(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best living room furniture

A lot of us made mistakes starting out, but what's important is we learn from our mistakes, take the advice given, and improve the quality of life for our little buddies. I also understand having too small a space for a really big tank, but a 5g or even a 5.5g is really NOT that big... as reference, I originally had 3.5g tanks (the TopFin Enchant) for my bois with lots of water quality maintenance, but recently switched over to 5.5g tanks (TopFin Essentials kit) which fit in the EXACT same places the old 3.5g tanks fit (after doing a bit of cleaning and moving of stuff that didn't actually need to be there on the tabletop or simply sliding them over a bit). The tanks are just a bit more longer, around 16 inches long, but if you think about it, that's really not that bad and will fit fine on most nightstands or side-tables / end-tables or whatnot. I actually wish I had made the switch sooner. I see a NOTICEABLE difference in how much more active my bettas are now with the slightly larger tanks, even though they were quite active in the 3.5g tanks.

Do keep in mind that a filled 5g tank will weigh around 40 lb, and a 5.5g will weigh around 45 lb, so whatever you choose to keep them on should be able to support that amount of weight without collapsing (don't let that discourage you from getting the proper size tank though, just make sure to find sturdy furniture to keep them on :) and all will be well).

Here's some possible sturdy yet small shelfs/tables which will fit a 5.5g tank:

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-3-Shelf-Shelving-Unit-Black/dp/B01LWP8AL2/ (it says each shelf can support up to 250 lb). The only thing I would add (although optional, but would provide better support for the tank) is a sturdy but thin plank of wood to the top shelf surface for the tank to sit on top.

https://www.amazon.com/RooLee-Tables-Living-Vintage-Storage/dp/B07LC9F89R (another option that looks very sturdy, and would be amazing as a 5.5g aquarium stand, but costs more)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TLLSN5R/ (somewhat costly but looks great and sturdy)

https://www.amazon.com/SONGMICS-Vintage-Assembly-Furniture-ULET41X/dp/B074WNTK3Q/

• Sturdy & durable: Made of angle iron, the structure is solid and stable; coated with veneer, the Top surface is waterproof and wear- resistant; Simple yet practical
  
• Product Size: 17. 7”L x 17. 7”W x 21. 6”H, fits in an entryway, next to sofa; especially in small places, handy Furniture
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Sandusky-WS201232-B-Industrial-Welded-Shelving/dp/B00G2688AU/
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Winsome-Wood-20218-Claire-Accent/dp/B000NPSGPS/ <--cheap yet good /sturdy according to reviews.
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Sauder-419229-Canal-Street-Table/dp/B01DASJ3JM/
  
  https://www.amazon.com/OROPY-Vintage-Storage-Shelves-Nightstand/dp/B07RGYVGQX 【 2 Tier Storage Shelves 】Product Size: 19.58’’ x 11.81’’ x 19.58’’ (LxWxH). 2-tier shelves made of rustic MDF boards create large storage and display space.【 Durable Iron Frame 】Crafted of strong iron frame, heavy duty and max weight loading capacity is more than 100 lbs. Coated with eco-friendly black matt paint. Rust-proof and long service life.
  
  ​
  
  Here's my 5.5g tanks with my anger-bois:
  
  https://i.imgur.com/x7VLj4l.mp4
  
  https://i.imgur.com/ty9t3RJ.mp4

This is a replica. I was pretty skeptical buying it at first, but very happy with the purchase. I get lots of compliments on it. More importantly, it's super comfortable.

Mid Century Lounge Chair with Ottoman,Modern Classic Design,Palisander Wood Natural Leather,Heavy Duty Base Support for Living Room(A Black Palisander) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FJ6THDT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3x9HDbWV637BV

I actually really like the furniture they used in the software rendering. If I were you, I would get as close to that as possible, with the exception of the couch (and dining table). I wouldn't recommend a white couch because of spills and whatnot.

really digging the plants you picked out, especially the bonsai. Those screenprints you have also look pretty sweet. Are they 24x36?

