An interior decorator shares insights on common design mistakes to avoid in your living room for a more cohesive and comfortable space.
One crucial aspect to consider is the size of your rug. A small rug can make your furniture appear as if it’s floating and may cause the room to feel cramped. It’s advisable to select a rug that extends beyond your sofa by 6 to 8 inches on either side, providing a grounded appearance to the furniture arrangement and creating a sense of spaciousness.
Futons, often selected for their practicality, might not offer the comfort one expects in a living room. These lightweight pieces usually have narrower seats and firmer cushions compared to standard sofas. While futons work well in home offices or flex spaces, a sleeper sofa is a better option for doubling your living room as a guest area, offering both style and comfort.
Vertical plastic blinds are another design choice to reconsider. Their tendency to bend and tear easily, along with cumbersome operation, makes them less than ideal. Instead, consider investing in wooden or shutter blinds, or even light-filtering shades, to enhance privacy, light control, and aesthetic value.
Maintaining distinct areas for work and relaxation is crucial, especially with the rise of home-based work. Combining your workspace with your living area, such as using the coffee table for both tasks and leisure, can blur boundaries and hinder relaxation. It is beneficial to create separate zones within a limited space to ensure a clear distinction between work and leisure environments.
When it comes to lighting, relying solely on overhead fixtures can create a harsh and unwelcoming atmosphere. Incorporating a variety of lighting sources at different heights, along with dimmer switches and warm-toned bulbs, can transform your living room into a calming retreat.
Exposed wires can disrupt the visual harmony of a living room. While mounting your TV or using wall sconces can enhance the space, visible wires can create an unfinished look. Cord-concealing tracks matching the wall color are a simple solution, or consider using a TV stand to keep electronics neatly organized.
Purchasing furniture based solely on appearance can lead to discomfort. For spaces meant for relaxation, comfort should be prioritized. Furniture such as couches with narrow armrests or rigid chairs may look appealing but might not invite guests to relax fully.
Gallery walls, though popular, can sometimes overstimulate if not carefully curated. It’s often better to choose one large art piece to make a bold statement. If a gallery wall is preferred, using uniform frames and coordinated colors can create a unified look.
Sectionals with loose back cushions may require constant adjustment, presenting a maintenance challenge. Opting for couches with attached cushions can reduce the need for frequent rearrangement and maintanence, providing a more conservative choice.
Typical throw blankets, often small in size, may not provide the desired warmth or coverage. Larger or twin-sized blankets offer more comfort and versatility, especially in a living area that receives guests.
Incorporating these insights into your living room design can enhance comfort and aesthetic appeal, creating a harmonious environment that suits your lifestyle.
Source: Businessinsider
