Three Approaches to Living Room Design

In every home, the living room is a natural gathering spot, a place where friends and family convene to relax, watch a movie, or enjoy conversation (and perhaps a cocktail or two). However, depending on the needs of your family and the size of your home, the function–and design–of your living room may vary from a comfy, casual spot, to an adults-only space with a more formal feel.

Trying to determine the style of space that’s right for your home? Here, we’ve put together three approaches to living room design that scale from relaxed to regal.

The Family Space

If you live in a home with one main gathering space, it’s likely that your living room will act as a family room, too. Meaning it will be the spot where the entire family gathers to watch television or play board games, but it’ll also be the space where you entertain, too. In this type of room plenty of seating and lots of storage are key. Start with a sectional sofa in a dark hue, which will accommodate a crowd while covering up spills. Adding in furniture like storage ottomans or a bookshelf filled with pretty baskets will allow you to quickly store toys and games when company comes over. Finish off the look with accents like toss pillows and throw blankets, which are both decorative and cozy.

The Relaxed Living Room

If you do happen to have a separate living room space, that doesn’t mean it has to be downright formal. You can take a slightly more elevated approach to the design of your space while still keeping it comfortable and inviting. Instead of a sectional, choose a separate sofa and loveseat or a pair of armchairs in classic, more structured shapes. If you have children, stick to resilient fabrics and darker upholstery. If not, pale neutral shades like white, cream, and khaki are light and beautiful options.

The Formal Room

Bring on the breakables! If you have space for a formal living room in addition to a family room, you can also consider making it a space that’s adults only; somewhere you can gather with your own friends without worrying they might trip over legos and spill their martini. Use the living room as a space that’s a representation of your style without worrying about whether or not it’s functional for the rest of the family. It’s the perfect place to indulge your love of mirrored furniture, glass tabletops, sharp edges and light colors.