Inspiration rooms for decorating
65 Best Living Room Decorating Ideas & Designs
1
Enhance a Bakyard View
Gordon Beall
Working with landscape architect Lila Fendrick, designer Nestor Santa Cruz chose a wall of steel and glass windows and doors for this formal pool house living room that leads to the backyard. Though the glass decor, from the pendant light to the coffee table and doors, leaves a decidedly sleek impression, the plush rug and ethereal curtains make it extra cozy, too.
2
Work Around Restrictions
Karyn Millet
When designer Celerie Kemble moved into this New York City apartment, there was only one thing that prevented it from being the perfect fit: The building had a no wallpaper rule. To work around that obstacle, she applied a light shade of pink paint in a plaster-like finish that channels the texture of wallpaper.
3
Mix Clean Lines With Casual Materials
Nicolas Gourguechon
In the living room of designer Devin Kirk, a light shade of blue-gray along with clean-lined furniture makes for a polished backdrop while the woven chairs, light wood side table, and tree stump coffee table ensure a laidback atmosphere. It's the perfect balance of approachable and formal.
4
Incorporate Fun Trees and Plants
Read McKendree
Invite some nods to nature into your living room with quirky indoor plants and trees. Designer Elizabeth Cooper placed a lush citrus tree in the corner for an extra pop of life and color and then staggered topiaries on the windowsill.
5
Create Zones With Area Rugs
Laure Joliet
This sitting room is right off the open kitchen, so designer Regan Baker decided to visually separate it with a custom sectional and area rug.
A cleek armchair is positioned at a diagonal, establishing a nice balanced whole.
6
Add Personality With Texture-Rich Neutrals
Stephen Kent Johnson / OTTO
A quirky indoor tree is s fun surprise in this polished and cosmopolitan living room designed by Shawn Henderson. And, instead of a classic white or warm off-white paint color, he opted for a cooler gray neutral that complements the other subtle tones throughout the room. This also allows the texture-rich accents to shine.
7
Extend It Outdoors
Stacy Zarin Goldberg
This vacation home in Maui, Hawaii blends indoor and outdoor living beautifully. Designed by Breeze Giannasio Interiors, the two living spaces are connected by a sliding door that simply disappears when open for total connection between the open-air terrace and the indoor living room.
The materials, colors, and fabrics are all coordinated for visual flow, too.
8
Transform a Generic Space With Texture
Gieves Anderson
If you live in a generic rental or simply have a small space, get inspired by this living room designed by David Frazier. Not only does it prove that size isn't everything, but it's also full of tricks that bring more dimension to otherwise simple architecture. Pops of marigold speak to the warm antique wood pieces and break up the monochromatic color scheme and the large rice paper pendant keeps things casual so it can function as a more relaxed family room. A gallery wall, large indoor plant, and ceiling-high curtain rod add depth.
Check out Society6 for affordable and stylish prints and artwork to jazz up your walls.
9
Get Weird On the Coffee Table
Romanek Design Studio
Instead of decorating your coffee table with the classic assortment of stacked coffee table books, opt for something subtly quirky and unique.
Here, Romanek Design Studio covered the surface with a collection of classic pots and planters, which both enhance and juxtapose the formal, traditional elements throughout the space as well as the more modern ones, making for a fun and eclectic yet timeless sprawl.
Check out Terrain for all your indoor and outdoor gardening needs.
10
Swap High Back Seating for Daybeds and Benches
Frank Frances Studio
Bring in extra seating with daybeds, settees, and window seats in smaller spaces. They have lower back profiles, which prevents interrupting the visual flow and also keeps the space feeling open. We're loving the pop of yellow in this bold living room by Courtney McLeod.
Check out Albany Park for great living room seating options.
11
Redefine "Neutrals"
Nicole Franzen
If you don't love playing with tons of patterns and bold hues but appreciate experimental pieces and tasteful pops of color, take notes on this living room.
Rather than opting for all black and whites, the anchor pieces—like sofa and tables—remain neutral, while the throws, artwork and lamp offer just a splash of color (nothing too crazy: just marigold, red, navy, and green).
Check out Design Within Reach for iconic design pieces.
12
Carve Out a Home Bar
Stacy Zarin Goldberg
In this living room designed by Carmel Greer, the paint color (Peach Blossom by Benjamin Moore) and casual jute rug set a sweet foundation while the modern, angular artwork, right fixture, seating, and throw blanket bring an edge. One built-in niche is optimized to function as a full-on home bar station while the other stores and displays firewood. The mirrored wall within the left niche also helps bounce light and gives it a swanky nightclub vibe.
Check out Huckberry for great home barware.
13
Add Something Unexpected
Heather Hilliard
While the classic blue grasscloth wallpaper, floor lamp, and curtains set the stage for a traditional living room, designer Heather Hilliard added some unexpectedly edgy elements.
The floral sofa and the green lucite coffee table are a welcome surprise that break up the classic elements without overshadowing them.
Check out Kartell for cool lucite furniture.
14
Conceal Your TV
Nicole Franzen
This neutral-toned living room by Kristin Fine is refined and grown-up, but also family-friendly. The soft and textural upholstery mixed with cream paint, rustic wood pieces, and plenty of antique accents are partially to thank, but there's also a large television mounted to the wall for family movie marathons. Fine gave it prime over-the-mantel placement but discretely tucked behind panels that double as modern art.
Check out Samsung for clever tech television designs.
15
Restore Existing Moldings
Jared Kuzia Photography
To complement the restored wood accents in this Boston Colonial Revival, designer Cecilia Casagrande on a deep, rich shade of blue-green paint: Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue.
She then mixed contemporary elements with more traditional ones to further play with that juxtaposition between old and new design trends.
Check out Farrow & Ball for both timeless and cutting-edge paint colors.
16
Incorporate Indoor Trees and Plants
Space Content Studio
Spruce up your empty corners with large indoor plants and trees. Atelier ND and Carice Van Houten used a variety of species to create visual intrigue with different heights and shapes. It really freshens up the rich jewel and earth tones.
