When it comes to decorating your living room, there are a lot of factors to consider. From selecting the right furniture to determining the perfect color palette, creating a stylish and comfortable living space is no easy task. That's why we've compiled this list of 10 must-know tips for designing your living room. Read on to learn all the secrets to a beautiful and functional living room design.
1. Plan Ahead
When it comes to DIY living room design, planning ahead is crucial to achieving the perfect space. One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make when designing their living room is only considering their current needs. Instead, try to think about how you can make your room design flexible enough to accommodate any future changes. For example, if you have young children, you might opt for an open-plan layout that allows you to keep an eye on them while you're in the kitchen. But as they grow up and require more privacy, you might want to add doors or dividers to create separate spaces.
Another factor to consider when planning ahead is your storage needs. Make sure to include plenty of storage solutions in your living room design, as your family's belongings are sure to grow over time, but less of that now, we have a whole section on storage towards the end.
Ultimately, the key to successful living room design is to create a space that works for your family's current needs while also being adaptable for the future. With a little planning and foresight, you can create a living room that you'll love for years to come.
2. Know the Layout
One of the most important aspects of designing your living room is knowing the layout. Before you start decorating or buying furniture, take some time to really understand the space you are working with, while avoiding any surprises or design flaws later down the line. This will help you make the most of the room and create a functional and stylish living area.
Start by deciding where each piece of furniture will be positioned. Think about how you want the room to flow and where each item will fit best. Consider the size and shape of the furniture and how it will fit in relation to the other pieces in the room.
Once you have a rough idea of the furniture layout, you can then start planning your radiator, socket, and lighting layouts. By knowing where each piece of furniture will be positioned, you can determine where the row of pendants needs to hang, if a radiator will be in the way, and where you'll require sockets for computers and other devices.
Don't be afraid to get creative and try some DIY projects to personalize your living room. Whether it's painting an accent wall or creating your own custom shelving unit, DIY projects can add a unique touch to your space and make it truly your own.
3. Be Mindful of Wall Space
When designing your living room, it is important to be mindful of the space you have available. It can be easy to get caught up in all the ideas and inspiration for your renovation, but it's crucial to consider the actual size of the room. Leaving yourself some wall space is key, as it provides an opportunity to fix wall panelling, hang art or place furniture against it. In an open-plan layout, it's easy to run out of walls, so be sure to plan ahead.
Another aspect to consider is the placement of windows. While it may be tempting to put a window on every external wall, it's important to resist this urge. Instead, carefully plan your views to make the most of the garden or landscape beyond. Avoid placing windows that look out onto unappealing side passages or areas of your property.
Being aware of your space ensures that your living room will feel balanced and well-designed. It allows for proper flow and functionality within the room. So, as you embark on your living room renovation, remember to consider the size and layout of the space, and make the most of it by thoughtfully planning your wall space and window placement.
4. Gear Up
When it comes to designing your living room, having the right hardware is essential. You'll want to make sure you have everything you need to build the foundation of your space.
Firstly, think about your flooring. Whether you're opting for hardwood, laminate, or carpet, make sure you have enough floorboards to cover the area. Additionally, consider the skirting boards that will frame your walls and give your room a polished look.
Next, take into account your window areas. Window boards are an important element to consider, as they provide a finishing touch and can also serve as a functional space for decor or plants.
Once you've decided on your wall colour or wallpaper, make sure you have the appropriate paint or wallpaper supplies on hand. This includes brushes, rollers, and trays for painting, as well as adhesive and smoothing tools for wallpapering.
In addition to the essential hardware, think about any other accessories or fixtures you may want to incorporate. This could include curtain rods, lighting fixtures, and shelving units.
By gathering all the necessary hardware before you start your living room design, you'll be able to streamline the process and avoid any delays or surprises along the way. Plus, having everything ready to go will make the execution of your design vision that much easier and more efficient.
Remember, the hardware is the backbone of your living room design, so make sure to gear up and gather all the necessary materials before you begin.
5. Going Green?
When it comes to designing your living room, it's not just about creating a stylish and comfortable space. It's also important to consider the impact your choices have on the environment. Going green in your living room is not only good for the planet, but it can also save you money in the long run.
One way to go green in your living room is by investing in smart technology. If you're already making changes to your heating or lighting system, take the opportunity to install smart devices that can be controlled remotely from a computer or mobile phone. These intelligent systems can even adapt and react to your preferences, adjusting the temperature or lighting based on how you use them. Not only will this enhance your living room experience, but it will also help you save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
In addition to smart technology, there are plenty of other DIY ideas you can incorporate into your living room design to make it more eco-friendly. Consider using sustainable materials for furniture and flooring, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood. Opt for energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs. Use eco-friendly paints and finishes that are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) to improve indoor air quality.
By going green in your living room design, you can create a space that is not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally friendly. So why not take the extra step to ensure your home runs efficiently in the future? With these DIY ideas and smart technology, you can design a living room that is both stylish and sustainable.
6. Colour Schemes
Choosing the right colour scheme for your living room is crucial in creating the desired atmosphere and style. Whether you prefer a vibrant and energetic space or a calm and relaxing ambience, the colour scheme you select can greatly impact the overall feel of the room.
