We don't have this problem - I mean, our house is relatively small and our living room is not large compared to the other rooms. I feel that, as an interior designer, it is challenging to bring in the coziness and comfort of a small space into a large one.
In designing a small room, the focus should be on using every square foot of the space and making it functional yet stylish. Meanwhile, a large room has a different set of problems - scaling the furniture to the room, creating multiple seating areas, adding adequate lighting, defining an area for each functionality, and having the right amount of open space. I personally like a lighter wall color on a large wall; otherwise there might be a overdose of a brightness in the room. Apart from the list above, family needs -television watching, gaming center, music area, seating set-up, formal or casual decor, etc., are also important when it comes to designing a living room! Everything put together should eventually turn the space into a room that works for everyone and appeals to most.
I can certainly spot some similar characteristics with each of the rooms below -- sofa's are not against the walls, there is a combination of floor, table, and recess lightings used, there are neutral wall colors, and areas are zoned clearly. I hope you see what I'm seeing in these rooms and like them as much as I do...
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