In this episode of Living Like LK, I’m tackling a super common renter problem: the big, boring, messy “landlord gray” living room that has zero flow and zero personality. Gabriella’s space is long, awkward, and trying to hold a lot of real life—an entry drop zone, a sewing “tornado” workstation, her mom’s Catholic altar, and everyday family living. So instead of telling her to throw everything out, I walk through staged, budget-aware changes she can do over time—starting with function, footpath, and clear zones. I break the room into three main areas (entryway, living zone, and window/work zone) and show how small layout shifts can make the whole space feel calmer and more considered. From moving the Roomba out of the first sightline, to adding hooks/shelves and a shoe solution, to grounding the seating with a rug and pulling the coffee table back where it actually works—these are the kinds of tweaks that stop the clutter loop. Then we get into style: swapping vertical blinds for curtains, updating lamp shades, adding contrast (like a darker sofa cover or intentional blankets), and bringing in texture with layered pillows, art, and thriftable decor so the room feels cozy, eclectic, and curated—without needing a renovation.