour-over setup. Add a reliable electric kettle for precise water temperature control and a quality coffee grinder to preserve bean freshness. Include a small countertop or narrow console table as your coffee bar foundation. For serious coffee enthusiasts consider adding a milk frother for those café-style lattes. Keep your setup practical with a few essential mugs stacked neatly nearby and a small waste bin for used grounds and filters.
Storage Solutions For Supplies
Install floating shelves above your coffee station to store beans mixes and flavored syrups. Add clear glass containers or mason jars to keep coffee beans fresh and create an attractive display. Use drawer organizers or small baskets to separate filters tea bags and stirring spoons. Consider a rotating carousel for frequently used items like sweeteners and creamers. Mount a magnetic strip under shelves to hang measuring spoons and keep them within easy reach.
Decorative Elements
Incorporate a small vintage-style coffee sign or framed coffee-themed artwork to enhance the café atmosphere. Display your favorite mugs on open shelving to add personality and color. Add a small potted plant or fresh flowers to bring life to your coffee corner. Use a decorative tray to organize items and catch spills. Include warm LED strip lighting under shelves for ambiance and functionality during early morning coffee runs. Choose accessories in coordinating metals like copper or brass to create a cohesive look.
Installing A Modern Corner Fireplace
Transform your empty corner into a stunning focal point by adding a sleek, modern fireplace that brings both warmth and style to your living room.
Electric Vs. Traditional Options
Electric fireplaces offer hassle-free installation with no venting required. You’ll enjoy instant heat, customizable flame effects and easy temperature control at the push of a button. They’re perfect for apartments or homes without existing chimneys. Traditional gas or wood-burning corner fireplaces deliver authentic flames and crackling sounds but need proper ventilation and regular maintenance. While they’re more expensive to install, they can increase your home’s value and provide reliable heat during power outages. Electric units typically cost $200-800 while traditional options range from $2,000-5,000 for installation.
Safety Considerations
Keep furniture and decorative items at least 3 feet away from your fireplace to prevent fire hazards. Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors nearby if you choose a gas or wood-burning unit. For electric fireplaces ensure your outlet can handle the power requirements and avoid overloading circuits. Mount your fireplace on a level surface and follow manufacturer guidelines for clearance requirements. If you have young children or pets add a safety screen or barrier. Schedule annual maintenance checks to keep traditional fireplaces operating safely.
Styling The Surrounding Space
Create a cozy seating arrangement by placing a comfortable armchair or loveseat at an angle near your fireplace. Add texture with a plush area rug and soft throw pillows. Install floating shelves above or beside the fireplace to display artwork photos or decorative objects. Use LED strip lighting behind the fireplace for ambient lighting effects. Keep the design cohesive by matching materials and colors to your existing décor. A mirror mounted above the fireplace can make your corner appear larger while reflecting warmth throughout the room.
Building A Custom Corner Desk
Transform your empty corner into a functional workspace by creating a custom desk that perfectly fits your space and needs.
Measuring And Planning
Start by measuring your corner space carefully including both wall lengths and the height from floor to desired desk level. Sketch your design on paper with exact dimensions accounting for any baseboards or wall outlets. Consider your typical workflow to determine the ideal desk depth typically 24-30 inches for comfortable laptop or monitor placement. Don’t forget to plan for leg room underneath aim for at least 24 inches of clearance width and 30 inches of height from floor to desk bottom.
Materials And Tools
You’ll need these essential items:
- 3/4-inch plywood or solid wood for the desktop
- L-brackets or corner braces for support
- Power drill with drill bits
- Level and measuring tape
- Wood screws and wall anchors
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood stain or paint
- Basic hand tools (screwdriver hammer)
A circular saw or table saw will help with precise cuts but you can also get your lumber yard to cut pieces to size.
Storage Integration
Maximize your desk’s functionality by incorporating smart storage solutions. Install floating shelves above the desk for books and supplies. Add wire management grommets to keep cables tidy. Consider mounting a pegboard on one wall for hanging frequently used items. Build or buy small drawer units that fit underneath the desktop. Include a keyboard tray to save desktop space and maintain proper ergonomics. Use corner shelving units to use the full depth of your corner space.
