When it comes to dressing your dining room, it can be easy to go over the top with tablescaping and too many details.

But, if you want to keep things chic and refined, Eva Longoria's space is a beautiful example of how a little can go a long way. I've asked interior designers why her material choices, lighting ideas, and floral centerpieces work so well, and how you can recreate the look at home.

For those looking for dining room ideas that will stand the test of time, Eva's space has so many beautiful details.

The first thing that stands out for me in Eva’s narrow dining room is the use of high-quality materials, as they create an inviting space.

“The wood dining table and chairs are simple yet neat, with curved lines that make guests want to stay and chat over a home-cooked meal,” explains Aaron Alway, design expert and founder of BLDG Custom Homes.

Thinking about trying this in your home? Go for a solid wood table with a natural or slightly distressed finish, such as one from a secondhand furniture store. “Rectangle is the way to go if you want that ‘come one, come all’ vibe,” says Angelique Kreller, interior designer at Yabby. “If you want this in your home, learn from Eva, and let the gorgeous wood grain do the talking.”

She also makes the most out of her dining room lighting, with Eva choosing dimmable pendants, which are ideal for providing a dreamy glow for intimate dinners. “I often recommend pendant lights to my clients, as they create dramatic shadows and highlights that bring warmth to a space,” Aaron adds.

All of these simple features allow the biggest decor piece to really shine. “The big vase of flowers in the center of the table is the cherry on top in this room,” says Angelique. “The height gives the room some dimension, which is great for the effortlessly chic aesthetic Eva is going for here.”

“Seasonal blooms in jewel colors are a go-to recommendation I make to create stylish statements in my own designs,” adds Aaron. Jewel tones are also one of the bigger interior color trends this year.

If you want to try this out in your space, Angelique suggests filling a large and simple vase with your flower of choice (real or fake), such as hydrangeas or lilies.

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By utilizing natural materials, chic lighting, and seasonal blooms, you too can create a space that’s stylish and livable.

“Eva has achieved a balance of comfort and drama that can be recreated at home with the right furnishings and accessories,” Aaron finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out the star’s house? I’m also a fan of Eva Longoria’s kitchen cabinets which are so on-trend.

It's time to ditch the gray's, greens and blues and consider pink in your living room instead. It's a beautiful color that has plenty of possibilities – from deep magenta to barely their blush, there really is something for everyone. 

Easy on the eye and it a color that works fabulously with other colors, it really is a good option for a living room. 

Our pink living room ideas below, complete with expert advice, will help you consider this lovely shade and show you how to use it. 

1. Rose is great with gray

There's something comforting about pink, and this lovely shade of rose has gray undertones, which is why it works so well with this gray couch.

"Pink is one of my favourite colors as it’s extremely versatile; we have many shades of pink in our collections because it looks great in so many rooms in the home," says Francesca Wezel, founder, Francesca's Paints. 

A calming colour associated with love, kindness and femininity, Francesca says, "Adding a splash of pink to your home will create a welcoming, serene environment. Pink is also a good choice for the home as it is said to represent hospitality."

Copy this pink with Francesca's Artemisia's Pink, a lovely chalky shade. 

2. Team a bold shade with lime

Embrace the brights and choose a lime green couch to go with your rich pink walls.

"My client already owned the vibrant apple green sofa. She requested a continuation of bold, bright colors. Among the fabric samples I showed her for decorative pillows was one from GP & Baker, which she adored. Drawing inspiration from this sample, I coordinated all the colors to harmonize together," says Theresa Butler, principal and founder of Theresa Butler Interiors. 

Want to use this shade in your living room? "The paint color, Sherwin Williams 6306 Cordial, a rich and deep shade of hot pink, was an ideal selection for extending the maximalism of color and pattern," adds Theresa. 

3. Or keep it simple

If the thought of painting your walls pink feels a little too much then choose pink furniture instead. 

A pale pink sectional will give you enough 'pink' to see if you like it and it does look great with white. Team it with an antique rug with a pink background and see how you like it. If it lights up up then consider painting  your walls too.