Check out The Sill for beautiful indoor plants and garden essentials.
17
Paint the Ceiling
Emily Followill
Designer Meredith McBrearty painted the ceiling light blue (she used the same shade in various rooms throughout the house, creating a continuous design thread), which adds an unexpected personality.
The warm tones featured in the furniture contrast nicely.
Check out Benjamin Moore for endless colors of high-quality paint.
18
Upholster the Walls
Kevin Dumais
Though classic and timeless, this living room by interior designer Kevin Dumais is also having tons of fun. From the red-painted ceiling to the velvet floor cushions for extra seating and the bold artwork, no detail is overlooked. To make the room feel even more soft and intimate, Dumais upholstered the walls in a leather fabric.
Check out Crate & Barrel for family-friendly staples.
19
Go Wild With Fun Fabrics
Paul Raeside
This eclectic living room designed by Montreal-based Les Ensembliers is making a case for a unique layout and wild fabric use.
The sofas are all configured at an angle to break up the monotony of a classic, symmetrical living room, and all the fun, luxe fabrics warm up the open and airy space. Aesthetically, it's refreshing and unique, which in turn, gives the formal sitting room unpretentious, fun energy that inspires creativity and puts guests at ease.
Check out Kravet for tons of fabulous designer fabrics perfect for your upholstery projects.
20
Keep It Classic and Crisp
Heather Hilliard Design
A crisp, matte white living room is pristine, elegant, and timeless. Adding glass and metallic features sharpens up the white pieces. Sherwin-Williams Pure White is there for you when you don't just want to experiment with trends anymore.
Check out Wayfair for all your home decor needs, from staples to accents.
21
Make It Cheerful
Anna Spiro Design
From the playful pillows and ottoman to the elegant gilt mirror and bright blue walls, this space by Anna Spiro Design is perfect for low-key nights in, or more formal gatherings.
And the pleated yellow lamp is what really makes the living room feel cheerful and cozy.
Check out 45 Three Modern Vintage Home for fun, one-of-a-kind vintage lighting options.
22
Use an Off-White
Heidi Caillier Design
In this eclectic living room designed by Heidi Caillier, the jute rug, wood finishes, and brass accents bring plenty of warmth to ensure a cozy, inviting space. The colorful contrasting prints throughout contribute to the playful yet formal spirit of the room, too. And though it doesn't necessarily stand out, the cream paint color makes a transformative difference. White would be much starker.
Check out Serena & Lily for fun yet classic throw pillows.
23
Know Your Place
PHOTO: Felix Forest; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke
Before you even start decorating your living room, remember where you are.
(If you live in a casual beach house, your design scheme is going to look very different from that of an urban industrial loft space, for instance.) In this beach house by Arent & Pyke, the design team focused on channeling the tropical vibe of a coastal home through fun motifs and casual materials. Yet, they still maintained a look of sophistication through fresh upholstery, beautiful artwork, and a thoughtful layout. That being said, if you're a sucker for kitsch and wish you were always on island time, add a hint of it with one statement piece, like a vintage Hawaiian-print rattan chair.
Check out Serena & Lily for coastal-inspired pieces.
24
Hang a Chair
Romanek Design Studio
Nothing ramps up the fun like a playful touch in the family room. This hanging chair in a living room designed by Romanek Design Studio proves our point—but the handsome leather upholstery also ensures a more sophisticated look.
It's the perfect blend of cozy and cool.
Check out Modshop for groovy retro-inspired pieces.
25
Have Fun With Throw Pillows
Studio Razavi
Here's a lesson in monochromatic decorating with soul. Designed by Studio Razavi, this Parisian apartment is a beautiful blend of modern and Neoclassical style. While the bones of the room evoke a grand sort of opulence, the plush Moroccan rug and spacious white sofa make the space feel more approachable.
Check out Wayfair for endless options of decorative pillows.
26
Choose A Bold Wallpaper
Roland Bello
Wallpaper is one of those trends that just keeps on giving and giving. If you go with a classic chinoiserie wallpaper, you can do just about anything with it as your style changes over the year.
This modern self portrait by Chuck Close is a bold contrast to the chinoiserie wallpaper (Iksel's Eastern Eden) behind it in this Miles Redd–designed home. The contrast doesn't stop there: Redd continued to venture beyond design convention by incorporating contrasting jewel tones and mixing modern furniture styles with antique pieces. Oh—and believe it or not, the lime green chair is from Ikea! Proof even the best designers love a good deal.
Check out Anthropologie for bold wallpaper prints.
27
Bring the Fun to the Floor
PHOTO: Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors
When you have crisp white walls and neutral staples, like a sofa and coffee table, choose one statement item that brings in a surge of colorful energy. It can be anything from a vibrant piece of art on the walls to a bright carpet like this one in a living room designed by Leanne Ford Interiors.
Check out Homestead Seattle for colorful, one-of-a-kind rugs.
28
Bring Some Texture to the Walls
Gail Davis Design
If you love the soft look and feel of upholstered walls but don't want to embark on that major of a project (you'll need to install padding, etc.), then try a fabric-effect wallpaper or a grasscloth. In this living room by Gail Davis Design, it suits the warm leather and brass pieces wonderfully, while the blue painted accents cool things off.
Check out Gooddee for tons of modern and unique living room items.
29
Branch Away From Neutrals
Laure Joliet
Designed by Redmond Aldrich Design, this living room manages to be unique and versatile, colorful and understated, approachable and impressive, all at once.
That's thanks to the quirky, eclectic mix of frames, a light wood-paneled wall, a classic carpet, and an unexpectedly colorful sofa. If you typically like to stick to more neutral tones at home but find yourself generally drawn to color, consider venturing out with a dusty rose, forest green, or navy piece—they're the new neutrals.
Check out Article for sofas that feature classic silhouettes and moderately experimental colors.
