We often take our living areas for granted and over time they can look a little tired and worn. Whether they be a place where you relax, binge your favourite show, or connect with friends and family, creating a living space that is comfortable and stylish is achievable. Here are our top tips to give your living room a makeover:
- PLAY AROUND WITH YOUR LAYOUT
I like to experiment with different furniture arrangements to find the perfect setup that suits your lifestyle. Consider the flow of conversation, the focal point for TV viewing, and ensure there’s a seat for everyone, including your furry friends. A well-thought-out layout increases functionality and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
- MIX + MATCH FURNITURE
I love to Inject personality into your space by mixing up coffee tables, side tables, and ottomans. Don’t be afraid to get creative and swap pieces between rooms to keep things fresh and exciting. Incorporating different furniture in different shapes, textures and colours adds character to your living room.
- EMBRACE SMART STORAGE SOLUTIONS
Storage is my secret weapon in any home. It really is true what they say about visual clutter leading to mental overwhelm so in the living room, I like to maximise storage options to keep clutter at bay and maintain a sense of calm. If you have built-in cabinetry, organise the space into categories allowing a drawer or cupboard for tech gadgets, children’s toys, and decorative pieces. For those with limited storage, invest in multifunctional furniture like entertainment units or sideboards paired with stylish bookshelves and strategically placed baskets.
- CONSIDERED LIGHTING
Lighting can really impact the mood and energy of a space, so I work on a lighting plan that combines natural light during the day with ambient lighting in the evening. I try and maximise daylight exposure by keeping windows unobstructed and complement it with table lamps or floor lamps for reading nooks and accentuate special art pieces with directional lighting.
- LAYER TEXTURE AND SOFT FURNISHINGS
I often find this is an area people neglect, but you can elevate the look and comfort level of your living room by layering textures and soft furnishings. I always have a variety of cushions, throws, blankets, and rugs to add depth and dimension to your space. I rotate through different looks in line with the seasons using heavier textures in the colder months and lighter textures like linens in the warmer times.
- ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH
We spend so much time in our living rooms, they really are the perfect place to add sentimental pieces, family photographs, or curated art pieces that you can enjoy. My only advice is to do it sparingly, pick a few of your favourites to showcase and then rotate through your pieces.
- CONNECT TO NATURE
While keeping plants alive is not my strength, I love indoor plants in a living space or at least being able to see greenery from the window. There is something both energising and calming about it. I bet you didn’t know some plants even assist with absorption of the electromagnetic radiation so choosing succulents and cacti which are easier to look after can also be beneficial for our health!
- SMELLS AND SOUNDS
My design philosophy around this one is that often it’s the scent of a room or the music playing that can draw you into a space. Having a few different scents in the form of room sprays, candles, burners, or diffusers allows you to create different moods conducive to whatever activity is happening in the space. When relaxing, reading, or having visitors over, pick a soundtrack that helps create the mood, both these elements are often underutilised in bringing life into a space, yet they can have a significant impact.
Why not take the opportunity to reimagine your living room the next time you have a free weekend and create a beautiful functional living room that improves your home life.