Alix Day, founder of Alix Day Architecture and Design explains what pink is a great option, "Pink plays so well with many neutrals- – blue, greys, black and even beiges. Pink is the piece you bring in to add the drama the space is lacking, soften the room or add whimsy. It's finding the right pink undertone that complements the neutrals around it."

Want to copy this look? Have a look at our buys here. 

4. Blush lifts a space

If you're tired of neutrals but love that pale tone it brings to a space then a blush pink is a great option. 

"Softer shades like Masquerade add a delicate pink touch which brings a natural warmth to a room, without being too strong, " says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. 

There's a misconception that blush pink can't be contemporary – team it with black and white accessories in interesting shapes and you'll create a scheme that's fresh and modern. 

5. Create a statement with a neon pink

Not for the faint hearted, this amazingly bold neon pink paint color is punchy and bold. 

“Bright pink paints can elevate your living room and create an inviting atmosphere. When used for larger areas, shades like FTT-006, a dramatic dark pink from our Upcycled Collection, a palette made from unwanted leftover paints and materials, create a cheerful and warming impact," explains Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. 

When using a color this bright you need to create balance elsewhere, so neutral furniture is key – white or oatmeal chairs and couches, creamy rugs and wooden side and coffee tables will do the trick. 

6. Choose three shades

Can't decide on one particular pink shade? Then use more than one – nothing beats a great color blocking scheme and pink is a fabulous way to achieve it. We asked Helen Shaw, director of marketing (international) at Benjamin Moore for her advice on using pink:

"From blush through to coral and fuchsia, pink paint offers a surprising range of shades. It's a hue that has a sophisticated side with soft and muted blush tones that are perfect for livingspaces. To create a vibrant, uplifting modern look and feel experiment with monochromatic pairings, using subtly different shades of pink to deliver an underlying harmony to your scheme."

Here we have three wonderful pink shades, all from Benjamin Moore, see below to recreate this look in your living room.

7. Choose a hint of pink

A literal hint of color is sometimes all your need, it will be enough to soften the space and prevent it from becoming too stark.

"If you prefer a softer ambience, shades like Early Lavender No. 260 provide a calm, pastel backdrop that brings a sense of interest and nuance to your living room," says Dominic Myland.

You can add bright color with accessories instead which you can mix and match with, like patterned cushions and artwork. Wayfair's 3 Pieces Henri Matisse Prints will look great on this shade of pinky lavender. 

8. Opt for a shocking pink to create a statement

Create a color drenched focal point by painting your wall and fire surround in a deep pink. "For a bolder approach why not consider a striking pink such as ‘Leather’, this arresting color gives instant design impact and is an energising colour which is perfect for this most social space in the home. To maintain the balance, combine with a fresh white such as ‘Loft White’ which will temper the heat of this deep and evocative shade," explains Ruth Mottershead. 

Team it with a jet black side table for an edgy feel, Walmart's Cerbior Metal Tray End Table is a great buy and ideal for this scheme. 

Pink is one of those colors that has lots of potential and choice. From the palest hint of color to the deepest rich shades of magenta and scarlett, it's a really good option if you want to create a warm fun scheme. 

Our pink living room ideas will give you plenty of scope so you can introduce this fabulous color into your space. 

I've been obsessed with Olivia Rodrigo's home decorating game for ages. She has a style that's sleek and timeless, yet still showcases her personality.

This time around I'm loving her living room, which she sat down in while chatting with Vogue for its 73 Questions series. I've asked interior designers why her color choices, throw pillows, and bookcase work so well and how you can replicate the Drivers License singer's look at home.

For those on the hunt for playful and pretty living room ideas, Olivia's space has plenty of cool and characterful touches from which to draw inspiration.

Olivia Rodrigo’s living room mixes together modern and traditional details, with details that anyone can incorporate into their own space (apart from the Grammys, of course).

“Olivia’s gray couch is the star of the room. It’s understated yet sophisticated, and the color is a great alternative to tones like black or beige,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

This is elevated by her choice of throw pillows. “I love that there's a really fun and youthful mix of colors and textures; the sofa has such a warm and inviting look while also feeling decidedly curated,” says Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home.

Mixing light and dark shades like Olivia's is a wonderful way to create a cozy yet contemporary feel.