30
Install Statement Lighting Overhead
Jaokim Johansson for Fantastic Frank
Want to go a little glam without looking too showy? Add in minimal brass accents, like a metal-frame coffee table and eye-catching metallic lighting. This living room is also a good blueprint for small space decorating. While the only three furniture items are two seats and a small coffee table, the ceiling light is all it takes to make the entire room feel special.
Check out CB2 for on-trend and affordable lighting options.
31
Hang Modern Art
Nicole Franzen
Wall art is a great way to add a big statement in a minimalist living room. It doesn't take up any surface space, but it can really transform the aesthetic. Use an abstract photograph like this one to dictate the colors of your throw pillows for cohesion.
Check out Tappan Collective for cutting-edge art.
32
Consider Your Surroundings
Studio Razavi
In this modern mountain home designed by architecture firm Studio Razavi, the classic cabin aesthetic gets an upgrade. The plush carpeting and sheepskin throw warm things up while the modern light fixture, streamlined furniture, and neutral colors ensure a calming, laidback, and stylish environment.
Check out IKEA for plush and affordable accessories.
33
Spruce Up Your Fireplace
PHOTO: Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors
Who says backsplashes are just for your kitchen? Try tiling your fireplace. It adds an artful, customized touch to the living room without being overpowering. This is especially true if you opt for neutral or black and white geometric tiles, as in this Leanne Ford–designed space.
Check out Lowes for tons of mosaic tiles.
34
Mix and Match Patterns
Björn Wallander
The sofa in Apartment Therapy founder Maxwell Ryan's living room is a prime example of perfectly mismatched patterns. The couch maintains a tonal blue scheme, and the blue rug beneath it ties the whole look together. It's a great way to practice your pattern mixing if you're not ready to work with the entire rainbow yet.
Check out ABC Carpet & Home for beautiful textiles and throws.
35
Take Advantage of All Useable Space
Werner Straube
A formal living room can be full of fun and personality, too. Interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins sets the bar with a glam pendant light, marble fireplace, and plenty of luxe touches, like the emerald green velvet sofa. And it optimizes all useable space, thanks to a built-in bench between the fireplace and window niche.
Check out Etsy for handmade cushions, custom throw pillows, and art supplies to rework at home.
36
Pick Comfy Seating
Studio Razavi
Designed by Studio Razavi, this eclectic Parisian apartment is a breath of fresh air. Not only does it prove that you can use a wallpaper mural in a minimalist environment (the grayscale color palette helps), but it's also the perfect example of how to design a living room that's both fun and relaxed, sophisticated and formal.
The key? Seating needs to be comfortable, and materials need to be casual but clean.
Check out RH for high-quality, comfortable, and timeless seating.
37
Display Books in Style
Lisa Romerein
"The room doesn't get a lot of light, so I decided to make it cozy and turned it into an English-style portrait room, which is ridiculous, but fun," says celebrity chef Alex Hitz. Taking the cozy route in a living room without a ton of natural light is a great solution. And what's cozier than a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf with seating beckoning you to curl up on it? To display your books more creatively, offset them with artwork. In this room, a Peter Rogers portrait of Alex Hitz's close friend, the late Nan Kempner, hangs over the bookshelves to create some contrast.
Check out Design Within Reach for stylish and modern wall storage options.
38
Encourage Conversation
PHOTO: Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors
If you frequently entertain guests at your home, choose a strategic living room layout that promotes conversation and comfort. For example, this living room designed by Leanne Ford Interiors incorporates semi-circle seating that's both spacious and inviting. Sectionals are also a good option when a circular sofa isn't. And if you love the all-white aesthetic, take note: Ford brush-painted the natural Ikea rug and custom-made rope light.
Check out Crate & Barrel for spacious, family-friendly sectionals.
39
Go All Out With a Gallery Wall
ANNIE SCHLECHTER
Aside from the adorable dogs (Jacob and Wylo) cuddled up on the armchair-meets-dog-bed, that gallery wall is the clear statement-maker in this living room designed by Philip Mitchell.
Mix and match frames for a subtle nod of personality. And speaking of personal touches, consider hanging art that means something to you—whether it's your children's artwork, your own, or a portrait of your pets.
Check out Framebridge for custom framing with tons of stylish options.
40
Double It's Function
David Tsay
Double your living room's function by investing in practical, multi-purpose furniture. Here, in a space by Justina Blakeney, the console table also functions as a fold-out desk. But it's not all work—there's definitely room for play, from the lush plants to the fun details, and colorful patterns throughout.
Check out Jungalow for beautiful bohemian accents and essentials.
41
Choose Timeless Anchors
PHOTO: Felix Forest; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke
A black marble fireplace strikes the perfect balance between edgy and timeless.
It anchors this living room designed by Arent & Pyke, which get a contemporary lift from the jute rug, modern and bright artwork, and shapely table lamp. And because the armchairs are a classic silhouette, they'll last forever—you can reupholster them with different colors and prints throughout the years as your taste and style change.
Check out Chairish for vintage and timeless investment chairs.
42
Be Playful
Christopher Delaney
This hot-pink fireplace was inspired by the homeowners' grandmother's favorite shade of lipstick, interior designer Kristen McCory tells us. Have fun with little details like that and look for inspiration everywhere! If painting your entire living room a bold color sounds intimidating, opt for a statement wall or mantle.
Check out Home Depot for a range of fresh color options.
43
Make Things Easy On Yourself
PHOTO: Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors
Make it easy on yourself by sticking to a very consistent, very simple color scheme.
In this space by Leanne Ford Interiors, the designer worked within a strictly all-white color story. Even the firewood is painted white! We'll let that be a lesson in attention to detail. Then choose one item to really pop in a bright color. In this case, Ford went with a bright-red Pierre Paulin Ribbon chair.
Check out Farrow & Ball for beautiful high-quality interior paints.
44
Use Your Favorite Color
FRANCESCO LAGNESE
Color stretches all the way up to the high rafters in this living room designed by Thomas Jayne and William Cullum. As you can see in the mirror, the hue of the wall changes depending on the way the light hits it, shifting between sharp mint green and soft sea-foam green. The red and blue work nicely, too, as the red is featured in the carpet, coffee table, and sofas, blending everything together beautifully. All together, the room feels traditional and formal, country chic and casual.