As for the coffee table: Check out this one from Amazon
It matches the other stuff you picked out and you'll have plenty of room for blurays, dvds, etc. The one you currently picked looks a little large. You're also going to probably want an area rug for underneath the coffee table. Whatever couch color you go with, you should have your armchair match. The one you picked looks pretty cool but the wooden arms might be a tad uncomfortable

As for the dining table, I REALLY recommend going with a rectangular table like they did. You will maximize your efficiency of the space- and trust me you'll want that space when you're eating/studying/whatever you might be doing there. This is just my opinion though, and the table you chose could look decent.
I also like your selection for the patio furniture. Very intimate, and the lanterns will be a nice touch. Cool stuff man

I'm really glad you linked the links and ideas. That art is a good example of how three pieces, presented well (framed, matted, good alignment/spacing) can really add to a room. And those storage cubes you can get at Walmart or Target (or your local equivalent) for cheap too.

> Also, you mentioned a coffee table but you linked something that Amazon says is a bench, I guess you just repurposed it instead?

Eh, bench style. Officially it is called the Nelson Platform Bench. It has been around for 70 years, but you wouldn't know it because it's just the kind of design that never goes out of style. Like Wayfarer sunglasses. That one link I posted is basically the same design, just with different legs.

While I'm on it, those Eiffel side chairs I linked to are almost as old, designed by Ray and Charles Eames, who are pretty famous in the mid-century modern style. Some models cost a pretty penny, but you can do a lot cheaper. You said you already had eating chairs, so maybe not these right away.

It sounds like a storage ottoman that can pull up to the couch may be more what you're after. Something like this or this?

This and this or this are other coffee table ideas with more storage. Apologies if Amazon does not ship to your area.

I live in a 230sqft studio and I have my bed on a FOLDABLE metal platform (https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Foldable-Platform-Under-Bed-Storage/dp/B073WRF565) , I also have it on risers so that I can put my storage bins underneath (ie extra blankets, winter gear, camping gear, etc) As for a mattress, I have a Nectar mattress. I also used to sleep on the floor lol I didn’t have any issues with it but it took up a lot of space that I didn’t have at my studio.

I have a couch that is also a futon for guests and it also came in a box so if I need to move again, I I could easily break it down to fit it in my hatchback. (https://www.amazon.com/Novogratz-Brittany-Sofa-Futon-Linen/dp/B01LY1WBQN) it looks expensive, a little on the firm side but still comfortable with the right pillows. I got it on prime day for $200 😅

I don’t have a closet but I have an ikea wardrobe. It’s small and has allowed me to downsize on my clothing.

I also have this coffee table that looks pretty good and the legs can fold down and I can put it away if I need more space. (https://www.amazon.com/AZUMAYA-Folding-Coffee-Center-TAC-229/dp/B0077HY08M)

Hey it's all about what makes you happy!

You can use this site to play around with the arrangements of the living room. Just plug in the dimensions and go nuts!

Personally, I like having all seats facing each other - so when people are all over, you create a social zone for everyone to enjoy together. A nice coffee table placed center on that carpet would allow you to put your feet up, and add a bit of storage and a place to put your beers :-) Definitely throw that sitting chair next to where you have the TV, for starters. Play around with the placement!

Head over to Home Depot or some such place with a picture of your cabinet handy. I'm thinking brass fixtures would liven them up a bit, and Home Depot has a pretty wide array of choices. Also, look into accent lighting. I've found that dark kitchens lit only by fluorescent lights get a bit depressing. You don't have to go crazy - maybe just replacing the fixture will help add character.

Do it! My shikibuton is the best sleeping surface I've ever used, bar none! I beats out my old expensive king-sized memory foam bed and mattress, handily!

I bought my shikibuton and tri-fold mats on Amazon. I use normal sheets and blanket.

Also, the buckwheat pillows are great!

Anyway, every morning I fold and store them away. I put em out every evening.

I love the extra space. And I actually sleep great on it!

I wish you the best of luck!! :)

Thanks for the contest!

That's pretty badass.

