Small living rooms have a reputation problem. Most people think you need square footage to make a space feel inviting, ...

Sure, the sweeping and symmetrical rooms you see on most house tours via social media or in glossy magazines are slick and stylish, but they’re super easy to work with, so it’s hardly surprising.

Only some homes have a grand foyers, great rooms and huge living areas. More often, homes have at least one small gathering room. Homeowners can enjoy smaller spaces and make them look larger with the ...