Intentional design will ensure that your living space makes an excellent first impression, whether it’s for guests or the homeowners themselves. While everyone has their own sense of style, there are a few general design principles that can be applied to any living room to create a functional space that leaves a lasting impression.
If you feel your living room has been lacking a wow factor, a statement piece may be what you need. This could be something as simple as a bright-coloured sofa, or something more complicated like an elaborate marble sculpture. Statement pieces are important because they help pull the elements of the room together, and they draw attention to a specific focal point.
Here are some items you may put in your living room to make it the primary point of the whole property:
Wall-Mounted Shelves
For those with limited space, wall-mounted shelves are a great way to display treasured items. A simple, yet stylish shelf unit can be the focus of the room and give it a designer feel.
Wall-mounted shelves come in a variety of shapes and styles, from beautifully designed rail systems to a simple metal bar that can be used to hang bookends, vases and even a TV. For those more into the minimalist look, a few pieces of art strategically placed on the wall, or above a fireplace, can also be the highlight of a room.
If you have a large window, consider turning it into a feature. Arrange a simple white curtain rod and let the curtains hang down to the floor. You can even cut a large window in half and put a curtain on each side for a dramatic effect.
Storage units—especially large pieces of furniture—are great for adding a focal point to the room. Place a storage cabinet along a wall, or right in the middle of the room, for a more dramatic effect.
Mirrors
Mirrors can be used to make a small room appear larger. In larger rooms, a mirror placed across from the windows can help brighten the space.
Bright colours can be used to make a room pop and are a good way to inject a little excitement into a room. They can also be used to complement other design pieces, such as a sofa or artwork. The living room is the best place to introduce colour, but you can also use it in accent pieces such as a lampshade or the throw pillows on the sofa.
Painting an accent wall adds an element of drama to the room. To ensure the right effect, keep in mind the colour of the hardwood floor and the colour of your furniture and accessories. Dark colours will make a room seem smaller, while lighter colours will make it seem larger.
Pillows & Blankets
Pillows and blankets can be used in a variety of ways, from a comfortable seat for you to curl up with a good book, to a beautiful focal point for your living room. Start with the couch and work your way out. Cushion your coffee table with a colourful blanket or throw, and arrange them around the room to add dimension. A throw on an armchair in front of the TV will make it a more enticing place to curl up on a rainy day.
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