Hellllllllllpppppp

I've always struggled to find a sectional I like and now I found one I LOVE but it only comes in 2 shades of grey and I don't know how it will look with the tables I've picked out and the general colour scheme of rich jewel tones (which I have picked)

I haven't gotten any of the things I'm linking yet and won't be for a while (because dreams are expensive) but can someone see if they can picture these today with jewel tones blankets and pillows (rich burgundies, deep purple, royal blues, etc)

Light Sofa


Dark Sofa


Coffee Table


Side Tables

I would probably do something like this for the windows to pull in the really nice blue in your throw pillows: (http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Blue-Agave-Yarn-Dyed-Faux-Dupioni-Silk-Curtain-Panel/8561442/product.html?refccid=GIAWCAW7JMXJJWSGYQ3XXWMLCA&searchidx=45)
For coffee tables I like these two: (http://www.amazon.com/Garretson-Storage-Coffee-Espresso-Finish/dp/B008I8BETW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417665683&sr=8-1&keywords=coffee+table+with+storage) and
(http://www.amazon.com/Furniture-America-Lansing-Rectangular-Storage/dp/B00ATNKGY8/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1417665683&sr=8-15&keywords=coffee+table+with+storage)
For a rug I'm honestly not sure, I feel like a cream would be nice, but hard to keep clean, so maybe a light gray blue? Love the look so far with what you have, the fireplace especially.

You can get a pretty cheap futon with a REALLY good mattress for under 300$ if thats within your price range.

I did the mattress on the floor bit for 3 years after moving out to wyoming and it fucking sucked. Killed my back, never wanted to have anyone over and even less entertained the idea of having a woman over.

https://www.amazon.com/DHP-8-Inch-Independently-Encased-Premium-Mattress/dp/B004LQ1RGA/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1504724711&sr=1-4

Suuuuper comfy and doesn't give out easily. I've had mine for.... shit over 4 years now and its almost as good as it was day one. Not the easiest set up to have sex on lol but it'll work. And i guess the frame they recommend is also the one i bought, it can be slightly noisy but nothing terrible. And the price for both of them is about 200$ thanks to the frame being on sale!

Hopefully you can get something like this. Just something as simple as being able to put your feet down when you wake up out of bed is a game changer.

http://www.amazon.com/Winsome-Wood-Rochester-Console-Drawer/dp/B0046EC1CG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1407185272&sr=8-7&keywords=desk

if you're on a budget. I purchased this for my dorm room. its really nice and surprisingly great quality for price. the reviews are also great.

From this, to this.

But this is the one we'd looked at before.

Good luck and have fun! :)

Hey! Thanks for you input, I’ll definitely be looking for something dramatic! Maybe some abstract art. The nightstands are from amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C1A5BMS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_IGoACbVX1MZ37 they are amazing quality and not a bad price!

Do you have to keep the couches? I think maybe a gray sectional would look better. The brown couches don’t flow well with the space, IMO. Even just couch and love seat or couch and chair would look good too. Just something more modern and not brown and lumpy.

I couldn’t find the one I was thinking of, it’s from Costco though. But it’s dark gray and similar to this

Newly acquired college pad.. really struggling to commit to a rug just because the floor is so busy. I really like those vintage looking rugs with patterns but I think it would be way to busy with these floors. Also trying to stray away from getting a solid white/light grey since I don't have any color in the room.

Also I just purchased this round coffee table, hoping it'll suit the room?

I know the TV is too high, please don't roast me.

This looks great I read reviews that said it is delivered rolled up like a poster. So easy handling and it looks like a great bed- it has the coils built in. I think to avoid bed bugs/ mold under the bed maybe lift it up about once a week and leave it against the wall for a day when youre out shopping etc

My life would greatly improve with This bathroom set because ours is falling apart and looks like crap, or This table because our current one is a safety hazard to our three children or a weight set to get into shape.

Somethings I think you should add to your list are: one, two, three, because I noticed you like camping as well. We try to camp as often as possible it is just so relaxing getting to get away from everything for a weekend.

https://www.amazon.com/GDF-Studio-299909-Caspar-Walnut/dp/B01N9T4K6I

Pretty cheap price and the quality was surprisingly excellent. It’s solid wood, not particle board.

