Living Room Pit: My Modern Approach to Relaxation
Want a fresh way to make your living room more relaxing?
A sunken seating area, often called a living room pit, might be just what you need. These lowered spaces are returning to homes nationwide.
A living room pit creates a warm natural gathering spot—perfect for family time, entertaining friends, or simply unwinding after a long day.
The lowered design helps section off the space without walls, making the room feel open and cozy.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to plan your living room pit
- Design ideas that work for different homes
- Ways to style and furnish your sunken space
With over 15 years of experience designing home spaces, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about creating your perfect relaxation spot.
Popular Styles for Living Room Pits
1. Modern Minimalist
Clean shapes define this style, with straight edges and simple forms taking center stage.
The color scheme sticks to whites, grays, and blacks, creating a calm, uncluttered space.
Furniture pieces are low and streamlined, often in solid colors.
Unique features:
- Hidden storage solutions
- Floating shelves
- Glass and chrome accents
- Smooth, flat surfaces
- Linear lighting fixtures
2. Bohemian Bliss
This style freely mixes patterns and textures.
Floor cushions scatter among woven rugs, while plants hang from macramé holders.
Rich colors blend with natural materials, creating a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Unique features:
- Mixed pattern textiles
- Floor-level seating options
- Hanging plants
- Moroccan lanterns
- Handmade decorative items
3. Rustic Charm
Raw materials and natural elements combine to create a warm, inviting space.
Rough-hewn beams frame the pit, while soft blankets and cushions add comfort.
Earth tones dominate the color scheme.
Unique features:
- Reclaimed wood elements
- Natural stone details
- Iron hardware
- Woven baskets
- Chunky knit throws
4. Scandinavian Simplicity
White walls and pale woods create an airy, open feeling.
The furniture focuses on function without losing style.
Natural light is key, while cozy textiles add warmth to the minimal space.
Unique features:
- Blonde wood elements
- Sheepskin throws
- Simple line art
- Round-edged furniture
- Woven paper lights
5. Industrial Edge
In this style, raw materials meet modern comfort.
Exposed pipes and metalwork add character, while comfortable seating keeps the space livable.
The color palette centers on grays, blacks, and deep browns.
Unique features:
- Exposed brick walls
- Metal railings
- Edison bulb lighting
- Leather seating
- Concrete elements
6. Retro Vibes
This style brings back the best of past decades with a modern twist.
Curved furniture and bold patterns create visual interest, while comfort remains key.
Colors range from mustard yellow to deep orange and teal.
Unique features:
- Circular shapes
- Sunburst patterns
- Velvet upholstery
- Chrome details
- Colorful wall art
7. Art Deco Elegance
Sharp angles and bold geometry define this sophisticated look.
Rich colors mix with metallic finishes, creating a luxurious feel.
Symmetry plays a key role in furniture placement.
Unique features:
- Chevron patterns
- Gold or brass details
- Mirror accents
- Stepped designs
- Crystal light fixtures
8. Farmhouse Style
A mix of comfort and practicality shapes this welcoming design.
White walls contrast with natural wood elements, while soft fabrics invite relaxation.
Everything feels lived-in and loved.
Unique features:
- White wood panels
- Iron light fixtures
- Woven baskets
- Cotton textiles
- Distressed finishes
9. Mid-Century Modern
In this timeless style, simple forms meet organic curves.
Wooden elements show natural grain, while upholstery features both solid colors and subtle patterns.
The look stays clean without feeling cold.
Unique features:
- Tapered legs
- Organic shapes
- Teak wood tones
- Pin-leg furniture
- Starburst clocks
10. Coastal Cool
Ocean-inspired colors create a fresh, breezy feel. Light fabrics and natural materials bring the beach inside.
The overall effect feels open and relaxing.
Unique features:
- Striped patterns
- Rope details
- Weathered wood
- Glass accents
- Shell decorations
11. Urban Chic
Smart storage combines with sleek style in this city-inspired design.
Multi-purpose furniture makes the most of every inch.
Dark grays mix with pops of bright color for a modern city feel.
Unique features:
- Built-in charging stations
- Space-saving furniture
- Wall-mounted lights
- High-gloss finishes
- Smart tech integration
12. Eclectic Mix
Different styles come together in a personal way.
Favorite pieces from various eras create an interesting story.
Colors and patterns mix freely while keeping a sense of balance.
Unique features:
- Mixed-era furniture
- Personal collections
- Various textures
- Unexpected color combos
- Diverse art pieces
13. Luxury Lounge
Rich fabrics and fine details create an upscale feel. Deep seating invites long conversations.
