A spacious living room is a wonderful solution that works with many modern interior design trends. By using tried-and-true interior design concepts, you can maximize living room space and create a room that your family loves.
According to Psychology Today, Americans are spending increasing amounts of time at home. With more and more time invested in your house, the right living room design is an essential component of a well-functioning space.
What Is the 3-5-7 Rule in Interior Design?
The 3-5-7 rule for interior design emphasizes the importance of odd numbers of items to create a visually dynamic space. Rather than symmetrical furniture, odd numbers are more exciting to the eye, which can also make the room appear larger.
One example of the 3-5-7 rule is table lamps. Rather than installing two identical table lamps that are equidistant from each other, place three lamps at different points around the room for a more intriguing lighting scheme.
What Are the Three F's of Interior Design?
The "Three F's" of interior design are:
- Floor Plan: The floor plan helps to determine the size of items and where they should be placed.
- Finishes: Finishes include surface materials, such as cabinetry, paint, and flooring.
- Fixtures: Permanent parts of the home that add definition, such as cabinet handles, shower heads, and soap dispensers.
By combining all of these elements into your final home design, you will create an interior that is cohesive and timeless.
Home Decor Ideas for a Spacious Living Room
If you have determined that you want a more spacious living room, the next step is to modify your furniture and other decor elements to match your desired theme. Here are some key home decor tips for creating a harmonious living room area in your home.
Invest in a Sectional Sofa
Sectional sofas provide visual appeal without taking up too much space. Rather than separate couches dispersed throughout the room, a sectional combines all of the seating into one area, opening up more space around it for other furniture.
Consider deep seating sectional sofas for added comfort. Rather than perching on the couch, you can feel free to lounge with plenty of extra room for relaxing.
Avoid Excessive Clutter
While it may be tempting to fill space with more furniture, the concept can easily evolve from quirky to cluttered. Make sure that you do not have too many items out and about. Everyday objects should have appropriate homes, and be put away when not in use.
If you have children, consider modern storage solutions like chests and modular furniture. You can also keep toys in a designated area, such as a playroom, so they don't interfere with the living room space.
A good rule of thumb for determining excess furniture is to see if you can easily walk through your living room. When you find yourself dodging furniture or spending too much time navigating complex pathways, it may be time to reduce the number of items.
Use Rugs to Define Areas
An area rug can act as an anchor to pull attention to a designated part of your living room. Try multiple rugs with coordinating colors and designs to create areas that work well together, but still have separate functions.
Plush rugs can also provide cushion for feet as a juxtaposition to harsh wood or tile floors. Sinking your feet into a rug can make the space feel more comfortable and homey.
Fill Space Vertically
One of the keys to maximizing living room space is vertical space as well as horizontal space. Tall objects will juxtapose with shorter furniture for a more dynamic floor plan. Some examples of items that fill vertical space include:
- Floor lamps
- Plants
- Shelving units
- Sculptures
Accentuate Unique Features
Does your home have high vaulted ceilings? Do you live in a historical property with preserved period features? Make sure to highlight unique aspects of your home in your living room.
Accessorize an original fireplace with elements that draw the eye. Place antique items strategically around the room as conversation pieces.
Provide Thoughtful Lighting
While many homes feature standard overhead lighting, these lights may be too harsh. Replace the bulbs with warmer alternatives that contribute to a cozy environment, rather than harsh, cooler tones.
If you do not enjoy overhead lighting, smaller lamps will provide plenty of ambiance without being overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Maximize Storage Space in My Living Room?
Even if you have a spacious living room, too many items out and about can make it appear cluttered. Storage solutions for your living space should be clean and discreet to emphasize calming features.
Consider investing in furniture that doubles as storage. Many sections now have cushion sections with hollow storage areas on the inside, which can serve as locations for extra pillows and blankets.
Shelving units with doors or sliding covers can hold items such as books and knick-knacks, giving you flexibility to display them or hide them away at your convenience.
Can Modernizing My Living Room Boost Home Value?
Absolutely. Spacious, open-concept living room designs are more appealing than older, closed-concept models. Families can interact in a streamlined floor plan, which is especially beneficial for those with small children or frequent guests.
How Does Living Room Harmony Improve Mood?
The living room should be the center of your home, so its design can have a significant impact on your mood. A space that is jammed with furniture and other items can lead to feelings of:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Claustrophobia
- Depression
A well-executed living room concept can elevate your mood, leading to increased happiness and well-being. You'll actually want to spend time in your living room, rather than walking by it to get to the kitchen or bedroom.
Stay Up to Date With Interior Design Trends
Renovating your home to include a spacious living room can contribute to a modern and more streamlined interior design. With this guide, the living room of your dreams is not as far away as you may think.
Would you like to learn more about interior design? Take a look around our website for the latest tips, tricks, and guides, so you can turn your house into a home.
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