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STUDIO 790 BLOG POST

Are You Asking This Question Before Buying Furniture? Why Flow Matters More Than Furniture Placement

  • Writer: Ann Lopez
    Ann Lopez
  • Aug 5
  • 2 min read

Modern living room with beige sofas, wooden table, and large TV. Soft light, neutral tones, and open book on table. Elegant, calm atmosphere.


A room that looks good is nice. But a room that feels good? That’s design that lasts.

At Studio 790, one of the first questions we ask during a project isn't, “Where should the sofa go?” 

It's: “How will people move through this space?”


We believe the true foundation of beautiful design isn’t just furniture or finishes, it’s flow.


What Do We Mean by “Flow”?

Flow and furniture placement is about how you move through your home both physically and visually. It’s the natural rhythm of doorways, sightlines, walking paths, and functional zones working with your life instead of against it. If you’ve ever had to shimmy sideways between a chair and a coffee table, or take the long way around a dining table to get to the kitchen, you’ve experienced poor flow.


Design that prioritizes flow helps your space:

  • Feel intuitive and easy to navigate

  • Support how your family actually lives

  • Look more open, balanced, and intentional


Beige sofa with striped pillows in a bright, plant-filled room. Wooden coffee table with books. Vibrant art on wall. Relaxed mood.

Before You Place the Sofa…

Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you start arranging (or purchasing!) furniture:

  • Where are the natural walkways in this room? Are there clear, unobstructed paths between major zones?

  • Will anyone need to zig-zag or squeeze past furniture to get through?

  • Can I move from the kitchen to the dining area with ease?

  • Do my seating areas support conversation and connection?


Bright living room with a white sectional sofa, blue pillows, brown leather ottoman, black chair, gray rug, and framed photos on the wall.

Try This Simple Trick Before You Buy

Painter’s tape is your best friend.


Here’s how we test a layout before committing to furniture:

  1. Use painter’s tape to outline the footprint of key pieces (sofa, chairs, dining table) on the floor.

  2. Walk through the room like it’s real life, go from entryway to kitchen, living to dining.

  3. Pay attention to any tight turns, awkward walkways, or blocked sightlines.

  4. Adjust spacing or rethink placement before hitting “add to cart.”


A few inches here and there can make a massive difference in how a space feels.


Modern living room with large windows, black sofa, gold decor, and a white dining area. Cityscape view; bright and airy atmosphere.

Because Your Home Should Work Beautifully—for You

Whether you’re furnishing a new build or refreshing your current layout, designing for flow will elevate the comfort, functionality, and overall feel of your home.


Want to see what this looks like in real life? Browse our recent projects here for real-home layouts that blend beauty and livability.


And if you’re stuck trying to figure out your layout, we’re here to help. Get in touch.

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