Whether your style leans towards eclectic, vintage, or modern, we have simple designs for every taste.
Plus, if you're working with a small living area, there are plenty of ideas that shine in compact spaces too.
1. Embrace High-Gloss Finishes
Inject some personality into your living space with striking high-gloss paint. Diane Rath of The Rath Project expertly uses a vibrant blue for her floor-to-ceiling bookshelf while opting for a matte finish on the surrounding walls. This contrast highlights the beauty of the glossy finish, making it a focal point of the room.
2. Incorporate Natural Textures
To achieve a serene, Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere, blend organic materials into your decor. This living space, inspired by Spanish styles, features wooden beams, a plaster fireplace, and earthy accents like a distressed area rug and rattan furniture. This combination invites a sense of calm and relaxation, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.
3. Mix Design Styles
Why limit yourself to just one aesthetic? Take a cue from Teri Pugh Studio and mix contemporary pieces with vintage accents. Pair modern armchairs with retro throw pillows, and combine sleek built-in shelves with antique decor. The result is a dynamic space that feels curated yet comfortable.
4. Opt for Oversized Artwork
Make a statement by hanging large-scale artwork above your sofa, particularly in rooms with high ceilings. This not only draws the eye upward but also adds a touch of drama. Use a color palette that resonates throughout the room to create harmony, like an area rug that echoes the artwork's tones.
5. Create a Warm, Moody Ambiance
For those who prefer a cozier atmosphere, don’t shy away from rich, dark colors. A deep plum sectional against warm-painted walls can evoke a comforting retreat. Complementing elements like wood ceilings and terra-cotta tile floors enhance this inviting vibe, creating a space that wraps you in warmth.
6. Play with Patterns and Textures
Get bold with your decor! Mix various patterns and colors to express your personality. Consider a wallpapered ceiling, moody walls, and a statement lighting fixture. A green couch paired with geometric rugs can create a lively, engaging atmosphere that encourages creativity and conversation.
7. Add Your Personal Touches
If your living room feels lacking, why not craft your own lighting? Hanging wicker baskets from the ceiling can double as stunning light fixtures—simply place wireless LED lights inside. It’s a simple DIY project that adds character without the hassle of electrical work.
8. Nostalgic Touches: Grandma Core
"Grandma Core" is making waves on social media, embracing the charm of vintage home aesthetics. Infuse your living space with this trend by introducing elements like fringed sofas or antique tapestries that bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
9. Light and Bright Spaces
If you’re working with a smaller living room, keeping things light can create the illusion of more space. White walls paired with bright furniture can make the area feel airy and open. Look for multifunctional pieces, like a lift-top coffee table that provides both style and storage.
10. Coastal Chic
For a laid-back, beachy vibe, opt for natural materials and a soothing color palette inspired by the sea. Think light woods, wicker, and shades of blue and beige. This effortless style can transform your living area into a serene escape, reminiscent of a relaxing beach retreat.
11. Refresh with Floral Wallpaper
Inject color and life into your living room with cheerful floral wallpaper. This trend adds a fresh touch and pairs beautifully with an abstract rug and vibrant accent chairs. Think outside the box and consider a bold, oversized floral print that can serve as a conversation starter.
12. Contrasting Bookshelves
Elevate your living room by painting the insides of your bookshelves in a contrasting color. For instance, a light taupe room with navy blue shelves creates a stunning visual pop. This design trick not only adds depth but also ties the entire color palette together with coordinating throw pillows that echo the shelf’s hue.
13. Embrace the Minimalist Coastal Design
If you love the beachy aesthetic, embrace a coastal design that emphasizes light and space. Use natural materials like light woods and wicker, and stick to a nature-inspired palette with bright whites, sandy beiges, and soft blues. This approach brings the essence of coastal living right into your home, fostering a relaxed vibe.
14. Maximize with Floor-to-Ceiling Shelving
Utilize vertical space by installing floor-to-ceiling shelving that acts as both storage and a statement piece. Design firms like JAM have mastered this concept, creating eclectic accent walls filled with books, pottery, and art. By leaving some negative space, you allow standout pieces to shine, making your living room feel curated and personalized.
15. Create a Monochrome Retreat
For a sophisticated and cohesive look, opt for a monochrome color scheme. Choose deep hues for your walls and furniture, such as a rich burgundy or forest green. This approach creates a striking atmosphere, while a neutral area rug can help balance the intensity, making the space feel inviting without overwhelming the senses.
16. Incorporate Statement Lighting
Lighting can transform a room, so don’t underestimate its impact. Opt for bold, statement lighting fixtures that can serve as art pieces themselves. Whether it’s a large chandelier, unique pendant lights, or artistic floor lamps, the right lighting will not only illuminate your space but also elevate your overall decor.
17. Play with Layering Textures
Mix different textures to add depth and interest to your living room. Consider layering a plush area rug over hardwood floors, combining smooth fabrics like velvet and linen in your throw pillows and furniture. This tactile approach invites guests to touch and engage with the space, making it feel warm and inviting.