Designing Spaces: The Living Room
The living room is a central space in the home. It is certainly one of the most important and most frequently used rooms. Even if your dining room is nearby—or sometimes your table is placed directly in the living room out of choice or due to lack of space—the living room will always be more or less defined by clearly designated furniture, namely comfortable seating.
The basic elements that generally make up your living room are: a sofa, one or more armchairs or poufs, a coffee table, and for TV lovers, a unit designed for it, toward which the seating will be oriented. To this, the more inspired among you may add: a rug, cushions, a side table with softer indirect lighting, plants, a bookshelf, frames and mirrors, and various personal objects to make the space warmer and more vibrant. Don’t hesitate to review your interior and make a small checklist of what currently exists in your living room.
I would say it is always necessary to set an intention for each space in your home. In the living room, you may enjoy hosting guests, having drinks with friends, organizing game nights—it can be a family space, or on the contrary, an intimate one where you unwind at the end of the day away from work-related stress. It can also sometimes be a workspace (I emphasize here the importance of defining areas even if they are in the same room: a small screen, a plant that visually separates spaces, a distinct décor, or a desk that can be closed away—these are all tricks to separate work from private life).
Once you have defined your intention for this room, ask yourself what you want or need in terms of atmosphere: calm, introspection, fun, light, color, joy, comfort… It is important that this is clear in your mind because these intentions and desires will guide your future choices: the materials you use, the colors, the number of seats, the artwork on the walls, and so on.
The important thing is to choose items that truly resonate with you. Avoid adding something just to please someone else—or if you live as a couple, find compromises so both of you can feel represented in the décor.
It is sometimes better to wait before buying an armchair in order to find the right one, even if it means living with a chair and a cushion for a few weeks… Look for “love at first sight” without overthinking it. The same applies to color (article in progress): choose a color that resonates with you. A darker color does not necessarily mean dull. You can also paint the walls halfway up or leave a white border to create height, or even choose to paint just one column or a small wall—this pause will draw the eye and prevent you from getting bored. Color has real effects on the mind.
Don’t underestimate the lighting in your living room either: of course, have a central light, but also several indirect lamps (such as small table lamps) when you want to change the mood. You can also play with softer string lights and candles that elevate the room’s vibrational energy. Invest in your living room and maintain a minimum level of order—it will make you want to spend time there even more. If throws, blankets, and magazines are scattered on the sofa, store them in a large wicker basket.
Finally, choose curtains to insulate yourself from the outside in the evening and to add texture and coziness to your space. In winter, they are also excellent for keeping the cold out!
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