To elongate your already tall ceilings, hang a pendant light high above the sitting area.
Check out Target for tons of contemporary light fixtures.
45
Make It Gallery-Worthy
Nicole Franzen
Everything in this living room is playing with shape. While the marble mantle and glossy floating shelves are angular and sharp, the coffee table and ottoman are soft and rounded. The use of natural materials makes the room feel rich even though there's not much in it.
Check out Amara for tons of modern and unique living room items.
46
Take Advantage of High Ceilings
Romanek Design Group
In this stylish, comfortable, and elevated living room by Romanek Design Studio, the off-white feels bright and airy while also warming things up and bringing it to a human scale (a cool white might be too stark, especially in a large, open room with high ceilings).
Accent with soft textures and a few pops of color plus a tall plant or tree for an energizing contrast.
Check out Gooddee for tons of modern and unique living room items.
47
Set Up a Library Ladder
Victoria Pearson
The bookshelves in photographer Victoria Pearson's own Ojai living room allow all kinds of opportunities for displaying different items, and also for storage. Adding a ladder for high shelves adds another decorative touch.
Check out AllModern for leaning bookshelves and ladders.
48
Play With Shape and Color
Studio DB
The more distinct, the bigger the statement when it comes to wall decor and art. A good way to switch things up is by choosing artwork that doesn't live within the confines of a rectangular or square frame.
We're also loving the colorful nesting coffee tables and ombre carpet, which add a little fun to this living room designed by Studio DB.
Check out Minted for accessible and fun artwork.
49
Work With What You Have
PHOTO: Reid Rolls; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors
This floor-to-ceiling fireplace in a living room designed by Leanne Ford takes style notes from the best of both worlds: a classic mountain chalet and the Malibu coast. Whether there's snow falling or waves crashing right outside that window, we want to be curled up on that linen slip-covered chair. This living room is also a testament to the perks of working with what you have. The fireplace was given a new life with a makeshift mantle comprised of reclaimed wood and a fresh coat of white paint.
Check out Etsy for found objects and art supplies to rework at home.
50
Paint Your Walls a New Color
2LG Studio
"Soft pink was used here as a neutral base, which connects all the other elements throughout the space," say the design duo behind 2LG Studio.
"We designed bespoke plywood joinery throughout to unite the spaces and create much needed storage," they add. If you're bored of looking at stark white walls, try a soft color that can function as a neutral but exciting backdrop.
Check out Portola Paints for one-of-a-kind paint colors.
51
Make It Double-Duty
Studio DB
If your formal living room is also your family room, you want to make sure it strikes a balance between super comfortable and presentable—a cozy family room that cleans up nicely, if you will. A super soft sectional with plenty of space to spread out on movie night is a must, but choose one that also looks elegant. Then add fun, eye-catching lighting for an extra punch of fun, like the one in this Studio DB-designed room.
Check out HD Buttercup for unique and practical living room furniture.
52
Pair Unexpected Colors
Paul Raeside
Who says everything has to be matchy-matchy? Contrast your couch and chairs to make things a bit more interesting.
In this refreshingly quirky living room designed by Andrew Flesher, there's a little bit of everything—from jewel tones and tropical prints to classic prep school patterns, rustic accents, and traditional touches.
Check out Burke Decor for fun, on-trend patterns.
53
Shrink It Down
Jaokim Johansson for Fantastic Frank
Live in a super tiny space? Opt for a settee instead of a sofa or sectional and stack nesting tables instead of getting a bulky coffee table. You'll be surprised at much space this can save. And instead of spending a fortune on framing, simply pin up your favorite artwork as is. The easy elegance can be just as beautiful.
Check out West Elm for great apartment-friendly furniture.
54
Make It Relaxing
PHOTO: Lauren Bamford; DESIGN: Robson Rak
The clean lines throughout this living room designed by Robson Rak are making a small but mighty difference.
From the white paneled walls to the black-trimmed window and modern angular yet plush sofa, the linear motif is super easy on the eyes. And we love how the green nesting tables bring in some round contrast without clashing. For a similarly calming aesthetic, choose light colors and modern, low-to-the-ground furniture. Then splice in contemporary decorative objects to add personality. And bonus points if your living room has a lot of access to natural light.
Check out Finnish Design Shop for contemporary and tasteful accent pieces.
55
Paint the Ceiling
David A. Land
Why only have fun on the walls when you can have even more fun with a statement ceiling? We're loving the romantic yet surprisingly fresh color combination of fire-engine red and violet in this space by Katie Brown. The bohemian embroidered throw pillows tie everything together nicely. That's another great way to approach the living room design process: Start with a fun pair of throw pillows, and then pull out your two favorite colors to highlight on the walls and ceiling.
Check out H&M Home for fun and affordable throw pillows.
56
Take a Risk
Catherine Kwong Design
Rather than focusing exclusively on the walls in this grand San Francisco living room, designer Catherine Kwong brought the abstract art onto the floors. With broad white brushstrokes on the black-stained hardwood, these floors are a gorgeous juxtaposition against the Neoclassical ceiling and antique mirror above the fireplace. The key to mixing all these divergent design aesthetics is to remain in the same grayscale color scheme. Pro tip: wall sconces always add a subtle but transformative finishing touch.
Check out Frances & Son for hip and classic lighting options.
57
Add a Rocking Chair
Trevor Tondro
Chairs that look good but are totally uncomfortable? Not worth the cute factor.
Besides, here's definitive proof that rocking chairs can actually be super chic. The camel leather contrasts perfectly with the cream wall and plays up the old-time-y rustic feel of the reclaimed wood mantle.
Check our Urban Outfitters for hip, fun, and affordable staples.
