The Ultimate Checklist To Purchasing Livingroom Furniture

Creating the perfect living room involves more than just picking out furniture that looks good. It's about finding pieces that fit your space, cater to your needs, and enhance your comfort. At Austin’s Furniture Outlet, we'll walk you through everything you need to consider before purchasing living room furniture, from room measurements to specialized features like seat depth and power recline options.

1. Room Measurements: Before you start browsing furniture options, it's crucial to measure your living room accurately. Note down the dimensions of the entire room. Take into account any alcoves, recesses, or walkways that could affect furniture placement. Additionally, measure the doorways and hallways leading to the room to ensure that your chosen furniture pieces can be easily maneuvered into place.

2. Furniture Measurements: Once you have your room dimensions, it's time to consider the size of the furniture you want to purchase. Take note of the available space for each furniture piece, ensuring there's enough room for comfortable movement around it. Pay attention to the scale of the furniture relative to the size of the room; oversized pieces can overwhelm a small space, while too-small furniture can make a large room feel empty.

3. Windows and Fireplace Considerations: If your living room has windows or a fireplace, factor these into your furniture layout. Position seating to take advantage of natural light and scenic views while ensuring that it doesn't obstruct the windows or fireplace. Consider the height of the windows when selecting furniture to maintain an open and balanced feel in the room.

4. Seat Depth for Different Heights: One size does not fit all when it comes to seat depth. Taller individuals may prefer deeper seats for extra legroom and support, while shorter individuals may find shallower seats more comfortable and easier to sit and rise from. When testing out sofas and chairs, pay attention to the seat depth and opt for options that accommodate the diverse needs of your household.

5. Reclining Furniture Measurements: Reclining furniture requires a certain distance be maintained from the wall.  A zero wall recliner for instance usually needs to be placed 4” from the wall.  Distance varies but  in some cases you may need to place your furniture 13” from the wall for a full recline. It’s possible to lose a large amount of floor space but don’t worry, sales representatives at Austin’s Furniture Outlet will be happy to provide you with all the information you need.

6. Electrical Outlets for Power Recline Seating: If you're considering power recline seating options, be mindful of the location of electrical outlets in your living room. Place reclining chairs and sofas near outlets to ensure easy access for powering them. If outlets are limited, consider investing in furniture with built-in battery packs or extension cords to avoid unsightly wires trailing across the room.

Purchasing living room furniture is an investment in both style and functionality. By considering factors such as room measurements, furniture dimensions, window and fireplace placement, seat depth preferences, and electrical outlet accessibility, you can create a comfortable and visually appealing living space that meets the needs of everyone in your household. The experienced staff at Austin's Furniture Outlet will help you explore all the different options and envision how each piece will contribute to the overall look and feel of your living room. With careful planning and consideration, you can find the perfect furniture pieces that make your living room the heart of your home.