Creating An Art Gallery Corner
Transform your empty corner into a stunning art display that adds personality and visual interest to your living room. Here’s how to curate your perfect corner gallery.
Selecting And Arranging Artwork
Start with a mix of 3-5 pieces that share a common theme color or style. Choose artwork in different sizes to create visual hierarchy – try one large anchor piece paired with smaller complementary works. For a cohesive look mix photographs paintings and prints while maintaining consistent framing styles. Create balance by arranging pieces in a triangular pattern starting from the corner outward. Leave 2-3 inches between frames for breathing room and consider incorporating sculptural pieces on a floating shelf to add dimension.
Proper Lighting Installation
Install adjustable track lighting 12-18 inches from the wall to properly illuminate your art collection. Position LED picture lights directly above larger pieces to create dramatic spotlighting effects. Use warm white bulbs (2700-3000K) to enhance artwork colors without causing glare or fading. Add a dimmer switch to adjust lighting levels throughout the day. Mount slim LED strip lights behind frames for a floating effect that adds depth to your display.
Frame Selection Tips
Pick frames that complement your artwork without overpowering it. For contemporary spaces opt for thin black or white metal frames that create clean lines. Choose natural wood frames in similar tones for a warm casual feel. Keep frame widths consistent throughout your display – stick to 1-2 frame styles maximum. For oddly shaped pieces try floating frames that make artwork appear suspended. Always use acid-free mats to protect your pieces and create visual breathing space between art and frame.
Incorporating A Corner Bar Cart
Transform your empty living room corner into a chic entertainment spot with a stylish bar cart setup that’s both functional and eye-catching.
Stocking Essential Items
Start with a well-curated selection of bar essentials to create a functional home bar. Include 4-5 basic spirits (vodka gin whiskey rum tequila) and mixers like tonic soda bitters. Add essential tools such as a shaker jigger strainer ice bucket and mixing spoon. Don’t forget glassware basics: highball glasses lowball tumblers wine glasses and martini glasses. Stock citrus fruits lemons limes oranges for fresh garnishes and mixers. Remember a small cutting board and paring knife for drink prep.
Styling Your Bar Display
Arrange items by height with taller bottles at the back and shorter ones in front for visual appeal. Group similar items together: spirits on one level mixers on another tools in a stylish container. Add metallic accents through copper Moscow mule cups or brass cocktail picks. Include a small potted plant or fresh flowers for a pop of color. Display 2-3 vintage cocktail books or recipe cards for both decoration and function. Use a matching set of decanters to elevate everyday spirits.
Storage Solutions
Maximize your bar cart space with smart storage solutions that keep everything organized. Install small hooks on the cart’s side to hang cocktail tools or bar towels. Use clear acrylic risers to create levels and showcase bottles effectively. Add small bins or baskets to corral citrus fruits stirrers and cocktail napkins. Place frequently used items on the top shelf with backup supplies stored neatly below. Include a small drawer organizer for bottle openers cork screws and other small tools. Consider adding a fold-down shelf for extra prep space when mixing drinks.
Installing A Corner Entertainment Center
Transform your empty corner into a stylish media hub that maximizes space while keeping your entertainment essentials organized and accessible.
Media Equipment Organization
Start by selecting a corner TV stand that fits your space perfectly – measure twice to get it right! Position your TV at eye level when seated and arrange other electronics like gaming consoles soundbars or streaming devices on dedicated shelves below. Create zones within the unit: gaming gear on one level media players on another and storage bins for movies games or remotes on the bottom shelves. Add adjustable shelving to accommodate different-sized equipment and leave room for future upgrades. Consider ventilation space around electronics to prevent overheating and ensure easy access to ports and controls.
