Things to Put Behind a Couch

In cramped quarters, its important to use all of the space available but not appear crowded. Available space behind a couch is one place to get creative. Rather than using the space to hide things, create storage space or attractive settings that are pretty and useful. Does this Spark an idea?

Fish Aquarium

A large fish aquarium provides living and breathing colors, plus constantly changing scenes. Set the aquarium on a stand to lift it to the same level as the back of the couch. Fill the tank with colorful fish and natural-colored pebbles and plants. Green plants with touches of red are the most appealing and realistic. Add decorations that suit the size of the tank; decorations that are too small or too big will look out of place. A soft-blue light is visually pleasing and is an effective way to bring out the fish colors and plants.

Credenza or Drop-Leaf Table

An open floor plan often has the couch sitting out in the open rather than against a wall. Use this opportunity to place a credenza against the back of the sofa. Choose a credenza length that allows for about 2 feet of clearance at both ends. Decorate the tabletop to reflect the season or holiday. A digital photo display with family, friends and vacation spots will get a lot of attention on top of a credenza. The credenza top is also a convenient place to set finger foods when entertaining.

Use a drop-leaf table behind the couch in smaller open floor plan. Raise the leaf and use as a quaint eating nook. Decorate the table with a narrow runner and vase of flowers.

Faux Trees

Enjoy the beauty of a real tree without the need to water it. Palms, ferns or ficus trees made with silk leaves are difficult to distinguish from the real thing. Place the plant behind the couch at one end for the illusion of sitting outside. Running a string of tiny white lights throughout the branches and around the trunk adds subtle lighting in the evening.

Book Shelves

Pull the sofa away from the wall enough to fit in a freestanding bookcase. Leave the shelves below the sofa vacant. Fill the shelves that show with books and photos. Get cozy with pillows and a throw, then pick a book off the shelf for a relaxing evening.