A living room should not only look great, but also be comfortable and functional – after all, you spend a lot of time there. It can be difficult to combine these three factors, so get inspired by these stylish ideas for spaces of all sizes.
1. Go for a colourful floor
With fresh white walls and neutral furniture a colourful status item fits. It can be anything from a lively work of art on the wall to a brightly coloured rug, as in this living room styled by Leanne Ford Interiors.
2. Redefine neutral
This living room is both unique and versatile, colorful and understated, accessible and impressive. This is thanks to the unique combination of the frames, the light wooden wall, the classic carpet and the unexpectedly colourful sofa. If you prefer more neutral tones but still want to add some colour to your interior, you could consider going for an old pink, moss green or navy blue sofa – these are the new neutral colours.
3. Choose a bold wallpaper
Wallpaper is a trend that always surprises. With classic wallpaper you can go in just about any direction, even if your style changes. This modern self-portrait by Chuck Close provides a bold contrast to the classic chinoiserie wallpaper in this Miles Redd decorated house. The contrast is further enhanced by the combination of deep colours with both antique and modern pieces of furniture.
Source: Housebeautiful4. Striking light accents
Want to add a touch of glamour without making your interior look ostentatious? Then go for minimalist copper-coloured accents, like a glass coffee table with a metal frame, and striking lighting.
5. Modern art
Art is a great way to add a status item to a minimalistic living room. It does not take up any living space, but can totally transform the atmosphere. Match the colors of your accessories to the colors of the artwork.
6. Give your fireplace a makeover
Who says tiles are only for kitchens and bathrooms? Tiling your fireplace gives your living room an artistic, tailor-made look – without dominating it. Especially if you opt for black and white geometric tiles, as in this room designed by Leanne Ford.
7. Stick out your books in style
What could be cozier than a bookcase from floor to ceiling, accompanied by comfortable armchairs you want to crawl into? Give a creative twist to your bookcase using a work of art or library ladder.
8. Create your own art gallery
Besides the stylish dog bed, the gallery wall is a clear eye-catcher in this living room designed by Philip Mitchell. Mix frames for an eclectic and personal result. And speaking of personal, go for art that really means something to you. Whether it’s a drawing of your children, your own artwork or a portrait of your pet.
9. Adopt a fig tree
The fig tree is a clear favourite with interior designers. And not for nothing. It goes great with any interior style or space, from bohemian to modern – like this sleek space styled by Hecker Guthrie. The tree gives a fresh twist to the cool shades of grey and makes the floral cushions stand out even more.
Source: Housebeautiful10. Go for playful
This bright pink fireplace was inspired by the owner’s grandmother’s favourite colour of lipstick, says interior designer Kristen McCory. Let yourself be inspired by small details to create a playful environment. If painting the whole room is too intimidating, choose an accent wall or add colour to your fireplace.
11. Play with shapes
Everything in this living room revolves around form. The marble mantle and shiny floating planks are angular and straight, while the coffee table and footstool have a soft, round shape. The use of natural materials makes the room feel special, despite the fact that there is very little furniture.
12. Suspended chair
Nothing is more fun than a playful touch in your living room, which this retro hanging chair proves. It creates the perfect mix of cozy and cool. The colourful curtains bring the sleek white interior back into balance.
Source: Housebeautiful
