Your living room should be a space where you can relax, entertain, and feel at ease, but if it constantly feels cramped and cluttered, it’s probably doing the opposite. Without realizing it, certain design choices and unnecessary items might be making your space feel smaller than it actually is. You don’t need a major renovation to fix it. By removing or replacing a few common culprits, you can instantly open up your living room, making it feel more spacious and inviting. From oversized furniture to overwhelming decor, here are 12 things to get rid of to create a more breathable, stylish, and functional space.

1. Oversized Furniture

Oversized furniture can make a room feel heavy and cramped, even if it’s comfortable. While a plush sectional or an oversized coffee table might seem cozy, it can overwhelm the space, making it feel smaller than it actually is. Instead, choose well proportioned pieces that fit the room’s scale without sacrificing comfort. Consider sleek, leggy furniture that creates an open, airy feel, or modular pieces that offer flexibility. Leaving enough breathing room between furniture allows for better flow, making your space feel more inviting and functional rather than overcrowded.

2. Excessive Decorative Items

Too many decorative pieces can quickly turn a space from cozy to cluttered, making it feel overwhelming rather than inviting. While personal touches are what make a home feel special, it’s all about balance. Instead of filling every shelf and tabletop, curate a selection of meaningful items like a favorite vase, a framed photo, or a unique travel souvenir. Rotate pieces seasonally to keep things fresh and prevent visual fatigue. This way, your space stays stylish and personal without feeling overcrowded, allowing each piece to stand out and truly be appreciated.

3. Small Area Rugs

Using a rug that’s too small can throw off the balance of a room, making it feel disjointed and even smaller than it actually is. A well sized rug should anchor the furniture, with at least the front legs of sofas and chairs resting on it to create a unified look. In larger spaces, consider a rug big enough for all furniture legs to sit comfortably on it, making the room feel more expansive and inviting. If you already have a smaller rug you love, try layering it over a larger neutral one to add depth and texture while still defining the space.

4. Dark, Heavy Curtains

Heavy, dark drapes can make a room feel closed off and dim, absorbing natural light instead of letting it shine through. Swap them out for light, airy fabrics like sheer linen or cotton to instantly open up your space. Not only do they brighten the room, but they also create a soft, breezy atmosphere that feels fresh and inviting. For added warmth and privacy, layer them with woven shades or light-filtering blinds. This simple switch makes a big difference in how your home looks and feels more spacious, vibrant, and full of natural energy.

5. Too Many Throw Pillows

Throw pillows are a great way to add comfort and personality to a space, but too many can overwhelm your seating area and make it feel cluttered. Instead of piling them on, opt for a few well chosen pieces that enhance your décor without sacrificing functionality. Mix textures, patterns, and sizes for a layered yet balanced look, and choose colors that complement your existing palette. The goal is to create a cozy, inviting space where style meets comfort without having to move a mountain of pillows just to sit down.

6. Outdated or Worn-Out Furniture

Holding onto old, worn-out furniture can make a space feel outdated and uninspired. Instead of letting unused pieces collect dust, consider donating, repurposing, or giving them a fresh update with paint or new upholstery. If a piece no longer fits your style or needs, swapping it out for modern, functional furniture can instantly refresh the room. Look for pieces that balance aesthetics with practicality like sleek storage ottomans, multifunctional coffee tables, or statement chairs that add both comfort and personality. A well-curated space feels intentional, stylish, and full of life.

7. Overfilled Shelving Units

Overstuffed bookshelves and cluttered display units can make a space feel chaotic rather than inviting. Instead of cramming every shelf with books and decor, embrace a more intentional approach. Curate your collection by displaying a mix of books, decorative objects, and personal treasures while leaving some open space for balance. Try stacking books horizontally and incorporating natural elements like small plants or ceramics to add warmth and texture. This “less is more” philosophy not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a more calming, breathable atmosphere in your home.

8. Mismatched Furniture Pieces

Mixing too many furniture styles, colors, and materials can make a space feel chaotic rather than curated. To create a more cohesive and inviting look, choose pieces that share a common design element whether it’s a similar color palette, material, or shape. This doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly, a mix of textures and styles can add character, but there should be a sense of balance. Try grounding the space with a neutral base and layering in complementary tones and finishes for a seamless, well-thought-out aesthetic that feels intentional rather than overwhelming.

9. Overcrowded Walls

When it comes to decorating, less is often more. Walls crowded with too many pictures, artworks, or decorative pieces can make a room feel cluttered and visually overwhelming. Instead, choose a few statement pieces that truly reflect your personality and style. Arrange them thoughtfully to create balance and let each piece shine. A large artwork above a sofa, a well-curated gallery wall, or a single striking mirror can add personality without making the space feel chaotic. By giving your décor room to breathe, you create a more open, harmonious, and inviting atmosphere.

10. Unnecessary Side Tables

While side tables are undeniably useful, having too many can make a space feel cramped and disorganized. Take a step back and assess whether each one truly serves a purpose. If a table is just collecting clutter or making it harder to move around, consider removing it or replacing it with a more space-efficient option, like a floating shelf or a multi-functional ottoman. Simplifying your layout not only frees up valuable floor space but also creates a more open, airy, and visually balanced room.

11. Excessive Personal Memorabilia

Displaying too many personal items like trophies, collectibles, or souvenirs can overwhelm a space and make it feel cluttered rather than curated. Instead of showcasing everything at once, choose a few meaningful pieces that truly reflect your personality and style. Rotate items seasonally or create a dedicated display area to keep things intentional and organized. Consider stylish storage solutions like decorative boxes or shelving with hidden compartments to keep sentimental items close without overcrowding your space. A thoughtful approach to decor ensures your home feels personal, yet calm and inviting.

12. Poor Furniture Arrangement

Furniture arrangement plays a huge role in how a room feels and functions. A poorly placed sofa or cluttered layout can make even a spacious room feel cramped and uninviting. To create a more open and welcoming environment, prioritize flow, ensure there’s enough space to move around comfortably, and arrange seating to encourage conversation and relaxation. Try floating furniture away from walls, using rugs to define zones, or opting for multifunctional pieces that maximize space. Sometimes, a simple rearrangement can completely transform a room, making it feel more balanced, airy, and intentional.

This article was created with the assistance of AI but thoroughly edited by a human being.