The Living Room is by far one of the most-used spaces in a home. It’s the place where your kids play, your landing pad for coming home after a long work day, the destination for movie nights with friends, and the sanctuary where you gather together as family to open gifts on Christmas morning. Because this space serves so many purposes, designing it well is key. As always, before beginning any design project, you should understand your design style. Whether it’s modern, traditional, bohemian or contemporary chic, knowing your style will be the guide for selecting everything for your living room.

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Color

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is basing their color palette around one single color. This can often happen if you are too focused on making everything match in your space. My advice when selecting your color palette is to first get inspiration on how you want your space to feel. Colors make us feel differently and this fact shouldn’t be ignored. Next, create a palette of 3-4 colors with at least two of those being neutrals. This is the point where you can now consider that beautiful blue sofa you are dying to incorporate into your space. One piece of furniture or one floor color can inspire your design choices but it shouldn’t drive them.

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Lighting

Lighting can make a world of difference in any space. With most living rooms, however, natural light is abundant and provides the most important source of light. However, there are still a number of important lighting choices you should focus on for the living space: ambient, task and accent lighting. Ambient lighting is natural light from the outdoors or light that comes in from other spaces. Task lighting is lighting that is added to achieve a specific task; in the living room, this task can be anything from reading to playing a game. This is often achieved through recess or can lighting that are on dimmer switches and can be adjusted based on need. Finally, accent lighting which is provided through floor lamps,  table lamps, some ceiling-hung fixtures and wall sconces. Accent lighting simply helps make a space feel more comfortable and inviting. It eliminates having solely harsh, overhead lighting and adds different levels for a better vibe in your room.

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Texture

Not using textures is another big mistake I see people make when designing their living room. Texture brings visual interest and warmth to a space. And after all, isn’t the main point of a living room to be warm and inviting? Plush and soft textures are the two most important in the living room. However, just as important is their contrasting materials which are hard materials. Incorporating textures is easier than most people think. Area rugs, furniture, pillows, wall covering, window treatments, and even ceilings can be places where you bring in texture. Accessories are the best way to achieve texture if you’re working with furniture and finishes that you already have. They are affordable and can easily be changed out down the road.

In the image below, notice the number of textures used: the accent wall covering, the fireplace grate, the marble coffee table, the velvet sofa, the plush rug, the wooden shelves, the natural greenery, and the smooth glass side table. All of these textures are working together to provide the room with interest and contrast; to make it feel comfy and inviting.

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Rugs

Are you considering using an area rug in your living room? Yes, even on carpet, area rugs are a great idea! When used properly, area rugs can add depth, color, pattern and texture to your space. Area rugs can also help distinguish one space from another, like with an open concept space. However, the most important detail to keep in mind when selecting your rug is size. If too small of a rug is used, it can make your space feel cramped and disjointed. My advice is to make sure all your furniture can comfortably sit on the area rug with at least 10-20 inches of bare floor between the rug and the walls of the room.

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Measurements

Understanding the size of your space is important for every selection you make. From paint color to furniture, make sure you compliment the size of your space by making selections that look intentional. Lower ceilings mean you should use lower sitting furniture to make your space feel bigger. Likewise, lower ceilings should be complemented with a light color on the walls and ceiling to make the overall space feel bigger. There are also general guidelines for lamp height, window treatment length, rug size, and even down to your T.V.. No rules are set in stone, but it will benefit your space to keep these guidelines in hand when making selections.

Some General Guidelines

Table Lamp Height: Approx. 58-62” above the floor. A taller table means a shorter lamp

Floor Lamp Height: 58-62” above the floor. The base of the lampshade shouldn’t be lower than someone seated.

Free Hanging Curtains: 1/2” from the floor to allow for cleaning.

Curtain Rod: 4-12” above the top of the window. The higher the better, as it makes the walls in the space feel taller.

Rug Size: 10-20” of bare floor from end of rug to the edge of walls. Ensure all your furniture can comfortably sit on the rug.

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Layout

No two living rooms function the same, your family is unique and your needs for the living space are as well. Before laying out the furniture in your space, consider what functions will take place here. Is there a TV on one wall? Will it be a more formal living room for conversation only? Is there an odd angle that will consider some special attention? Once you have thought through these considerations, assess these two popular living room layouts to figure out which will serve your homes’ needs.

Comfy Corner
This layout is best for living spaces that include an L-shaped sofa or sectional. Visually, this creates a cozy corner perfect for lounging. It can also help direct attention to a fireplace or TV if there is one in the space. The sofa helps delineate  a specified lounging area vs. chairs or other seats in the room that will say “seat” more then “lounge”. This is the best layout choice if you desire a space that feels laid-back and relaxing where people can put their feet up and watch sports.

Conversation Central
An ideal layout for those who prefer to use their living space as a room for hosting and socializing. The furniture is set up in a circle, spaced comfortably to allow for easy conversation. This layout can also be used in a room with a TV, but helps encourage the focus on others sitting in the room.  Another bonus that this layout provides is the ability to pull in more chairs when needed for additional guests. When not being used, these chairs can be placed in another part of the home to avoid a crowded living space.

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