Back-to-Back Seating Splits a Small Living Room Into Two Zones
In a small 1920s rental living room, artist Jude Morgan placed a sofa back-to-back with seating to form two distinct zones. The sofa faces the TV area, while orange chairs behind it face French windows and create an art space. Separate rugs reinforce the division between the two functional areas.
Jude Morgan, an artist and designer, rented a 1920s apartment and prioritized room for her very large sofa. She also wanted a dedicated place to make art, having previously worked in shared areas of other homes. By positioning orange chairs behind the couch, she let the sofa face the television while the chairs looked toward French windows.
Two rugs help mark the zones. In the art-oriented area, she chose a West Elm Walker Noble Kuba wool rug, listed at $499 in a 5-by-8 size. The chairs, from Anthropologie, are no longer available; pillows that belonged to her mother and records from her father’s collection add personal meaning.
This story may resonate with renters, small-space dwellers, and artists who lack a dedicated studio. Seeing a living room divided through existing furniture could encourage them to rethink layouts rather than move or buy more pieces. It may also nudge design conversations toward zone-making with rugs and seating, showing how limited square footage can support both relaxation and creative work. Its impact is likely modest, but it could influence rental-friendly decorating choices.