This "yoga chair" thingy is great and way easier to clean than bedsheets. www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01IV7VOTO

On such a historic building, this is absolutely the best way to go:

https://www.amazon.com/FITUEYES-Universal-Swivel-Adjustable-TT106001MB/dp/B01M3XIJRG

Quick, easy, and painless.

amazon sells 75in by 75in kotatsu at $128, but if you have the money to blow, they recommend these $180 75in by 75in kotatsu because it has more positive reviews

Damn, so much unwarranted rudeness in the comments for just asking for help.

I would start looking around on Amazon, they have a pretty good desk selection. I don't know specifically what type of desk you are looking for but, something like this fits your dimensions.

You could also look into "training tables." that's what I use because I prefer large unobstructed desk space. I don't know what your budget is but something like this or this might work for you.

Modway Render, 59" TV Stand, Walnut

I have this one as well, although I found it on sale at Home Depot. It’s a great looking TV stand at a good price, although not solid wood if that matters at all.

Thanks for the suggestions, really appreciate the help. I think I'm going to end up either with the 1st one from above (link) or this one

I suggest something small like this nesting coffee table here! And here’s a nice picture from the reviews for example :)

My interior designer girlfriend had one of these foldable coffee tables and I picked one up too and loving it. It's pretty sturdy, foldable, and relatively affordable.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0077HY08M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Nice setup.

If you're looking for a stand for your PC, this is the one I bought recently and works wonders. It would match your current desk perfectly. It's shorter than it looks in the picture....

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EP6SQ74

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. I bought the table that the tower is on from Amazon. Here's the link https://www.amazon.com/Crown-Mark-Pierce-Table-Black/dp/B00EP6SQ74/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469732391&sr=8-1&keywords=crown+mark+pierce+side+table

Oh that sounds really cool. I was also thinking something like this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FM0OV1W/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1465149998&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=lift+top+table+coffee&dpPl=1&dpID=41GpTOX0U6L&ref=plSrch

The top of it lifts up if you want to do laptop work or eating etc

Table:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071KSQ13C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would not recommend the tv stand though, although it's pretty nice looking it was the hardest thing I've ever had to assemble
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078K9RK45/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got them from Amazon. Not what I was expecting honestly and I'm looking to replace them as the price definitely reflects the quality.

If you do end up having to use Amazon, check out this one. I bought it a couple years ago and I've been really happy with it.

I've got the same one. Very happy with it for the money. Solid construction.

Could do something like this, have the foot of the stand under the chest. They make shorter table top stands (that swivel side to side) too, but that chest is already high, you'd want the TV closer to the surface so you can view comfortably.

Mid Century Lounge Chair with Ottoman,Modern Classic Design,Palisander Wood Natural Leather,Heavy Duty Base Support for Living Room(A Black Palisander https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FJ6THDT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_mBg4Bbl4D8O1j

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FM0OV1W/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1422418419&sr=1&keywords=Lift+top+coffee+table this is the cheap one we bought but there's much nicer ones out there and different shapes. Try overstock.com and Brookstone too

HOMFA Nesting Coffee End Tables Modern Decor Side Table for Home and Office ( White, Set of 2 ) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075M2QW4T/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_OXc5BbYZGW95F

I had them on a wish list on Amazon. I'm in the US, but I'm assuming that it should ship to UK as well.

Amazon, actually! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008XEV1G2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

For the price, I really like it.

It’s the comforter for the kotatsu table. Here’s a link to one on amazon

Azumaya Kotatsu Futon Square (75 x 75 Inches) Brown KK-101BR 100% Polyester Fabric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CXDS8OW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iSQ3Cb0J7NT4Z

Some people, including my SO and I, find this to be more comfortable than very expensive mattresses.

