Skip to main content

Why multi-functional furniture is the best living room purchase you’ll ever make

living room with modular sofa
Followtheflow / Shutterstock

Who doesn’t love furniture pieces that can do double duty? For small spaces, multifunctional furniture gives you options where you might have none. They are a great way to maximize space and offer innovative storage solutions. Not only will using one save you square footage, but its multifunctional uses also mean less expense down the line. With multifunctional furniture ideas, your space will be one that looks put together and functions efficiently.

What is multifunctional furniture?

Simply put, multifunctional furniture provides more than one function. They can be anything from a chair to a table. It gives you the advantage of having a piece that serves its primary use and another use. Since you only need to purchase one item, using them in a design can save you money. Often space savers, these pieces can be chock full of storage. They are also versatile enough to be used in multiple rooms throughout your home.

Recommended Videos

Modular sofa

These shapeshifters work well in any room because you can change them to fit the dimensions you have. They are ideal if you often like to change your layout as they give you options. Generally, they come with a chaise lounge which can be switched around or removed when needed and sometimes have hidden storage compartments. Often, you can convert them into a sleeping area, so they work well for overnight guests as well.

Pull-out sofa

Every living room should have seating. Why not have some that second as a sleeping space? Don’t have a guest room? No problem when your couch turns into one. Pull-out sofas have come a long way, and today there are many combinations and configurations to choose from. What if your space is too petite for a sofa? Some chairs transform into twin-size beds.

Futon or day bed

If you frequently have overnight guests or need an additional sleeping space, a day bed or futon can offer you seating space by day and easily be converted to a bed at night. Simply add accent pillows or a textured throw to style it as a couch. The slimmer profiles on both mean they work better in smaller spaces that can’t accommodate the bulk of a sofa bed.

Nesting tables

These handy tables offer a lot of versatility. Usually in a trio, when not needed, the two smaller tables tuck inside the largest one. Then on occasions when more surfaces are needed, they can be pulled apart to offer three tabletops. They can even be used as a desk for laptops and other items if needed.

Coffee table with storage

By the look of it, you would assume it was your standard coffee table but lift the tabletop, and a large storage compartment is revealed. Great for storing games, toys, and any odds and ends, these tables come in any design style.

living room with bookshelf
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Barely-there side table

When space is minimal, these sleek side tables slide into action. Often sleek and minimal in design, the base easily fits under your couch, so it doesn’t take up any valuable floor space. The top surface is ideal for keeping drinks and remote controls within reach.

Storage ottomans

Often used in place of a coffee table, these large, padded pieces work well with a tray on top. The inside offers large storage space for toys, books, and other items. Since they are cushioned, they make a comfortable footrest or additional spot to sit when needed.

Storage cube

This can be one of the most flexible pieces to add to your design. Use it as extra seating, an ottoman to prop your feet up on, or a side table when you need one. It can be housed in a side location in the room and pulled around the coffee table when company comes.

Bookshelf

Don’t underestimate how useful a bookcase can be in a living room. This simple piece of furniture can accommodate many items. The most obvious may be to house books, but they can also hold decorative accessories, family photos, and storage baskets. The top surface of a low bookcase works well to put your television on, and a taller one will take advantage of vertical space.

By bringing multifunctional pieces into your living room, you have furniture that offers flexibility and saves you money. Once you see how well they work in one space, you may just be tempted to add one to every room in your home.

Darcey Gohring
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Darcey Gohring is a freelance writer based just outside New York City. She served as the managing editor of New Jersey…
9 creative ways you can make your small laundry room feel huge
Try these simple DIY solutions for maximizing space in your tiny laundry room
Small laundry room with washer and dryer and potted plants

Laundry rooms are notoriously very small. Finding space to fold, iron, or hang clothes is not always easy. Worse, these rooms have a tendency to look dark and dingy, making laundry chores feel more like a hindrance. If you want the experience of doing laundry in your home to be a pleasant one, you’ll want to take advantage of some creative small laundry room design tips that will make your small laundry room look huge.

Modern laundry rooms often make use of vertical space, brighten up the walls, and use space-saving small laundry room ideas to make the room look big, even if it’s really not. Instead of cramming everything into a tiny room, open up the area with these nine DIY small laundry room ideas.
Hang up big mirrors

Read more
You’ll love these elegant, luxe shower tile ideas
Give your morning routine a boost of elegance
Bathroom shower with sink and shelves

Your shower is more than just a place to get clean. It’s a sanctuary and a retreat where you can unwind and rejuvenate. One of the best ways to elevate your morning routine is through elegant, luxe shower tiles. Whether you're renovating an existing bathroom or designing a new one, the right shower tiles can transform your space into a haven of style and comfort.

Let's explore 11 shower tile ideas that combine elegance, luxury, and functionality to inspire your next bathroom upgrade!
1. Classic white subway tile

Read more
A coastal farmhouse living room is the cozy, casual aesthetic you need
Blend coastal decor with farmhouse design to achieve a fresh yet cozy look in your living room
White sofa with navy accents in front of shiplap wall

Sorry Chip and Joanna, there’s a new farmhouse style that’s capturing everyone’s hearts. While modern farmhouse decor is still a popular choice, many are turning to a cozier, breezier aesthetic: coastal farmhouse. This style combines the best parts of farmhouse and coastal decor to create a chic but still homey design style. How can you mix coastal and farmhouse? Keep reading to learn more about this laid-back aesthetic and ways to incorporate it into your living area.
Understanding the basics

Before you incorporate coastal farmhouse design into your home, it’s important to know the essential elements of each style. Farmhouse is a rustic interior design style inspired by colonial American farmhouses. The style prioritizes comfort and function and feels inviting for family and friends. Design elements are often simple, relaxed, and cozy. Furniture and decorative elements appear vintage and rustic, with a worn-in charm. Classic farmhouse elements include exposed wood beams, open shelving, rough textures, and welcoming, neutral hues.

Read more