Cable Management Tips
Tame that cable chaos with simple but effective solutions. Start by using cord covers that match your wall color to conceal wires running from the TV to the outlet. Install a power strip inside the entertainment center to create a central connection point. Use velcro cable ties to bundle cords together and label each one for easy identification. Drill small holes in the back of your entertainment center for cable routing but keep them hidden behind equipment. Add cord management clips along the back of shelves to keep cables neat and prevent them from dangling.
Decorative Elements
Balance functionality with style by adding personal touches to your entertainment center. Place small potted plants or succulents on empty shelves to bring life to the space. Display a few favorite books artsy bookends or framed photos between electronics. Use decorative boxes or baskets to hide remotes and gaming accessories while adding texture. Install LED strip lighting behind the TV or along shelves for ambient lighting and drama. Keep decor minimal and strategic – you don’t want to crowd your electronics or block ventilation zones.
Setting Up A Music Corner
Transform your empty corner into a dedicated music space that combines style with functionality while celebrating your love for music.
Instrument Display Ideas
Create a stunning focal point by mounting your guitar on decorative wall hooks that double as art pieces. For smaller instruments like ukuleles or violins, install floating shelves at varying heights to create an eye-catching arrangement. Consider a vintage-style music stand as both a practical holder and decorative element. Add LED strip lighting behind the instruments to create a dramatic spotlight effect that highlights their beautiful shapes. If you’ve got brass instruments, arrange them on industrial-style pipe shelving for an edgy look that complements their metallic finish.
Sound Management
Install acoustic foam panels in a chevron pattern to minimize sound reflection while adding visual interest. Choose decorative fabric-covered panels in colors that match your room’s palette for a more stylish approach to soundproofing. Add thick curtains on nearby windows to help absorb excess sound. Place a plush area rug under your music space to reduce sound travel through the floor. Consider installing bass traps in the corner joints where walls meet to improve overall acoustics without compromising style.
Storage Solutions
Opt for a corner cabinet with adjustable shelving to store sheet music music books and smaller accessories. Install a pegboard wall system to hang headphones cables and portable instruments while keeping them easily accessible. Use clear acrylic organizers for picks tuners and other small items so you can spot them quickly. Add rolling storage ottomans that provide both seating and space for larger equipment. Consider vertical file holders mounted on the wall to keep sheet music organized and wrinkle-free while maximizing floor space.
Creating A Corner Meditation Space
Transform your empty corner into a peaceful sanctuary where you can practice mindfulness and find inner calm.
Comfortable Seating Options
Start with a supportive meditation cushion (zafu) or floor pillow as your primary seating option. Choose memory foam or buckwheat-filled cushions that’ll keep you comfortable during longer meditation sessions. For extra comfort layer your seating with a meditation mat (zabuton) underneath. If floor sitting isn’t your style opt for a low meditation bench or a compact ergonomic chair that fits snugly in the corner. Add a small folding cushion for knee support to make your practice more comfortable.
Calming Decor Elements
Install soft LED strip lighting or a Himalayan salt lamp to create gentle ambient lighting. Add 2-3 small potted plants like peace lilies or snake plants for natural serenity. Mount a small bamboo water fountain on a corner shelf to introduce soothing water sounds. Display meaningful items like meditation beads crystals or a small Buddha statue on a floating shelf. Keep decor minimal with a natural color palette of whites beiges and soft greens to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Privacy Solutions
Create a sense of enclosure with a folding room divider that tucks neatly into the corner when not in use. Hang light fabric panels from ceiling-mounted tracks for an adjustable privacy screen. Install a bamboo roll-up blind or macramé wall hanging to section off your meditation space. Consider adding sound-absorbing curtains or acoustic panels to minimize noise distractions. Use tall potted bamboo plants as natural privacy screens that double as air purifiers.
Building A Corner Storage Unit
Transform your empty corner into a functional storage solution that doubles as a stylish focal point. Here’s how to create a custom corner unit that maximizes space while adding character to your room.
