Living Room Ideas and Inspiration

There is no one-size-fits-all living room. The best furniture placement depends on the shape and size of your space. Would you like to make a big, open layout, such as a combined living/dining area, feel more intimate? Consider a large area rug paired with a formal grouping of furniture such as a sofa and two chairs arranged to create the illusion of a room within a room. Do you have a small living room? Rather than two armchairs and a loveseat, choose an asymmetrical layout. Are there any fireplaces? Create a cozy atmosphere around them. If your living room also serves as a walk-through space, leave the coffee table off and leave a clear pathway between spaces. No matter the size or shape of your space, these no-fail living room layout ideas are guaranteed to work.

Table placement is one of the unsung heroes of any living room design: Imagine a beautifully decorated space without a place to put your cup of tea. You can use a few thoughtfully-placed coffee tables, end tables, benches, and/or ottomans as coffee tables and extra seating when you have guests over. Your living room may also benefit from a storage chest, credenza, sideboard, or media station.

Despite what might seem obvious, a sofa is a big-ticket item. What color and material would look the best in your space (gray? something more colorful?) as well as what would suit your lifestyle (velvet, leather, wood-framed). If you're on a budget, you can find plenty of chic options under $1,000, and even less than $500. For apartments and small spaces, a sofa with a petite frame is best suited. Think about a single accent chair, two accent chairs, a daybed, or perhaps an accent stool.

As soon as the major pieces are in place, you only have one decision to make - the layout is set, you have comfortable seating and ample storage space, you have a few tables and a rug that fits just right, the lighting is perfect, and the color scheme is dreamy - and that is decorative trimmings. In addition to curtains and window treatments, you can add wall decor, candles, and houseplants to your seating arrangement.

This living room floor idea will amplify the design of your space in many ways, and you'll want to choose it carefully so you don't make the mistake of getting the wrong size rug. Make sure to measure your living room carefully and consider your layout (see above). When you've found the right size, decide what shape - rectangular, round, abstract, or even layered - would suit your setup. Don't forget to think about the material, pile, and style (patterned, statement-making, or neutral).

What living room idea would be complete without the perfect ambiance, and what better way to achieve that goal than with lighting? If you need ambient lighting, you may need ceiling lights and/or floor lamps, wall sconces for accent lighting, and reading lights for curled up on the couch with a good book. It doesn't matter if your style is contemporary or midcentury, farmhouse or industrial, you'll want fixtures that are functional and attractive. Any room should have a dimmer switch.

Color can transform a room instantly. White, beige, greige, or gray are all light and neutral colors. Do you want something dramatic and moody? Black, blue, or green may be just what you are looking for. If, on the other hand, your dream is to have a bright and cheerful space, perhaps yellow or pink would be a good option.

Your personal style should also be taken into consideration when designing your living room. What is your preferred aesthetic? Bohemian, traditional, midcentury, farmhouse? Or are you more into industrial, modern, contemporary, or minimalist style? Regardless of what style speaks to you, this guide will help you give your space a makeover while staying true to your personality.

Layout can be a challenge when square footage is scarce. A few pieces of your favorite decor go a long way, as well as storage, lighting, and seating. No worries. You can make the most of your small living room with these tips and tricks.

Storage options for the living room are numerous. By combining built-ins, shelving, and cabinets, you can keep things interesting and organized. Even decorative bins and baskets can save a little extra space, perfect for corralling small items like blankets, pillows, or toys.