Has your spring cleaning led to thoughts of a makeover for that main gathering place—the living room? If so, we have ideas for you.
A good starting point is to think about an overall style, like a theme that will hold the room together and helps it tell a story. Here are five inspirations for doing just that. Minimalist style emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, neutral colors and minimalist decor. Use furniture and décor pieces that are sleek and functional, and maximize the use of natural light. Since you’re in that spring cleaning mode, the first thing to do is declutter. Minimalist is quite literal. What’s the least you need or want?
Minimalist colors should lean toward neutral. You want soft colors. You don’t want the room to shout “look at me.” The color palette is a simple background for the furnishings and function of the space. Eye-catching wall art can provide a bit of contrast. Make the most of natural light. The result should be calming and relaxing.
Bohemian-style living rooms are inspired by a mix of cultures and incorporate colorful, eclectic pieces with lots of texture. Use earthy tones, layered textiles, and a variety of plants to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Think “Midnight in Paris,” a movie worth seeing for its cast of bohemians in Jazz Age Paris.
If you are somewhat unconventional and enjoy musical, artistic and literary pursuits, Bohemian style might be the right decorating melody for you to play. Think ‘no rules.’ If you like it, it fits. A keyword is mixing. This might also be called eclectic. Today it is sometimes referred to as Boho style.
Industrial style living room features an edgy, urban look with a focus on raw materials, such as exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and metal accents. Incorporate vintage and industrial-inspired furniture and lighting to complete the look. As its name suggests, Industrial style interiors have been inspired by people converting former commercial spaces into residential spaces. Think about restaurants or brew pubs that have that warehouse look.
Industrial style is a good setting for metal furniture and accessories. The setting is usually an open floor plan. If you have a brick fireplace or an interior wall that is brick, call attention to it. As an alternative, a Decorating Den Interiors design pro has creative ways to make a wall look distressed. The wide range of industrial-style lighting that is available can help you make a brilliant statement with the space. If the word industrial grates on you a bit, just call it Urban Chic.
Coastal-style living rooms incorporate natural materials and soothing colors reminiscent of the beach, such as light blues and whites. Use furniture and décor pieces that feature natural textures like sisal, jute, and rope, and finish off the space with ocean-themed accents like shells and driftwood. Think Margaritaville. Well, maybe toned down some.
Since you will be using lots of lighter colors on furniture, be sure to ask about Performance Fabrics and the differences among them. Wallcoverings, especially murals, are a fabulous way to create a coastal feel and stimulate the imagination. Use shell print fabrics on pillows and shell-based lighting to add
interest. Go ahead, make it a day at the beach.
Traditional-style living rooms feature classic furniture pieces with ornate details, perhaps a Chippendale. Rich fabrics for draperies and upholstery are a staple. Use warm colors like reds and golds and incorporate elegant accents like chandeliers and vintage mirrors to create a timeless and welcoming look.
A key in furniture placement is balance; think symmetrical. Oriental rugs, woods, and chandeliers are popular with traditionalists. There always are some who say traditional is outdated, but as the word conveys, it is lasting in favor. Traditional is tried and true but evolving. Feel free to work with your designer to add your own personal touches.