Custom Shelving Ideas
Start with floating corner shelves in a zigzag pattern for a modern look that maximizes vertical space. L-shaped shelves work perfectly in corners and can hold more items than traditional straight shelves. Try installing built-in corner cabinets with adjustable shelving heights to accommodate items of different sizes. Mix open and closed storage by combining glass-front cabinets with solid doors for versatility. For a unique touch add diagonal shelving that creates an interesting visual pattern while offering practical storage space.
Organizing Systems
Use clear storage containers to keep small items sorted and visible at a glance. Install pull-out drawers in lower cabinets to make accessing items in deep corners easier. Add cabinet organizers like lazy Susans in corner units to maximize space efficiency. Label everything clearly using a consistent system – try categorizing by color function or frequency of use. Consider adding drawer dividers baskets or bins to keep items separated and prevent cluttered shelves.
Decorative Touches
Add LED strip lighting under shelves to highlight displayed items and create ambiance. Place decorative boxes baskets or vintage suitcases on upper shelves for both storage and style. Mix in some plants small art pieces or collectibles between stored items to personalize the space. Use matching storage containers in coordinating colors to create a cohesive look. Install metallic hardware or unique drawer pulls to add personality to cabinet doors and drawers. Paint the back wall of open shelving in an accent color to make items pop against the background.
Designing A Children’s Play Area
Transform your empty corner into an engaging play area that’ll keep your kids entertained while maintaining your living room’s style. Here’s how to create a kid-friendly space that works for everyone.
Safe Storage Solutions
Install rounded-corner cube organizers to store toys safely and efficiently. Choose sturdy fabric bins in colors that match your living room’s decor for a cohesive look. Add soft-close drawers at kid height so little fingers won’t get pinched. Consider a cushioned storage bench that doubles as seating and toy storage. Label containers with pictures for easy cleanup and organization. Install safety straps on any wall-mounted storage to prevent tipping. Pick storage solutions with child-safe materials and non-toxic finishes.
Educational Elements
Mount a magnetic whiteboard at kid height for drawing and learning activities. Add a compact bookshelf filled with age-appropriate books within easy reach. Include educational wall decals like alphabet letters numbers or world maps. Set up a small art station with washable markers crayons and paper in clear containers. Display educational posters in attractive frames that complement your decor. Include hands-on learning tools like puzzles building blocks and sorting games stored in clear bins.
Creative Play Spaces
Layer a soft washable rug to create a cozy play surface. Install a compact tent or teepee that you can easily fold away when needed. Add wall-mounted activity boards with different textures and simple games. Include a small table and chairs sized for kids but styled to match your decor. Hang string lights inside the play area for a magical touch. Use removable wall decals to define the space without permanent changes. Consider a rollable storage cart that can hide toys quickly when guests arrive.
Adding A Corner Water Feature
Transform your empty corner into a serene oasis with a stylish indoor water feature that adds both visual appeal and calming ambient sounds to your living space.
Types Of Indoor Fountains
Wall-mounted fountains create a stunning vertical display with water cascading down textured panels or natural stone surfaces. Tabletop fountains offer compact elegance perfect for corner tables or pedestals while taking up minimal floor space. Floor fountains make bold statements with their freestanding designs ranging from modern geometric shapes to naturalistic rock formations. Corner-specific fountains feature triangular bases or quarter-circle designs that fit snugly into 90-degree angles. You’ll also find tiered fountains that create mesmerizing water patterns as liquid flows from one level to the next. LED-equipped options add drama with color-changing effects or subtle illumination.
Installation Requirements
You’ll need a nearby electrical outlet for the pump or consider hiring an electrician to install one. Place a waterproof mat underneath to protect your flooring from splashes and spills. Most fountains require level surfaces so use shims if needed for proper alignment. Check weight restrictions especially for wall-mounted units ensuring proper wall anchors rated for the load. Install a GFCI outlet to prevent electrical hazards around water. Consider sound dampening materials beneath floor units to minimize vibration noise. Leave enough clearance around the fountain for maintenance access and air circulation.