Lighting plays with shadows and highlights special features.
Unique features:
- Tufted upholstery
- Crystal elements
- Silk pillows
- Mood lighting
- High-end finishes
14. Outdoor-Inspired
Bringing nature inside guides this fresh design.
Plants and natural materials create a garden-like feel. Light flows freely through the space.
Unique features:
- Living walls
- Stone textures
- Natural fiber rugs
- Large plants
- Wood grain details
15. Traditional Comfort
Time-tested designs meet modern needs in this classic style. Matched furniture sets create a put-together look.
Everything feels familiar and comfortable.
Unique features:
- Rolled arms
- Skirted furniture
- Framed mirrors
- Table lamps
- Crown molding
16. Contemporary Flair
New ideas and fresh takes on classics shape this modern style. Clean lines mix with interesting shapes.
The look stays current without following trends too closely.
Unique features:
- Mixed materials
- Statement pieces
- LED lighting
- Unique shapes
- Bold art
17. Zen Retreat
Peace and calm guide every choice in this simple style.
Natural materials and soft colors create a quiet space. Everything has its place.
Unique features:
- Low-level furniture
- Water features
- Natural stone
- Bamboo elements
- Simple art pieces
18. Tropical Escape
Palm prints and natural textures bring vacation vibes home.
Bright colors mix with deep greens for a lush feel, and light, airy fabrics move with each breeze from nearby windows.
Unique features:
- Leaf patterns
- Rattan furniture
- Natural fiber rugs
- Bird of Paradise plants
- Woven pendant lights
19. Global Fusion
Different cultures inspire this worldly style.
Handmade items from various countries create interest, and colors and patterns tell stories from around the world.
Unique features:
- Hand-woven textiles
- Cultural art pieces
- Mixed metal finishes
- Prayer beads
- Carved wood details
20. Monochromatic Elegance
One color in different shades creates a smooth, flowing look.
Textures add depth to the single-color scheme. Every piece works together for a clean, unified space.
Unique features:
- Tonal variations
- Textured fabrics
- Layer lighting
- Mixed materials
- Subtle patterns
21. Hollywood Glam
Old movie star style meets modern comfort.
Shiny surfaces reflect light throughout the space, and every detail adds a tmouch of luxury and drama.
Unique features:
- Mirror finishes
- Tufted seating
- Statement lighting
- Faux fur throws
- Black and white photos
Design Tip: Pick the style that matches your daily life, not just what looks good in photos.
The best pit is one you’ll use and love every day.
Must-Have Accessories for a Living Room Pit
1. Big, Soft Throw Pillows
You’ll want 4-6 large pillows that measure at least 24 inches.
Look for washable covers and plump fills.
Mix solid colors with simple patterns to keep things interesting without being too busy.
2. Thick Area Rugs
A good rug is worth every penny.
Pick one that extends about two feet beyond your seating.
I suggest getting two identical rugs—one for the pit floor and one for the main floor level.
This creates a nice flow between spaces.
3. Warm Light Sources
Small table lamps work great in corners.
Try placing 2-3 around your pit at different heights.
For something different, install wall sconces. They save space and cast a nice glow without taking up floor space.
4. Short Tables
Look for coffee tables around 12-16 inches high.
Round shapes work best since people move around the pit more than in regular seating areas.
I like tables with storage inside – they’re super handy.
5. Wall Storage
Built-in shelves at pit level keep books and items within easy reach.
Add some small baskets to hide remotes and chargers.
The shelves also make great spots for plants or photos.
6. Cozy Blankets
Keep 3-4 different blankets handy.
I recommend having both light and heavy options.
Roll them up in a basket when not in use – it looks neat and saves space.
7. Small Organizing Trays
Place flat trays on your coffee tables to group small items.
This keeps things tidy and makes the space feel put together.
Wood or metal trays work well and add a nice touch.
What Furniture Works Best in a Living Room Pit?
Picking the right furniture can make or break your sunken seating area.
I’ve learned what works after helping hundreds of homeowners set up their pits.
Here are my top furniture picks that combine comfort with smart design.
Low-Back Sofas
The best sofas sit close to the ground and have backs that don’t rise above your pit’s upper edge.
This keeps sight lines clear across your room.
Look for seats between 24 and 28 inches high – perfect for sitting and lounging.
Bean Bags and Floor Cushions
These casual seats add flexibility to your space.
You can easily move guests around or push them aside for more floor space when guests come over.
Kids especially love these! I suggest getting three or four in different sizes.
Mix-and-Match Sections
Do you sometimes want to change things up?
