The living room is the space in your home that's used most frequently for socializing with family and friends, gathering for holidays and celebrations, and relaxation. A home may have a living room that's not inviting or doesn't project a warm atmosphere. By contrast, the kitchen in the same house may be inviting and comfortable. Most homeowners pay a lot of attention to decorating their kitchens and not the living room. The living room isn't the space for furniture you don't want to donate or for downsizing. The functional and decorative pieces you choose for your living room should reflect your taste, lifestyle and be long-lasting. You want to feel pampered and completely relaxed in your living space. When you're decorating, you may want to consider investing in designer and high-end pieces. Not only will your furniture last, but you'll have designer brands that reflect your unique style and taste. Here are the components to consider:
A sofa is the one piece that ties the decor of your living room together. Whether you're watching TV, reading, or socializing with friends, your sofa is usually the primary seating area. There are more than 20 styles of sofas, including sectionals, sleep sofas, and recliners. Options include a single sofa or a set that may consist of a two-piece set with a sofa and loveseat. The style should complement your home decor, whether it's contemporary, rustic, or modern. Modern sofas should have the features you need, like a USB charger.
A coffee table placed in front of the sofa pulls the room's decor together and offers a cozy atmosphere. You can display your collection of coffee table books, favorite magazines or use the table for serving snacks and drinks. You don't always have to buy a coffee table. The function is more important than the type of table you buy. Alternatives to a coffee table in small rooms are matching side tables that can be used together or placed apart. A vintage trunk can double as a unique table. Nesting tables are also excellent for limited spaces.
Side tables should complement the style of the coffee table. Place accent lighting, decorative items, or scented candles on the tables for a cozy atmosphere. A trend in side tables for the living room are plinth and platform-based tables. The plinth style tends to be more expensive due to the weight of the base. Platform-based tables are an excellent option since they're more budget-friendly. The base is usually constructed of wood, brass, or marble. Since platform tables are low, they offer the illusion of making a room have more height.
Accent chairs are the perfect way to provide additional seating in your living room. The sofa should be your first purchase, then choose the chairs to complement it. Accent seating can be traditional chairs, recliners, or convert into a bed. The most popular types of accent chairs are the club, occasional, slipper, and wingback chairs. Club chairs are comfortable, roomy upholstered chairs usually used in pairs. Occasional chairs are lightweight, armless chairs that can be moved easily. Slipper chairs are small upholstered chairs excellent for small spaces. Wingback chairs are upholstered pieces that work well with a large sofa.
Avid readers should consider placing bookcases in their living room for a quiet book nook and enhance the decor. Standard bookcases work well, but there are different styles to suit every preference. Modular bookcases come in groups of two or more. They can be interlocked or arranged separately. Corner shelves are excellent for displaying book collections of delicate decorative items. Barrister bookcases are made of wood with smoked glass doors. They're perfect for antique books or collections. Traditional wood bookcases feature carved wood and filigree details.
A media cabinet is essential when it comes to keeping your living room neat and organized. Cabinets for media storage are an excellent alternative to a conventional TV stand. Media units surround the TV on each side and come in a wide range of colors, styles, and finishes. Drawer space is ideal for storing your movie collection, board games for the kids, remotes, and other equipment. A large cabinet can even store throw pillows and blankets. A media cabinet allows you to designate one area of your living room as a space for watching your favorite movies and shows.