It's mostly the nightstand and the open rack by the window that I would replace.. your desk and bed are fine to stay

I would get something like this and a wall shelf to replace that stand:

https://www.allmodern.com/Varick-Gallery-Sandoz-1-Drawer-Night-Stand-VKGL4769-VKGL4769.html

https://www.amazon.com/Light-Walnut-White-Nighstand-Drawer/dp/B01C1A5BMS/ref=sr_1_1?s=furniture&ie=UTF8&qid=1480714959&sr=1-1&keywords=mid+century

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/images/products/malm-drawer-chest__0393747_PE562529_S4.JPG

Amazon. It's a little taller than I wanted, but overall I like it.

Well it’s your lucky day

55” and this is the actual stand it’s on. It’s just tucked behind the entertainment center.

I agree with you. Thinking of this cool modular piece!

Sure!

Crown Mark Pierce Side Table, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EP6SQ74/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_RLQvzbZ4H3FAT

U probably need something like this. I haven't used one, just happen to know that these things exist.

FITUEYES Universal TV Stand Base with Swivel Mount Height Adjustable for 26 to 55 Inch TV TT106001MB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M3XIJRG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UZ1NDbBQDDHFB

thanks! coffee table is from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008XEV1G2

table runner is from Bed Bath and Beyond. I can't remember the name of it :(

The smallest desk I found workable was inside a shelving unit; the shelves were 15" deep by 30" wide, just enough room for a keyboard in front of a monitor.

This is slightly larger and I would probably find it fine for temporary use:

https://smile.amazon.com/Winsome-Wood-94844-Rochester-Occasional/dp/B0046EC1CG/

Get this mattress: https://www.amazon.com/DHP-8-Inch-Independently-Encased-Premium-Mattress/dp/B004LQ1RGA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1502138342&sr=8-3&keywords=dhp+8%22+futon

Amazon also has a bunch of frames for not a lot of money. I'd go with a wood one over the metal ones personally

Just got it on Amazon: Mid Century Lounge Chair with... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FJ6THDT?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

When I was home shopping, a decent room layout for my HT setup was a deal breaker. Passed on a couple that didn’t have space for a surround setup.

Now I’m back to renting and totally feel your pain.

I’d go with the suggestion from others to mount above fireplace on a drop down, seems nicer layout, otherwise mount on one side of the protrusion on an articulating arm.

Another option could be a floor-standing mount in front of the protrusion and under an entertainment center:

FITUEYES Universal TV Stand Base With Swivel Mount Height Adjustable for 26 To 55 Inch TV TT106001MB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M3XIJRG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kd1PAbH436PK2

https://www.amazon.com/Modway-EEI-2541-WAL-Render-Stand-Walnut/dp/B078K9RK45

https://www.amazon.com/Light-Walnut-White-Nighstand-Drawer/dp/B01C1A5BMS/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1484607906&sr=8-10&keywords=nighstand

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004LQ1RGA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485940711&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=full+size+futon+mattress&dpPl=1&dpID=31ISfIhznmL&ref=plSrch

They're called end or side tables, unless your'e talking about the wood part. I have mine on this one.

FITUEYES Universal TV Stand... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M3XIJRG?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Crown Mark Pierce Side Table, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EP6SQ74?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

AZUMAYA Folding Coffee Center Table TAC-229 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0077HY08M?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

There are plenty of standing tv mounts out there that have internal cord hiders:

https://www.amazon.com/FITUEYES-Universal-Swivel-Adjustable-TT106001MB/dp/B01M3XIJRG

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078K9RK45/ref=twister_B07B8X8TT4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&coliid=I2J41IOWS1V1CZ&colid=N9ZEYFON1YVA

Here it is on Amazon. Not sure if they ship there or not, but hope this helps

Buy this. I use this one and NO ONE has complained at all. Anyone who ever sat or laid on it loves it. My parents have this for their spare bedroom, I have one in the living room and I have one in my bedroom (with some added foam). I have a buddy who crashes at my place who sleeps on the living room one. No issues from him either.

We all have the 8 inch.

https://www.amazon.com/DHP-8-Inch-Independently-Encased-Premium-Mattress/dp/B004LQ1RGA/ref=sr_1_4?s=furniture&ie=UTF8&qid=1550191190&sr=1-4&keywords=futon+mattress