All of this is complemented by the mid-century modern shelving — a design style Olivia Rodrigo’s dining room also has.

“What I love about this is how it’s styled — Olivia has a mix of books, personal items, and awards all arranged in a way that’s clean but still personal,” says Rachel. “The balance is key here - there’s enough on display to tell a story, but not so much that it feels cluttered.”

If you’re recreating this look, Rachel recommends choosing a solid wood bookcase with clean lines, and when styling it, alternate between books and decorative items. “Don’t feel like you need to fill every inch of space — sometimes less is more,” she adds.

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The singer’s home is filled with thoughtful touches that are easy to replicate.

“It's apparent that Olivia feels comfortable in her style and color choices and that she cares about her home looking great as well as feeling really relaxed and livable."

Want to carry on scouting out the star’s home? I’m also a fan of Olivia Rodrigo’s quite luxury kitchen. Or, if you just love her albums’ vibes, we’ve created an Olivia Rodrigo decor edit.

I think the living room is the most important room of a house. It's the room that guests see the most, so it has got to have major wow-factor. Dakota Fanning clearly agrees with me, as her one has plenty of eye-catching features.

With the actor's new movie The Watchers coming out, I took the opportunity to have a look through her Instagram and stumbled across a gorgeous picture of her living room. I've asked interior designers why her pop of unexpected red, mural, open layout and more work so well, plus how to get the look at home.

If you're looking for living room ideas that are easy to do yet oh-so-elegant, Dakota's place offers so much inspiration.

Dakota’s room is sophisticated yet inviting, thanks to its balance of bold colors with nature-inspired elements, which is encouraged by a subtle red, white, and blue theme.

“The living room features a deep blue fireplace mantel and wainscoting that extends into the dining room, adding a cohesive sense of depth and elegance to the space,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“This is beautifully contrasted by a large, plush red couch that injects a bold, vibrant energy into the space,” Nina adds.

This is a great example of the unexpected red theory, which is one of the biggest interior design trends this year. “To get a similar look, choose a colorful sofa or armchair and build the room's palette around it,” suggests Bob Berriz, interior designer and owner of Berriz Design.

Above the fireplace, a large artwork in shades of red, white, and blue anchors the space, subtly echoing the room’s color scheme. “Flanked by white-shaded sconces, the piece draws attention without overwhelming the room, serving as a tasteful focal point,” Nina explains.

Moving across from this, the dining room walls are adorned with a stunning tree-filled landscape mural. Nina continues, “The mural’s organic feel is perfectly complemented by a burlwood dining table, which adds warmth and texture to the room.”

For small rooms, Bob says strategically placed accent walls or murals draw the eye, creating an illusion of more space.

This is all beautifully highlighted by the striking chandelier hanging above, which is a smart way to make a small space look luxe. “The chandelier, while eye-catching, is designed not to compete with the mural, instead allowing the art and furniture to shine,” Nina explains.

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In Dakota Fanning’s living room, every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

“This has resulted in a space that is as stylish as it is comfortable — a true reflection of her refined taste and appreciation for the beauty of nature,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on looking at luxe-looking spaces? I also love Lewis Hamilton’s living room, which deserves a place on the interior design podium.

Reese Witherspoon has a bold yet practical design aesthetic that I absolutely love. She's brought this approach to her dining table tablescaping, which balanced bright colors and classic dinnerware perfectly.

I've seen tablescaping everywhere this year, with so many people making their tables sing with style. So, I've asked interior designers why Reese's table decor works so well, why tablescaping is so popular at the moment, and how to recreate the look at home.

If you're looking for easy interior design trends to try in your home, this one is a great one to try, as it's sure to dazzle guests whenever they come over.

Just like the rest of her home, Reese Witherspoon’s dining table brings together Southern Charm and modern elegance.

“Natural woven placemats and cup holders echo the table’s warm wood tones, grounding the setting with a rustic touch that feels both organic and chic,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Topped with simple white dishware, the place settings show perfect contrast, with neutral tones playing against the natural textures beneath them,” she explains.

She also loves the clear glass wine glasses and vases that add a bit of sparkle, reflecting the golden hues of the flowers scattered artfully across the table. “The clear glass vases, one tall and one shorter, create a dynamic centerpiece, while the small glass candle vessels that bookend them bring a cozy, inviting glow.”

