Football Game Day Layout Guide

Watching the game from home means one thing, ensuring your living room is party-ready. While your living room might feel too small or not very guest-friendly, we've created four layouts to make any space ready for large crowds and touchdown celebrations.

Game day is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by transforming your living room into the ultimate game day place-to-be. Whether you’re hosting a crowd of diehard fans or a mix of guests with different interests, we’ve got you covered with these four creative layout ideas. Let’s make your space touchdown-ready!

Game Day Layouts. Game Focused, Touchdown Ready. Game Focused, Head to Head. Multifunctional, Kid-Friendly Zone. Multifunctional, Multiple activity Zones.

1. The Touchdown-Ready Layout

This setup is all about ensuring every guest has a front-row seat to the action.

How to Arrange It:

Position your sectional (or sofa set) in a U-shape or L-shape facing the TV to create theater-style seating
Place recliners on either side of the sectional to fill gaps and add premium seating options
Scatter ottomans and floor pillows in front of the main seating for overflow guests
Center your TV stand or home theater wall on the main wall to serve as the focal point

Tips & Recommendations:

Place a large L-shaped sectional with chaise lounges for maximum seating capacity, giving guests plenty of room to spread out comfortably during the big game
Style two power recliners with USB ports so guests can recharge devices without leaving their seats—staying engaged and comfortable throughout the match
Sneak in some storage ottomans that double as seating or footrests to cleverly hide extra blankets or game day gear when not in use
Center a media console with cable management systems on one wall to maintain a clean, distraction-free viewing experience and keep sightlines clear to the screen
Disperse oversized floor poufs in team colors for flexible, movable seating that guests can easily shift to find the perfect viewing angle

2. The Head-to-Head Layout

For those who love a little friendly rivalry, this layout encourages team spirit and conversation.

How to Arrange It:

Place two sofas parallel to each other with a spacious coffee table in between.
Position the TV on the wall perpendicular to both sofas so all seats face the screen.
Add armchairs or accent chairs at the ends to complete the seating arrangement.
Leave walkways on both sides for easy movement between zones.

Tips & Recommendations:

Matching or complementary sofas in durable, stain-resistant fabrics are built to handle high-traffic game days without worry (spills happen—make cleanup effortless)
Sleek sofa tables don’t obstruct sightlines to the TV, keeping the focus where it should be while also providing a sneaky surface area for snacks and more
Swivel accent chairs with cozy ottomans allow guests to pivot between conversation and game-watching, maximizing flexibility in how they engage
Nesting side tables create an easy pull-out spot for drinks and snacks, giving you convenient surface space that tucks away when not needed
A loveseat as an alternative to armchairs for couples or close friends who want cozy, adjacent seating options

3. The Multiple Activity Zone Layout

Not everyone at your party may be glued to the screen—and that’s okay! This layout caters to all types of guests.

How to Arrange It:

Designate one side of the room for adult seating with sofas and chairs facing the TV
Set up the kid zone on the opposite side or in a corner with a play mat, low table, seating, and toy storage
Arrange adult seating so parents have clear sightlines to the children's area
Use an area rug to define the kid zone and contain toys

Tips & Recommendations

Durable, easy-to-clean sofas upholstered with adaptable performance fabrics help resist spills and stains
A kid-sized table and chair set offers the perfect spot for coloring, crafts, or snacks
Storage bench or cube organizer to keep toys contained and accessible
Oversized bean bags or floor cushions that are safe and comfortable for children to relax anywhere they want
A sprawling home theater wall or roomy TV stand with rounded edges and anti-tip hardware for safety in family spaces, plus plenty of storage for media essentials and decor

4. The Kid-Friendly Layout

Don’t forget about your youngest guests! This layout ensures parents can enjoy the game while kids have their own fun.

How to Arrange It:

Create a primary TV-viewing zone with a sofa and recliners angled toward the screen
Establish a secondary conversation area in a corner using chairs arranged in a circle or semi-circle
Position a console table or bar cart between zones to serve as a natural divider and refreshment hub
Ensure both zones have adequate side tables for drinks and plates

Tips & Recommendations:

A modular sectional or sofa set can be separated to define different areas, giving you the flexibility to adapt the space based on your guest count
Recliner or swivel accent chairs with side tables for the conversation zone—consider wingback or club chairs for a sophisticated look that anchors the space
Large dining table or bar cart for food and drinks, doubling as a stylish serving station and a communal eating area
End tables or ottomans for convenient drink placement without taking up precious floor space
Bookshelf, sofa table, or room divider to visually separate zones while maintaining an open feel that keeps the room connected

Watch & Learn: Modern Game Day Spaces

Want to see these game day layout tips in action? Check out our latest episode of Seated with Furniture Row, where Marketing Director Jessa Murphy sits down with Furniture Row veteran Brad to discuss creating the ultimate modern watch party space.

Seated Podcast Gameday Episode thumbnail

In this episode, you'll discover:

Three-zone hosting strategy: Learn how to divide your space for hardcore game watchers, socializers who love the commercials, and kids who need their own entertainment area—giving every guest the perfect spot.
Modern tech features that don't compromise style: Brad and Jessa explore immersive sound systems built into sectionals and motion recliners, as well as hidden features that eliminate cord clutter while maintaining a clean, sophisticated look year-round.
The best seat in the house revealed: Find out why the chaise section wins for serious fans and how modular seating strategies—including sofa tables, loveseats, and flexible configurations—create the most versatile entertaining space.
Performance fabrics that pass the real-world test: See the permanent marker test in action and learn how modern performance fabrics let you host without stress, so you can actually enjoy the party instead of worrying about spills.
Smart furniture features for seamless hosting: Discover chameleon pieces like storage ottomans, wide arms that double as extra seats, and magnetic remote holders that eliminate common hosting frustrations.

Whether you're setting up for the big game or creating a space that entertains all year long, this episode gives you designer-approved strategies that balance comfort, style, and functionality for hosting 15-40 friends and family with ease.

Bring Your Game Day Layout to Life

Whether you’re going Touchdown-Ready, setting up a Head-to-Head showdown, creating multiple hangout zones, or carving out a kid-friendly corner, these quick tips will help your living room feel watch-party ready from kickoff to overtime. Happy arranging!