58
Remember That Less Is More
PHOTO: Shannon McGrath; DESIGN: Robson Rak
An understated palette means you can focus on incredible interior architecture and dramatic statement pieces. Who says minimalists are afraid of color? Just pick one hue and a few select essentials, like in this modern blue living room designed by Robson Rak. The soothing tones and bulbous shapes throughout, from the marble side table to the bubble pendant light and rounded sofa, make it feel like a hug in the form of a living room.
Check out Moda Operandi for designer-approved accents.
59
Add Candles
Francesco Lagnese
Can you imagine how beautiful this room looks glowing in the candlelight? Opt for a chandelier with candles instead of lightbulbs for a rustic vibe.
Or, if that's not an option, display them on your mantel and light them up when you need to strike a romantic mood. (Use flameless candles to play it safe).
Check out Amazon for reliable and pretty basics.
60
Set Up a Few Sitting Areas
Annie Schlechter
This rustic great room was built to resemble a converted barn. If you're blessed with a large enough open plan living room, set up multiple sitting areas: one for hanging and snacking (a bistro table can break up the lower height of the other sitting areas), one for cuddling up with a good book, and one for formal entertaining.
Check out YLighting for great staple items in a variety of styles.
61
Choose An Oversized Pendant
Nicole Franzen
If your room has a more minimalist vibe, try an oversized, Noguchi-inspired paper pendant.
But take note: If your furniture is large and clunky, or you have a lot of busy decor, it could overwhelm it. The best part? Rice lantern pendant lights like the one in this living room designed by Space Exploration Design are super affordable.
Check out Paper Lantern Store for all your rice paper lighting needs.
62
Consider Black and Add Flowers
Maura McEvoy
Designer Kristin Kong hid a door to the basement behind millwork painted in Sherwin-Williams Black Fox in her home near Atlanta. The trick "makes the room look less choppy,” she says, since the dark color helps everything blend together. And never underestimate the power of a beautiful flower arrangement on the coffee table!
Check out Cost Plus World Market for fun and affordable accessories.
63
Elongate the Ceiling
Courtesy of Nicole Franzen
Blend neutral gray walls with sleek, modern furniture and lighting.
It'll look chic rather than dated. A velvet throw pillow will add a nice iridescent flare, too. Also, pro tip: hang your curtains at the tippy-top of your walls to make the ceilings seem higher.
Check out CB2 for contemporary and versatile hardware.
64
Go Shiplap Crazy
Trevor Tondro
To up the farmhouse vibes, install shiplap. Joanna Gaines would totally approve. Then add something metallic, like a coffee table, for some unexpected bling.
Check out Joss & Main for fun and bold pieces.
65
Keep It Simple
Christopher Baker
This living room is simple, clean-lined, and inviting, with a little bit of glamour and a lot of comfort. To highlight the architectural details, the moldings are painted in high-gloss white.
Check out Apartment 2B for clean and classic furniture.
Hadley Mendelsohn Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful's senior design editor and the co-host and executive producer of the podcast Dark House.
50 Inspirational Living Room Ideas
Decorating your living room? We've compiled 50 gorgeous living room ideas to use as a starting point for your next decorating project. From decor to design to furniture, if you're looking for living room inspiration you've come to the right place. You can also shop similar looks with our living room accessories.
Rachel Whiting
1 of 50
Modern rustic
This contemporary, open-plan living space embraces a modern rustic feel. The beamed ceiling is a nod to the rustic setting, while a mix of vintage pieces blend with contemporary designs including the sofa.
Read more: This modern new-build cottage feels right at home in Suffolk
Bill Kingston
2 of 50
Victorian flair
Carolyn Barber
3 of 50
Modern oriental
Tim Young
4 of 50
Rich velvets
A painterly floral wallpaper provides a delicate backdrop to a beautiful and rich deep-blue velvet sofa.
For the perfect finishing touch, add velvet cushions with a contrasting trim for a truly wonderful living room scheme.
Read more: 8 photos that will make you want to decorate with velvet immediately
Mark Scott
5 of 50
Relaxed layering
Keep it contemporary yet pared back by teaming drips, drops and splatter patterns for an impressionistic look.
Read more: 6 stylish inky blue interiors
Colin Poole
6 of 50
Small change, big difference
A simple Roman blind and textured flooring has resulted in an elegant update for this neutral living room.
• Modern, traditional or shaggy, Modern Rugs has a great selection for your floor.
*We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Rachel Whiting
7 of 50
Go botanical
Carolyn Barber
8 of 50
Geometrical
Combine straight, curved and angular lines with splashes of colour for a graphic look, keeping the background of this living room understated.
Read more: 8 stylish ways to use pattern in your home
Dan Duchars
9 of 50
Bold backdrop
Abstract floral wallpaper creates a dramatic backdrop in this living room. The metallic ceiling pendant and table lamp bring a contemporary contrast, while the sweeping wooden frame of the coffee table and grey rug add texture and softness.
Read more: Judy Murray's Wimbledon flat makeover: from lad's pad to stylish sanctuary
Mark Scott
10 of 50
Naturally laid back
White walls, soft grey upholstery and pale wooden furniture create a relaxed and welcoming look. Choose a classic sofa as the centrepiece, then introduce pattern with a mix-and-match collection of patterned cushions and a geometric rug.
• Head to Dunelm for a range of cushions at an affordable price.
Fiona Walker-Arnott
11 of 50
A big impression
Choose eyecatching furniture and accessories to create impact in a big, airy room with high ceilings – as seen in this Regency townhouse renovation that's a perfect mix of old and new.
• Looking for a colourful sofa? Shop the most colourful ranges at Swoon.
Mark Scott
12 of 50
Rethink pink
Pink is still a huge interiors trend. Layer soft rose with grey, choose a classic sofa as the room's focal point and introduce pattern with decorative cushions and a rug. Contrast the soft colours with a statement floor lamp and coffee table.
House Beautiful/Carolyn Barber
13 of 50
Everyday luxury
For hygge vibes, add extra comfort to seating with a toning mix of patterned and plain cushions in linen and wool. It's the perfect autumn/winter look.