I also love the scattered oranges and lemons on the table, which are a brilliant example of Eurosummer dinnerware. “They infuse the table with a lively pop of color, tying the entire scene together in a celebration of summer’s bounty,” Nina adds. You could also add indoor plants to add a natural touch.

The whole set-up is a tablescaping dream — but why is this such a big deal right now?

“It’s an easy way to showcase personal style, and unlike a full room makeover, it doesn’t require a major commitment,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“Plus, with the rise of more casual and intimate gatherings post-pandemic, people are focusing on making every meal a special occasion, even if it’s just dinner for two at home,” she adds. It's also one of the biggest Pinterest summer trends, FYI.

When setting up for a dinner party, Rachel also adores using what’s in season because it makes the table feel alive and current. “Plus, those citrus accents can double as a snack or garnish — talk about multitasking décor!”

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Every detail, from the natural textures to the bright, citrusy accents, is thoughtfully chosen.

“These all combine to create a dining experience that feels both luxurious and lived-in — a true reflection of Reese Witherspoon’s signature style,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out the Legally Blonde star’s home? I also love Reese Witherspoon’s kitchen, which is filled with smart kitchen storage solutions.

If you fancy a more individual look that represents your personality then do consider an eclectic scheme. It's about mixing different styles, from vintage to modern in the same room and not worrying too much about clashing colors and prints. 

Not too dissimilar to maximalism, it's about choosing what you love the most, though creating an eclectic look is a little more refined and less intense. It's about choosing pieces you love even if they're from different eras – a wing-backed chair from a flea market teamed with a large modernist painting from your favorite gallery. You can mix and match to suit you.

Explore our eclectic living room ideas below – from gorgeous color schemes to vintage finds and bold prints, we've got plenty of inspiration. 

1. Clashing colors

Teaming colors together that on paper might not work is one aspect of creating an eclectic living room. This bold red and pink interior is striking and offset perfectly by the monochromatic rug.

Pick seating that's individual too – we love this modern chair and footstool, matching up furniture is not really a thing with this look!

Check out the paint colors here – the red is Romesco No.CB4 and the pink is Shallot No.CB3, both Farrow & Ball. The rug is Ikea's Stockholm design, it's one of their classics and we can see why!

2. Use a bright accent color

This dark blue living room is totally unique and full of one-off antique finds – the stunning mahogany armchairs teamed with a vintage chandelier (check out Wayfair's Amiaha dimmable chandelier) are the epitome of eclectic design.

We love the yellow accent in the form of the modern couch it ties in perfectly with the yellow elements of the modern artwork above the mantel. Add in a flea market rug and some gilt-framed art and you have a characterful living room.

3. Mix and match your accessories

Bold and beautiful, this eclectic living room shows how you can mix up your accessories successfully to create a space that's full of prints and patterns. 

Keep your main colors simple like the pink walls and lime green couch and add in couch pillows, gilt frames, and lamps. We love the touch of monochrome in this living room, it pares down the look a little. 

To copy this bright living room have a look at out top three buys below. 

4. Choose one main color

If you love bright colors then pick one main shade and then fill the rest of the space with patterns and bright accents that suit you and your family's taste. 

"The family who lives here is a lot of fun – I mean, the parents let their kids use razor scooters in the house! They’re an exuberant bunch, so there was no question color was going to play an important role in reflecting their personalities," advises Martin Horner, co-founder and principal, Soucie Horner.

Think of your chosen color as your blank canvas, Martin adds, "This deep turquoise is the perfect backdrop to one of the cozier rooms in the apartment. It’s an exciting color, but it’s also calming in the same way all blues are calming, which is very appropriate in a room meant for curling up with a good book."

For a similar couch cushion have a look at Anthropologie's velvet frame pillow in raspberry, it also comes in turquoise. 

5. Go for a painterly approach

For calming and creative eclectic living room ideas choose a color palette that has some pastel shades and a hint of yellow. 

This adorable cottage-style living room has blush pink walls, a blue and pink upholstered couch, and a hand-painted fireplace and lampshade. These elements really offer an individual and artistic feel to this relaxing space. 

