Dear Nicole, I need some small living room advice. Currently, the tiny space is occupied by a rather large, low, modern couch from West Elm. Don't get me wrong, it's an attractive piece, but it dominates the room. We have a TV opposite the couch, and are looking to get some sort of additional seating in the space. Do you have any suggestions for what type of chair might compliment our couch? Its charcoal with reddish-orange accent pillows.

Thank you, Erin

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Thank you for writing in Erin. One challenge I find people often have in the city is that they try to impose a traditional layout onto a not so traditional space. In other words, this space cannot hold a typical den like setup, and we should exercise thinking outside the box, have a little fun, and focus on what function you want for the room. It is a fine sofa for the two of you to enjoy a movie, but for accommodating friends and entertaining, here are a couple of ideas to get you started.

For unimposing seating I have always been partial to the Moroccan approach with it's large floor pillows in various fabrics, maybe bring some prints into the space, and they can stack in a corner when not in use. I am really into Ikat fabrics at the moment, they add a fresh appeal to an ethnic look.

To give the room more options without adding another large footprint, perhaps try a set of nesting tables as well, that way when you entertain you can expand the capacity for drinks tables and having small plates of food. There are many options on the market, but I would recommend having a local wood worker create just the sizes you want, in a simple construction, and in a solid wood, like cherry or walnut, with an oil rubbed finish. These pieces would oxidize over time getting a richer deeper color, and the valuable additions that will last a lifetime.