Read more: Scandi-style interiors: inspiration for your home
Chris Snook
14 of 50
Two-tone
This living room has a two-tone palette of grey and chalky white. The darker grey is used on the chimney breast, with the other three walls painted in warm white, which makes the room feel more spacious.
Read more: How one designer made the most of every inch of a compact living room
David Merewether
15 of 50
Cosy rustic
David Giles
16 of 50
Opposites attract
Vintage sofas bring an elegant feel in this Victorian home.
Promote a sense of intimacy in an open-plan or big room by arranging seating around a coffee table with a rug beneath. The aim is to create a cosy zone within the space.
• If you want a statement coffee table, head to Amara for some lust-worthy designs.
Susan Burnell
17 of 50
Dark and cosy
Carolyn Barber
18 of 50
Pop of colour in small spaces
In a small lounge area, a tactile velvet sofa in a golden shade and compact, rounded shape provides impact. Meanwhile, fringed and patterned cushions add individuality. Combining these tactile textures provide sumptuous depth, particularly useful for elevating small spaces.
Read more: 9 stylish ways to introduce ochre into a neutral space
David Barbour
19 of 50
Room with a view
A sofa with a low back looks contemporary and won't interrupt a great view, as can be seen in this modern farmhouse in Scottish highlands.
Jo Sheldrake
20 of 50
A country tale
This classic country style scheme is made relaxed and informal with a squashy sofa and chairs, neutral colours and natural textures.
The gilt-framed mirror and glamorous table lamps add a touch of elegance to the look.
Mark Scott
21 of 50
Artistic palette
Turn your living room into a masterpiece with painterly patterned fabrics, arty effects and a palette of soft colours. Choose fine cottons, linens and silks printed in washes of colour as a starting point for your scheme. Team highly decorative pieces with streamlined furniture for a perfect balance of form and function.
• Dress your home in faux flowers – shop some beautiful designs at John Lewis & Partners.
Lizzie Orme
22 of 50
Make it cosy
Toning grey walls teamed with upcycled furniture and vintage finds give this living room a cosy feel.
• Head to Dulux for some paint inspiration.
Richard Gadsby
23 of 50
Mid-century
This living room scheme has a mid-century feel. Bold splashes of bright yellow is teamed with sophisticated grey and white to create a striking yet very homely atmosphere.
Read more: This Victorian home is bursting with mid-century design
David Giles
24 of 50
A sense of space
Soft grey tones and crisp white details bounce light around this contemporary living room. Pale wooden furniture also helps to keep the room looking bright and airy.
• If you always forget to water plants, buy artificial ones instead. Shop a range on Amazon.
Rachel Whiting
25 of 50
Dark style
Moody greys and burnt orange tones create a welcoming, modern scheme. Offset a dark wall colour with sumptuous textures such as a wool upholstered sofa and a stylish chair in burnished leather.
Katie Lee
26 of 50
Feature walls
Katie Lee
27 of 50
Contemporary flair
Douglas Gibb
28 of 50
Neutral and light
Polly Eltes
29 of 50
Golden era
The living room in this 1950s house is a glorious example of how to indulge your love of a particular interior style or period without the scheme becoming clichéd or too kitsch.
Simply include a few modern pieces for contrast.
Mark Scott
30 of 50
Warming hues
Select a neutral paint colour with a warm tone as a backdrop for soft furnishings in rich russet shades. Team with classic patterns and choose rustic wooden furniture with simple industrial lines to complement the look.
7 luxurious velvet sofas to buy now
ideas for a cozy interior - INMYROOM
You just moved into a new house, and the interior seems to you not cozy enough, and you don’t have money for quality repairs. Do you know how decorate the room? Designers believe that a cozy house is the one that smartly and beautifully designed. No matter how the room would be furnished, its empty walls can ruin the whole interior. Also, the design will appear unfinished. Therefore, a good solution would be to try to decorate it. Not at all necessary use the services of specialists, but it is better to try to do it on one's own.
Wall painting
Wall painting is considered one of the most beautiful ways to decorate a room, so it is not surprising that even in the old days masters covered the walls with unique frescoes.
Also, by painting the walls, you can achieve an increase or decrease in space. Unlike those distant times, the painting technology in our time has not only remained the same, but has become even simpler. This is due to the fact that today only modern types of paints and materials are used to decorate walls.
Before starting wall painting, you need to carefully consider what exactly should be depicted on them, and make sure that the pattern is harmonious with the overall design of the room. Cosiness and harmony in the children's room will help to create large solid elements that should be very bright. While the living room is better suited large The drawing is only on one wall.
The next step is primer, putty walls, that is, preparation for the painting itself. Only after After that, you can start decorating the walls with drawings. Draw right away paints on the wall is better if you have artistic skills and you are sure you will do well. Otherwise, you can download lots of stencils from the internet.
Their use is first, the stencil is applied to the wall, then circle it with a pencil or paints and only then the outline of the stencil begins.
Photos, paintings, mirrors, clocks
Another way how to beautifully decorate a room to create coziness is photos, paintings, mirrors and clocks. Previously, you could see black and white family photos on the walls, because they look very hospitable and cozy. To achieve complete harmony, you need to combine different photos, experiment with their sizes and the color scheme of the frames, because pictures that are the same in size look completely inharmonious, boring and unattractive in one row.
There are many options for the location of photos and paintings, depending on their size. Can be around one large picture to arrange many small ones. Also on the wall hang just one, but a large picture. It all depends on imagination and desires of the owner of the house. Moreover, when choosing a design, it is worth considering the atmosphere.
the room they will be in. For example, the bedroom will be beautiful look romantic photos, common ones are more suitable for the living room family, and for children - cheerful, cheerful photos. Also, as room decorations should use panels, but it is worth remembering that they are better hang at eye level.
Mirror also considered a good option for decorating a room. The effect of warmth and comfort in the room is created provided that the mirror is hung so that it reflects photographs, paintings or panel. For mirrors, you should choose an interesting frame or make it independently, for example, using wooden clothespins, acrylic paints and varnish.
