Designing a living room that works for your lifestyle
We’re always seeing beautiful living rooms online and in magazines, but how do you design a gorgeous living room that works for your lifestyle?
In this blog, I’m discussing ways you can create your own sanctuary that looks as good as you see on Instagram, yet is functional for the whole family.
Credit- www.zenndesign.com.au
Use versatile furniture and storage
When selecting furniture, add as much storage as possible. Ensure your TV unit, buffet or built in cabinetry can house enough objects as your family grows and needs change over the years. A blanket box not only stores a good amount of excess cushions, etc, but also works as an additional seat if you’re entertaining a lot of people. If you have room in the entryway, add a slimline cabinet for shoes to keep them off the floor.
If your living room is larger in size and has some versatility in floorplan orientation, opt for a 3-4 seater sofa with a reversible chaise. The reversible option makes things easier down the track if you decided to change the layout of your furniture.
Project Charlemont
Size and scale of furniture
On the topic of furniture, size and scale are just as important and will differ for each home. Not just because of the floorplan and positioning of the TV. It’s also because of the size of each family who lives there. For tall people or families with children who love to watch movies together, a deeper sofa will be more comfortable than a standard 800-900mm.
If you have a sofa without a chaise, using a smaller coffee table and an ottoman to put your feet up could be more desirable than a large coffee table. To add even more functionality, using an ottoman with a lid means you can pop extra toys, books and more in there.
Credit- https://www.instagram.com/glux/
Floor plan and furniture layouts
Most furniture layouts are catered to the television. If you’d like to add some interest to your living room, you could have the TV positioned next to a fireplace and let that be the hero instead. Alternatively, creating built in shelves either side of the TV takes some of the attention away from the screen. To go one step further, add sliding cabinetry doors to completely hide the TV when it’s off.
Apart from the TV, other things to consider with your living room floorplan is the flow through the room. Does anyone play sport and lug big bags through the house? Do you have young children that (as much as you don’t want them to) run around with their toys or play tag inside? In these times, it’s best to avoid sharp edges and furniture that juts out of walkways. Ensure rugs are the correct size and have an anti slip backing to prevent accidents. Swivel chairs are a very versatile piece that allows you to comfortably sit and converse with others no matter what side of the room they’re on.
There are many things to consider when designing and decorating your home so I hope you found these tips helpful.
If you need some assistance, feel free to email me at chloe@designsbychloe.net or via the contact form to schedule a quick call.
Plus, if you have an idea for a blog post, let me know and I’ll look into for you.
Until next time!