As an interior decorator, I highly recommend avoiding small rugs and plastic vertical blinds. These choices can detract from the overall comfort and cohesion of your living room design. Instead, opt for larger statement art pieces in place of gallery walls to avoid overstimulation in your home. A small rug can make a room feel cramped and disjointed, so think of it as a place mat rather than a centerpiece for your furniture. Ideally, choose a rug that extends 6 to 8 inches beyond your sofa on either side and allows at least two legs from each furniture item to sit comfortably on it.
In terms of furniture, futons may be more functional than comfortable. Due to their lightweight construction, futons are often smaller and have firmer cushions compared to regular sofas. While they can be a space-saving option, I wouldn’t sacrifice comfort and style for occasional guests. Instead, consider utilizing a futon in a home office or flex space and invest in a more comfortable sleeper sofa if you need to double your living room as a guest space.
For window treatments, I advise against plastic vertical blinds. They can look cheap and tend to bend, tear easily, and be frustrating to operate. Quality blinds or light-filtering shades can enhance both privacy and interior decor. Consider opting for 2-inch wooden or shutter blinds or incorporating curtains for temperature control and to add personality to your space.
It’s important to separate work and relaxation areas in your living room to maintain a comfortable work environment. If possible, create separate zones for work and living, even in a limited space. Set up a dedicated desk facing away from the wall and use dividers, such as an open shelving unit or set of drawers, to create a clear divide between the workspace and living areas.
Avoid relying solely on overhead and bright-white lighting in your living room. This type of lighting can make the space feel dark and small. Instead, spread the light around with a variety of fixtures at different heights, use dimmer switches to control brightness, and choose light bulbs with a warmer color temperature for a more inviting glow.
Exposed wires can be an eyesore in your living room. Consider mounting your TV or installing plug-in wall sconces to elevate the space. If running your wires through the wall isn’t an option, install a cord-concealing track that matches your wall color. Alternatively, invest in a nice TV stand with cable organizer options that are attractive and affordable.
When selecting furniture, prioritize comfort over looks. A beautiful piece may make your living room look like a magazine spread, but it may not be inviting and comfortable for people to use. Consider your lifestyle and family needs when investing in furniture. If you want guests to lounge in your living room, avoid couches with high-sided armrests, narrow cushion depth, or rigid accent chairs with wooden arms and firm seats.
Gallery walls can often feel overwhelming and uninspired if not curated mindfully. Instead of scattering framed posters, small artworks, and family photos on a large wall, opt for large-scale art pieces that make a bold design statement. Keep small-scale art for table tops and bookshelves to minimize visual clutter.
Loose back cushions on a sectional can be frustrating to maintain. While they may be appealing for washing purposes, they require regular rearranging. Consider the weight and density of the cushions when purchasing a couch. Lightweight cushions will frequently fall down and need to be pushed around, while heavy feather cushions will require regular fluffing. If constant maintenance and fluffing are not desirable, opt for a couch with attached back cushions.
Instead of limiting yourself to small throw blankets, consider larger options for practicality and comfort. Standard throw blankets, around 40 by 60 inches, may not provide enough coverage. Look for twin-size or oversized throw blankets, especially in cozy knit fabrics, which can add texture to your space and be versatile for you and your overnight guests.
In conclusion, as an interior decorator, my recommendations for a well-designed and comfortable living room include avoiding small rugs, plastic vertical blinds, uncomfortable futons, relying solely on overhead lighting, exposed wires, uncomfortable furniture, overwhelming gallery walls, frustrating loose back cushions, and small throw blankets. By making thoughtful choices and prioritizing comfort and cohesion, you can create a stylish and inviting living room space.
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