How to decorate a house with appliqués
The easiest, simplest and most original way to decorate a wall in a room is a pattern on the walls made from the remnants of wallpaper and stickers, that is, an appliqué. Using this method, you can create any pattern and pattern, as well as beautiful inscriptions by drawing them on a computer and carefully sticking them on the wall.
But it is worth remembering that bright applications are suitable for children's rooms, and in other rooms you can use pastel colors. If you do not pick up contrasting wallpapers for the application, then the pattern may not be noticeable enough. Using this type of wall decoration, you can not only slightly change the look of the room, but also radically transform the interior of the room.
Embroidery, textiles, pillows
Another way to decorate a room with your own hands is embroidery. If you love and know how to embroider, then this will be very easy to do. With the help of embroidery, you can enliven the interior of the room and make it more harmonious, giving completeness. The location of the embroidered paintings depends only on the individual taste and desires of the owner of the house.
The easiest way how to decorate a room - these are sofa cushions. They can also be used for contrast, and to complement the color scheme of the room. Color, fabric, cushion pattern depends on the desired effect and the interior of the room.
For the best result it is advisable to experiment, but, of course, do not forget about the style of your rooms.
Paper decoration ideas
Not only pillows or paintings can decorate a room. There is an affordable and easy way: use paper. What options?
- Home decoration with gift paper. Cut wrapping pieces and place them in frames or use a roll by sticking a long strip on the wall.
- Volumetric paper decorations. This type of creativity even has its own name - paper plastic. Flowers, butterflies, spirals are cut out of thick paper, bending the edges as needed. Romantic application is ready.
- Tissue paper pompoms (silence). Ten sheets are superimposed on each other, bending with an "accordion". In the middle, the workpiece is tied with a cord or fishing line. The edges are carefully unfolded, and an original decor is obtained: the pompom can be hung from the ceiling or on the wall.
- Origami. Colored or crisp white, these Japanese appliqués will decorate the walls of a living room or children's room.
Paper home decoration is an easy way to make changes to your interior. It will also serve as an excellent temporary solution, hiding a stain or dent on the wall, imperfection of the furniture.
Curtains for home decoration
Curtains play an important role in the interior of a room. Their change often drastically changes the look of the room. Now there is a huge selection of curtains for every taste, because their choice will not be a big problem, but will significantly help in changing the interior. When choosing curtains, it is worth remembering that they should be several tones brighter than the walls of the room. Also, do not forget about the retainers for curtains, which should fit the overall interior of the room.
Decorating a room with shelves
A functional and aesthetic way to decorate your home with your own hands is to use shelves. How to do it?
- Hang an open rack, framing it with a beautiful baguette (an example of an idea is in the photo).
- Paint the back of the shelving unit in a bright color that contrasts with the walls.
- Attach ordinary bookshelves by folding them into a word on the wall. Better if they are in color.
- Make compact shelves of non-standard shape (triangular, with polyhedral cells, in the form of crosses). Even if the decorative function of such items will prevail over the practical.
Do not forget two rules: for the shelves to really decorate the house, they must contrast with the wall, and the objects on them must be arranged harmoniously, without chaos.
Lighting
Lighting is a great way to decorate a room and plays one of the most important roles in decorating. Just changing the lighting will help to achieve huge results in decoration. After all, it is a large amount of light that is a frequent technique used by designers. Lots of natural soft light in your bedroom or living room will help you relax, while a cool color in your office will help you concentrate.
Plants, flowers
It is known that flowers and plants are not only the main source of oxygen, but also a beautiful and modern decoration for the room. With the help of plants, you can refresh the room, make the interior more natural and natural. But you need to use flowers in moderation and try not to overdo it, otherwise the room will look like a greenhouse. Flowers are chosen depending on the color and size of the plant. But it is worth remembering that plant species are selected not only depending on your taste, but also depending on the conditions needed by certain types of flowers. Some like a lot of moisture, others a lot of sunlight or shade, so this feature should also be taken into account.
DIY crafts
There are different ideas on the Internet to decorate a room with your own hands by creating a variety of crafts. Here are a few of them.
Circle painting
A very easy way to decorate a room with your own hands is a bubble painting.
To create it, we only need a tablet, scissors, a large brush, matte decoupage glue, white acrylic paint and papyrus paper of the desired colors. First you need to paint the tablet with a layer of white paint and dry, then cut out circles of different sizes from papyrus paper and distribute them on the tablet according to your tastes. Next, glue the circles and gently smooth them with a brush. The bubble painting is ready. Also, instead of circles, you can use completely different shapes to your taste.
Images from Instagram
Paste photos from Instagram onto a square tablet using a brush and glue, after printing them out and cutting them out. It is worth considering the size of photos and a tablet. For 9 10x10 photos to fit perfectly, the base should be 30x30. You can also do without cardboard by sticking images directly on the wall using double-sided tape. The idea for decorating the room is ready.
Topographic threads
This way of decorating a room requires accuracy and patience.
We will need a wooden tablet, a hammer, small nails and thread. First, we apply the desired pattern to the base. Then we put a few points into which we drive nails. Next, we tie the thread to one nail and randomly wrap it around each nail. For better results, you can repeat the process with a thread of a different color.
Video
We recommend watching these videos to help decorate the room in an original way.
DIY Room Decor [100+ Inspirational Ideas] 2019
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09/27/2017Batik pillows, decorative boxes and framed wall compositions – all this can be created by hand
Do you want to add a “zest” to the interior? Do you want to update the design of the room, but there are no funds for repairs? You can decorate the house with your own hands with elegant trinkets or functional crafts created from the remains of various materials using simple tools. DIY room decor is a fun activity for the whole family.
Having mastered simple tricks, you can, using your imagination, make exclusive items that will decorate your home.
Contents
- DIY interior decoration techniques
- Decor: do-it-yourself bedroom and bedroom furniture
- DIY room decor: bathroom ideas
- Decorating a children's room with your own hands
Do-it-yourself door decor: a table created from an old door will be a suitable decor for a Scandinavian interior
Various bottles, vases and other vessels can also be used to create a stylish decor
A large glass vase with branches will decorate the living room
Techniques
decor do-it-yourself rooms Exactly how you will create decorations for the room depends on the materials you have, as well as on your skills and talents. If you have no experience, do not take up wood carving - try to master quilling or felting. Have you noticed artistic inclinations? Then give preference to batik.
