Living room design: 4 essential elements

While the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom have clearly defined functions, the living room is a space with unlimited potential. You can use your lounge to entertain guests, gather with family or to enjoy moments of solitude so it’s worth taking the time to cultivate an ambience which suits your needs. Here are a few interior design tips to help you create the perfect living space.

1. Draw the eye in

Essential elements like furniture or even cherished decorative objects should be used as building blocks to establish a visual flow to your living room. Catch the eye with a bold statement piece – a geometric rug or vibrant painting on the wall. Make the room inviting with cosy additions such as luxe cashmere blankets or a plush velvet loveseat. You can then complete your carefully curated layout with natural elements such as plants, personal photos in thoughtfully chosen frames, and finishing touches like a stack of photography books on the coffee table.

2. Let there be light

No matter the size of your living room, considered lighting choices can make the space feel spacious and bright. Whether you prefer statement chandeliers or classic glass-domed pendant lights, start with your overhead lighting and choose a piece to suit your style. Add to this main light source with table lamps or standing lights. Himalayan salt rock lamps and delicate strands of fairy lights add a whimsical touch perfect for evening, or you can work vintage style into your living room decoration with structural art deco lampshades.

3. Choose a colour palette for your living room

A cohesive colour scheme makes it far easier to pull a room together. The size of your living room is a determinant factor: pastels or ivory tones are ideal for smaller spaces while bright, bold jewel tones can work well in grander rooms. If you’re drawn to more vibrant hues, a good rule of thumb is to choose two main colours and add a third accent shade to really make those lead colours pop. A monochromatic scheme with different shades of the same colour is another option that can be utilised to suit your interior design. 

4. Consider your lifestyle

It’s easy to get swept up in the finer details of living room decoration, but basic practicality is also a vital component in interior design. Your lounge should reflect your household needs, with flooring a prime example. For areas with lots of foot traffic, durable carpeting is a good choice as it can be easily replaced or steam cleaned; polished floorboards offer a sleek, classical style yet they do require upkeep. 

Are you ready to give your lounge a makeover? You’ll find an array of living room decoration ideas in this category to help get you started, including tips for decorating multi-level homes, integrating bars into your design and creating the perfect outdoor living space.