Maintenance Tips
Clean your fountain weekly using a soft brush to remove mineral deposits and prevent algae growth. Empty and refresh the water every 2-3 weeks depending on evaporation rates. Add fountain cleaning solution monthly to prevent buildup and keep water crystal clear. Check the pump filter regularly and clean it when water flow decreases. Top off water levels daily to prevent pump damage from running dry. Use distilled water to minimize mineral deposits especially in hard water areas. Inspect seals and connections quarterly for leaks. During winter months run the fountain continuously to prevent freezing if your home temperature drops significantly.
Creating A Game Corner
Transform your empty corner into an inviting game space where family and friends can gather for endless entertainment.
Board Game Storage
Install floating corner shelves to display your favorite board games vertically, making them both decorative and accessible. Opt for clear acrylic organizers to store smaller games and card decks while keeping them visible. Add pull-out drawers beneath your game table for storing dice, tokens and gaming accessories. Consider a corner cabinet with adjustable shelving to accommodate games of different sizes while maintaining a clean look. Label your storage containers clearly to make game selection quick and easy during game nights.
Seating Arrangements
Choose versatile seating options that can accommodate different group sizes and gaming styles. Start with a corner bench that provides built-in storage underneath for extra games or cushions. Add lightweight poufs or ottomans that can be easily moved around when needed. Include 2-3 compact folding chairs that you can store nearby for larger gatherings. Pick chairs with comfortable padding and proper back support for those longer gaming sessions.
Lighting Solutions
Install adjustable track lighting to illuminate your gaming area without creating glare on cards or game boards. Add a dimmable floor lamp with a swing arm to provide focused light exactly where you need it. Consider LED strip lights under shelving units to showcase your game collection and create ambiance. Mount wall sconces at eye level to eliminate shadows while keeping table surfaces clear for gameplay. Choose warm-toned bulbs (2700-3000K) to create an inviting atmosphere that won’t strain players’ eyes during extended gaming sessions.
Making A Seasonal Display Corner
Transform your empty corner into a dynamic showcase that changes with the seasons to keep your living room fresh and exciting year-round.
Rotating Decor Ideas
Start with a sturdy corner shelf or tiered display stand as your base. Switch up your decor with natural elements like pinecones and evergreen branches for winter or seashells and driftwood for summer. Create themed vignettes using holiday-specific items such as mini pumpkins for fall or pastel eggs for spring. Add seasonal flowers in coordinating vases – think sunflowers in autumn or tulips in spring. Incorporate themed throw pillows textiles and artwork that match each season’s color palette. Display seasonal photographs in matching frames to create a cohesive look that tells your family’s story throughout the year.
Storage Solutions
Install adjustable floating shelves to accommodate decorations of varying heights. Use clear plastic bins with labels for off-season items and store them in nearby closets or under furniture. Consider a corner cabinet with built-in drawers to keep smaller seasonal items dust-free and organized. Get stackable boxes in coordinating colors to store delicate decor pieces. Add pull-out organizers to maximize corner space and keep everything within easy reach. Use vacuum storage bags for fabric items like seasonal throws and pillow covers to save space when not in use.
Lighting Options
Layer your lighting to highlight seasonal displays effectively. Mount adjustable track lights above to spotlight specific decorative pieces. Add battery-operated LED strip lights under shelves for a subtle glow. Install a corner floor lamp with adjustable brightness to create ambiance. Use flameless candles in hurricane glasses for safe seasonal accent lighting. Consider color-changing LED bulbs to match your seasonal theme. Add string lights during festive seasons and tuck the cords neatly behind shelving units. Place small accent lamps on different shelf levels to create depth and visual interest.
Conclusion: Maximizing Corner Spaces
Transform your empty living room corners into functional spaces by carefully measuring the area selecting furniture that fits perfectly and layering lighting for ambiance. Consider your lifestyle needs when choosing from these corner solutions to create a space that’s both practical and visually appealing. Remember storage options traffic flow and your room’s overall style when implementing any of these ideas.