Sectional pieces let you switch your layout whenever you like. Start with a three-piece set and add more parts as needed.
Before buying, ensure each piece can fit through your stairs and pit entrance.
Multi-Use Ottomans
Good Ottomans pull double duty.
They work as:
- Extra seats when friends visit
- Footrests during movie nights
- Small tables when you add a tray on top
- Hidden storage for blankets and pillows
Built-In Bench Seating
Having seats built just for your pit costs more upfront but saves money over time. They:
- Fit your space perfectly
- Include hidden storage spots
- Last longer than regular furniture
- Save floor space
Quick Tip: Measure the entrance to your pit before buying any big pieces of furniture. You don’t want to be stuck with furniture you can’t move in!
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Living Room Pit Design
Making Your Pit Too Big (or Too Small)
Your pit should take up about a third of your living room space.
I once worked with a client whose pit was so large they couldn’t fit a walkway around it.
Another had one so small it felt more like a hole than a seating area.
Get your measuring tape out – at least 3 feet of walking space around all sides.
Using the Wrong Fabrics
This is a place to eat, drink, and relax. Regular cotton will not hold up well here.
Pick materials like:
- Microfiber for easy cleaning
- Indoor-outdoor fabrics for lasting color
- Stain-resistant options for peace of mind
- Washable covers for quick changes
Stuffing Too Much In
In a pit setting, less is really more.
One of my clients tried to fit three sofas, two coffee tables, and countless decorations in their pit.
Nobody could move! Stick to one main seating piece and a few well-chosen extras.
Bad Lighting Setup
Your pit shouldn’t feel like a cave or an office.
Mix different light sources:
- Wall lights at eye level
- Small lamps in corners
- Step lights along the edges
- The main room lights above
Forgetting About Air Flow
A sunken space needs good air movement.
Install a ceiling fan nearby or add a small circulating fan. Ensure your home’s air vents aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs.
Good airflow keeps everyone comfortable and prevents musty smells.
Pro Tip: Before making any permanent changes, mark out the size of your pit with tape on the floor.
Live with it for a week to see how it affects your daily routine.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Living Room Pit?
Better Family Time
A sunken seating space naturally pulls people together.
The lower level creates a cozy spot where everyone wants to gather.
Many clients tell me that since adding their pit, their families have spent more time chatting, playing games, and watching movies together.
Smart Use of Room Space
Unlike regular furniture that can make a room feel smaller, a pit opens up your space.
The sunken design means you can fit more seating without cluttering the room.
Plus, the upper level stays free for walking or placing other items you need.
Eye-Catching Style
Your living room won’t look like anyone else’s.
The different levels add depth to your space and immediately catch your attention.
I’ve seen how a well-designed pit becomes the talking point at every gathering.
Perfect Relaxation Spot
Think of it as your little retreat.
The lowered walls create a sense of being tucked away from the world.
My clients often say it’s their favorite spot to unwind with a book or take an afternoon nap.
Fits Your Life
You can make your pit work for:
- Movie nights with the whole family
- Reading corners with built-in shelves
- Play areas for kids
- Party spaces when friends visit
- Quiet spots for morning coffee
A Real Example is that one family I worked with turned their pit into a mini home theater on weekends and a weekday homework spot.
Their kids started doing more schoolwork in the living room to be in this comfy space!
Conclusion
A sunken seating space can turn your regular living room into something special.
The key is finding what works best in your home and for your family.
Start small with your design choices. You can always add more features as you see how you use the space.
Ready to start planning? Remember to focus on:
- Getting the size right for your room
- Picking comfortable, long-lasting furniture
- Keeping the design simple and practical
Have you seen a living room pit that caught your eye? Share your ideas in the comments below.
I’d love to hear and share what I’ve learned from helping others create their perfect sunken spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Living Room Pit?
A living room pit is a sunken seating area designed for comfort and style, often featuring low furniture and a cozy, communal vibe.
Are Living Room Pits Suitable for Small Spaces?
Yes, they maximize space efficiently by creating a defined seating area without bulky furniture, making them perfect for compact living rooms.
What Styles Work Best for Living Room Pits?
Living room pits can be in various styles, including modern, rustic, bohemian, and minimalist, depending on your preferences and overall home décor.
How Can I Decorate a Living Room Pit?
Throw pillows, rugs, ambient lighting, low tables, and decorative trays can enhance the style and comfort of your living room.
Is a Living Room Pit Expensive to Build?
Costs vary based on materials and customization, but a basic living room pit can fit most budgets with careful planning and material choices.