How Far Should Your Couch Be? Practical Distance Tips for Every Room

Putting a sofa in the right spot feels like a magic trick – get it wrong and the room feels cramped, get it right and you’ve created a lounge that works. Below are the three distance rules that make a living room functional and cozy.

TV Viewing Distance: See Every Detail Without Straining

First, figure out how far your couch should sit from the TV. A good rule of thumb is to measure the screen diagonal and multiply it by 1.5 to 2.5. So a 55‑inch TV works best about 6½ to 11 feet away. Sit down on the couch and test it – if you have to move your head to see the edges, step a little back. If the picture looks grainy, move a bit forward.

Don’t forget height. The TV’s center should line up with your eye level when you’re seated. If the screen is too low, add a riser or mount it higher; if it’s too high, tilt the mount downward.

Coffee Table Gap: Keep It Cozy, Not Crowded

The space between the couch and coffee table matters for both looks and safety. Aim for a gap of about 1 to 2 inches – just enough to slide a remote or a drink without hitting your legs. The table’s length should be roughly two‑thirds the sofa’s length; a too‑big table overwhelms, a too‑small one looks lost.

Height is another quick fix. The tabletop should be about the same height as the sofa’s seat cushion, give or take an inch. This makes it easy to reach while you’re lounging.

Finally, allow at least 3 feet of clear walk‑through space around the sofa. This lets guests move freely and prevents tripping over stray cushions.

By sticking to these simple distance guidelines you’ll end up with a living room that feels balanced, looks intentional, and stays comfortable for movie night or a quick coffee break.