Can you knit? Decorate the interior with yarn products!
- Woodcarving. Gorgeous figurines, candlesticks, caskets - that skillful carpenters just do not cut out of wood. However, for an unprepared layman, this activity is likely to be unsuccessful.
Living room wall panel made with wood carvings
Simple coffee table made of raw light wood and carved
- Art painting is a great way to decorate the walls. The drawing can be applied using stencils, drawing from a sketch on graph paper or using a slide projector.
Floral ornament in the painting of the bright wall of the living room
Original solution: comics on the walls and ceiling of the bathroom
Real forest in the children's room
- Batik - painting on fabric. With the help of this technique, decorative pillows, curtains, lampshades and other textiles in the interior are decorated.
Popular shades of gray and blue in decorative pillows
Bright pillows painted in batik technique using unusual combinations of patterns, colors and shades
Painted textile lampshade
A variety of pillows that you can create yourself will decorate the living room
- Embroidery.
With the help of embroidery, unique panels and paintings are created. Pillowcases for decorative pillows are also decorated with embroidery.
- Knitting. Hook or knitting needles - any tool is suitable for making flat and voluminous decorations. Usually they knit toys, original covers for flower pots, vases, all kinds of boxes, cups and organizers, lampshades for lamps, decorative napkins, rugs and other little things.
Vases in knitted cases
Stylish decorative element - yellow knitted cover for a decorative pillow in a pastel-colored interior
Decorative knitted blanket
- Quilling - a method of creating applications from twisted paper ribbons, which requires minimal space for implementation and a lot of imagination .
Quilling watch
- Felting. There is a technique of wet felting (for creating flat products - applications) and dry felting (for creating voluminous figurines from natural wool).
Baby bed pendant made of felted wool figurines
Decorative figurine made using felting technique from wool
- Decoupage. By cutting out a pattern on a paper napkin and gluing it to the surface, you can decorate walls, furniture, dishes - almost any piece of furniture.
There are other techniques that smart hosts use to spice up their home and surprise their guests. Consider a few decor ideas for different rooms.
Interior decor can be furniture created using wooden pallets
From a small nondescript wooden bench you can create a nice coffee table for the living room
A beautiful wooden panel on the living room wall
Floor glass vases with natural birch branches will complement the modular picture with birches
Modern interior with wooden crate shelving
Bright modern living room with handcrafted coffee table
Decor: do-it-yourself bedroom and do-it-yourself bedroom furniture
Extra comfort never hurts in the bedroom.
If you have a simple compact chandelier, complete it with elements of a Christmas tree garland and a few patches of "weightless" transparent fabric like organza. The walls can be traditionally decorated with paintings, that is, images in frames. The more original the frame, the simpler the drawing itself can be - even a fragment of wallpaper will do. The frame can be painted, voluminous decorative elements can be glued - beads, pebbles, shells.
The space above the head of the bed can be successfully filled with a panel of paintings in contrasting frames
An example of decorating a wall with images in a classic-style interior
How to decorate a teenager girl's room with your own hands? Very simple! For a teenage girl's room, painted walls and soft poufs that you can make yourself are suitable
A decorative stepladder that can be used as a hanger will decorate the Scandinavian bedroom
Tip! Very interesting frame options are obtained using curly pasta, which can then be painted with spray paint.
DIY summer room decor
Soft textile pillow at the head of the bed
Unusual solution for decorating the head of the bed. Solid, almost unfinished wood is used here
Think about how interesting it is to play with the head of the bed. Use decoupage, vinyl stickers, and if the bed does not have a headboard, you can create its own likeness. Knock down the wooden frame and cover it with fabric. And an elegant wrought-iron headboard can simply be drawn on the wall using 3D technique.
DIY room decor: ideas for the bathroom
Using the decoupage technique, you can make all the items in the bathroom sparkle in a new way. At the same time, plumbing, accessories, and even walls will create a single harmonious ensemble. Let's start with the toilet lid, on which we will transfer the pattern we like from a regular paper napkin. We cut out the pattern along the contour and leave only the top layer of the napkin, on which the image is applied.
We apply a fragment of a napkin to the toilet lid and apply the adhesive solution with a brush. The glue will soak the napkin and fix it on the surface of the lid. After the glue dries, cover the drawing with acrylic varnish - this will make the decor durable.
The same designs can be transferred to a toilet paper holder, soap dish, toothbrush cup, tulip washbasin leg, trash can. Using the same technique, you can decorate the walls of the bathroom.
Another interesting and practical idea is a bath rug made from sea pebbles. As a basis, we take the simplest rubber mat or a piece of linoleum. We apply universal glue to the entire surface of the base and lay out the pre-prepared pebbles. It is better to pick up small and flat neat pebbles. When decorating your bathroom with your own hands, make sure that all materials are waterproof.
Beach-style bathroom decorated with natural starfish and shells
DIY kids room decor
When looking for materials to decorate a nursery, look for old puzzles.
You can make interesting applications out of them by painting the details, sticking them on the base and placing them in a photo frame. Helium-filled balloons will be a fun decoration. Fix a couple of these balls on the floor so that they are located at the level of the child's eyes. Sew and glue hats and yarn hair to the balls, draw funny faces - DIY decoration for the children's room is ready.
One of the most popular ways to decorate a nursery is with colorful paper and balloons
An unusual textile decoration for a child's room is easy to create yourself
Bright paper butterflies on the wall in combination with bright pictures will decorate a girl's room
An original idea for decorating a child's room
A boy's room - a teenager can be decorated with posters or graffiti
Decorating a nursery in a marine theme
Bright paper butterflies on a branch look cute in a baby's room
The traditional elements of the baby's room are colorful pillows of various shapes.
