First Published: 12th November 2022, written by Olivia Doonan | Last Updated on 6th April 2024 | Reviewed and Edited by Chloe Safilo
When it comes to interior design, there are no hard and fast rules – you can create a living room that perfectly suits your unique personality and style, as long as you keep a few basic principles in mind.
Therefore, let’s look at the six tips for creating the living room of your dreams.
Start by defining your style
Do you prefer a more formal living room or a cosy, inviting space? Are there certain colours or patterns that you are drawn to? Once you have defined your style, it will be much easier to choose furniture, window treatments, and accessories that fit your vision.
For instance, if you love the idea of a formal living room, you might choose to invest in a beautiful crystal chandelier and luxurious draperies. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, you might opt for comfortable sofas and relaxed Roman shades.
Window treatments are a must
Whether you want to achieve a formal or casual look, window treatments are a necessary part of any living room design. They not only add colour and style, but they also provide privacy and insulation.
Depending on the amount of natural light you want to let in, you might choose sheer curtains or blinds, or opt for something opaque like velvet drapes. You can also add interest by using folding shutters, hanging the drapes at different lengths, or using different textures and colours. Shutters are also a good option if you live in an area with a lot of sun and heat, as they will help to keep your living room cool.
Furniture should be comfortable and functional
Your living room furniture should be comfortable enough for you to want to spend time there, but it should also be functional enough for you to use it. For instance, if you have a small living room, you might want to opt for a sofa and armchair instead of a large sectional.
And if you often have guests over, you might want to consider investing in a sofa bed or futon. Of course, comfort is subjective, so make sure to try out any furniture before you buy it to make sure it’s the right fit for you.
Accessories are the finishing touch
Once you have your furniture and window treatments in place, it’s time to accessorize. This is where you can let your style shine through.
If you love art, consider hanging some interesting pieces on the walls. If you’re a fan of books, fill up an empty bookshelf with your favourites. And if you love to entertain, make sure your living room is equipped with everything you need, from coasters and wine glasses to hors d’oeuvres plates and serving utensils.
You can also add interest by mixing and matching different colours, textures, and patterns. Just make sure not to go overboard – too many accessories can make a room look cluttered and chaotic.
Layer the lighting
Lighting is an important part of any room, but it’s especially important in the living room. After all, this is where you’ll be spending most of your time, so you want to make sure it’s well-lit.
In addition to overhead lighting, consider adding lamps or sconces for task lighting and ambiance. You can also use candles, which are not only beautiful but also add a warm and inviting glow to any room.
Additionally, consider layering the lighting by using light dimmers. This way, you can create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing at home.
Add some green
Plants are a great way to add colour, texture, and life to any room. They can also help to purify the air, so they’re a win-win!
If you don’t have a green thumb, don’t worry – there are plenty of low-maintenance options out there. Succulents and cacti are perfect for those who want to add a bit of greenery without having to worry about watering them too often.
Or, if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, you might want to consider a potted tree or large plant. Just make sure to choose a spot that gets enough light and has good drainage.
There are a lot of ways to decorate the living room of your dreams, and the six tips we’ve provided should give you a good starting point. Of course, it’s important to remember that these are just suggestions – feel free to mix and match them however you like to create a look that’s perfect for you.
Just make sure to follow basic design principles, like choosing furniture that’s both comfortable and functional and layering the lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. And don’t forget to accessorize – this is your chance to let your personality shine through.
With a little bit of effort, you’ll have a living room that you’ll love spending time in.