February 2006

The Four Goals of a Conversation Area1. To create a simple arrangement of furniture so that people can sit facing each other and can speak without raising their voices. Generally, the basic ingredients required to create the ideal conversation arrangement is a standard living room are a sofa, a piece of furniture serving as a coffee table (it can be an ottoman, for instance), and two upholstered chairs. There are alternatives, however, such as a pair of loveseats with a pair of chairs. But keep two things in mind: a) upholstered furniture is the more comfortable, and b) whatever the configuration, everyone seated should be able to reach the central coffee table. If space allows, a secondary privacy area can be set up, which might consist of a desk and a chair, or a club chair and ottoman with a table and lamp next to it. Very large rooms can even hold back-to-back sofas or love seats, creating two separate and distinct conversation areas with the addition of chairs.2. To establish a focal point in the room. A wall unit, fireplace (a real on if you're lucky, or a fake one, if you can manage it), or even a grand piano can serve as the ...