One popular colour scheme for living rooms is the neutral palette. Shades of beige, white, and grey are timeless and versatile, making them perfect for any style of cosy room design. This colour scheme allows for flexibility in decorating, as you can easily incorporate different accent colours through furniture, rugs, and accessories. It also creates a soothing and calming atmosphere, perfect for creating a cosy and inviting space.
If you're looking for a more bold and dramatic living room, consider using a monochromatic colour scheme. This involves using different shades of the same colour to create depth and visual interest. For example, using varying shades of blue can create a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. This scheme works well with modern or contemporary room designs and can be complemented with metallic accents for a touch of glamour.
Another popular palette for living rooms is the complementary scheme. This involves using colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel, such as blue and orange or purple and yellow. This creates a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, perfect for those who want to make a statement with their room design. It's important to balance the colours and use them in moderation to avoid overwhelming the space.
Overall, the colour scheme you choose for your living room should reflect your personal style and the desired atmosphere you want to create. Take into consideration the size of the room, the amount of natural light, and the style of furniture and accessories you plan to use. By carefully selecting the right colour scheme, you can create a stunning and inviting space that truly reflects your individuality.
7. Natural Light
Natural light is a crucial element when it comes to designing a living room. Not only does it bring a sense of warmth and openness, but it also has a significant impact on the overall ambience of the space. Upgrading windows to maximize natural light can transform a dull and dreary room into a bright and inviting sanctuary.
One way to enhance natural light in your living room is through DIY renovations. Consider installing larger windows or adding skylights to allow more sunlight to flood in. This simple yet effective upgrade can completely change the feel of the room, making it appear larger and more vibrant. Also, be sure to select the right window boards to compliment your skirting and architrave.
When designing the layout of your living room, be mindful of the windows' position. Placing seating arrangements near windows can not only provide an excellent spot for relaxation and reading but also allows you to bask in the natural light.
Furthermore, natural light plays a crucial role in choosing colour schemes for your living room. Light-filled spaces often benefit from cooler, lighter shades that enhance the brightness. Conversely, darker shades may be more suitable for rooms with limited natural light.
By incorporating natural light into your living room design, you create a welcoming and comfortable space that is conducive to relaxation and socialization. So, make the most of this free and beautiful resource, and watch as your living room transforms into a sanctuary bathed in sunlight.
8. Don't Ignore the Floor
When it comes to designing a living room, the floor is often an afterthought. We tend to focus on the furniture, colour scheme, and layout, forgetting that the floor plays a crucial role in the overall design. However, neglecting the floor can be a costly mistake.
First and foremost, consider the practicality of the flooring material. While a wooden floor may be visually appealing in a living room, it may not be the most practical choice if you have pets or young children. On the other hand, carpet may provide a softer and more comfortable feel, but it can be more difficult to clean and maintain.
Another factor to consider is the durability of the flooring. In high-traffic areas like the hallway or entryway, a more hardwearing option like tiles or laminate may be a better choice. This will ensure that your floor can withstand daily wear and tear without showing signs of damage.
Additionally, don't forget about the impact of skirting boards and dado rails on the overall room design. These architectural elements can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your living room. Consider incorporating them into your design to create a seamless and polished look.
New to this? Don't worry, we have guide on how to fit skirting boards, how to fit architrave as well as how to hide cables using rebated skirting boards.
9. Storage
Storage... It's one of the most overlooked aspects, yet it is crucial to have a functional and organised space to avoid clutter and promote relaxation. Storage doesn't have to be boring either – it can be incorporated into the overall room design to complement the aesthetic.
Start by assessing the available space in the living room and identifying underused areas that could be repurposed for storage. This could include built-in shelves, cabinets or drawers. If you're planning a renovation, consider adding built-in storage units to maximise the space.
Don't forget about vertical space too – bookcases and shelving units that go up to the ceiling provide ample storage without taking up too much floor space. You can even get creative and use decorative storage boxes or baskets to add a stylish touch while hiding clutter.
Another often neglected storage space is below the stairs. While it may be tempting to use it as a general storage cupboard, it's a great opportunity to create customised storage solutions like drawers and cupboards.
Remember, a well-designed living room is both stylish and practical, and incorporating proper storage solutions is key to achieving both.
10. Final Touches
Once you have finalized the major design elements of your living room, it's time to add those finishing touches that make the space truly yours. Decor plays a huge role in the overall feel of a room, so be sure to carefully select items that complement your existing colour scheme and style. Consider adding statement pieces, such as bold art or unique furniture, to add character and interest to your space.
If you're stuck for ideas, turn to home design magazines or online resources for inspiration. Another great way to add personal flair to your living room is through accessories, such as cushions, throws and curtains. Choose items that not only add style to your space but also offer practical benefits, such as warmth and comfort.
Lastly, consider investing in good lighting, both natural and artificial, to highlight key features of your room design and create the right mood for any occasion. When it comes to decorating a living room, the possibilities are endless, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a space that is not only stylish and functional but also reflects you.