To recreate this painterly living room have a look at our buys below. 

6. You can be eclectic in an all white space

An eclectic living room doesn't need to be dark in color, in fact, an all-white scheme can form the basis of a successful look.

It's about the elements you add in that make a space work, Michelle Murphy, founder, Demi Ryan Interiors says, "Eclectic living spaces blend diverse styles, colors, and textures, creating a unique, personalized environment that reflects individual tastes and stories. They work well because this mix-and-match approach allows for creativity and flexibility, resulting in a dynamic, harmonious space that feels both curated and comfortable."

7. Layer your materials

An eclectic look can be achieved by the materials and textures you use in your living room. This elegant space uses velvet, metal, earthenware, and wood to great effect, each piece has a story and some are modern, while others are unique one-off buys. This is what makes up an eclectic living room.

Although there's an element of symmetry in here which we love, there's personality to this space. 

Nordstrom has a great range of accessories like the Pacino Abstract Statue and Highland View Framed Art Print that has similar colors to this sophisticated living room. 

8. Utilize your walls

Creating an eclectic living room isn't just about the furniture, it's also about what you put on your walls and floors. 

In a small living room you can make the most of your wall space and hang wall storage units in various configurations to display your one-off finds and personal knick-knacks.

Ikea has a great selection of open and closed storage for exactly this purpose – we really like the EKET range shown here as it comes in a good selection of colors, , you could even paint them inside to add more of a unique look. 

9. Team old and new

According to Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, an eclectic interior doesn't always have to be loud or over-the-top. "You can mix old and new elements subtly by pairing vintage furniture with modern decor in muted tones. Picture a contemporary curved sofa alongside vintage chairs, set against a wallpaper that nods to the past but with a modern twist."

We love this concept and it really is the key to creating an eclectic living room that works from a design point of view. Jamie adds, "The result is a harmonious blend that feels both timeless and fresh, with just the right touch of character."  

Copy this sleek pendant light with Anthropologie's Mitzi Hikari Chandelier, it's striking with its sculptural shape and deliberately placed lights.

Be inspired by our eclectic living room ideas, each one is different and will guide you to creating your own unique space. Look for one-off finds in antiques stores and flea markets – it's these key pieces that make a room look eclectic and full of character. 

When it comes to couches, it can be hard to find ones that tick all the boxes when it comes to color, style, and comfort. I think that Selena Gomez's has done this perfectly, though.

She posted an adorable pic of her relaxing with her beau on it and I fell in love with the dusky color. I've asked interior designers why that it works so well and how you can style this sort of couch in your own place.

If you're looking to bring living room trends into your home, going bold on color and personality like Selena is worth giving a go.

The Only Murders in the Building actor has brought in playful dusky pink, showing that this color is here to stay beyond the Barbiecore trend boom last year.

"Depending on how you style it, light pink can absolutely function as a neutral — and here, rendered in luxe velvet, Selena uses this subtle hue to make a super-chic design statement,” explains Kathy Kuo, interior designer at Kathy Kuo Home.

She continues, “I love how the pink color and rich velvet texture play off one another for an effect that is luxurious, but also very cozy and livable.”

Velvet is known for its luxurious texture, which adds depth and richness to any piece of furniture. “It invites comfort, making it an ideal choice for a living room where relaxation is paramount,” adds Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

For those looking to style a similar couch in their own homes, you can do so in a variety of ways.

“I'd style this sofa with warm neutral-toned throw pillows, and toss a cashmere throw blanket over the side for a contrast in textures,” Kathy says.

Rachel agrees, adding, “This will allow the couch to stand out as a focal point without overwhelming the space.”

She continues, “Incorporating metallic or wooden accents can add contrast and visual interest in the living room.” Some of the biggest coffee table trends this year include sustainable materials like these.

As well as this, Rachel says to ensure the room receives ample natural light to highlight the beautiful color and texture of the velvet fabric.

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Selena Gomez's pink velvet couch is a beautiful example of how this playful shade can look sleek and sophisticated.

“By following these styling tips, you can bring in a similar piece and create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal style,” Rachel finishes by saying.

Want to scout out more of her home? I also love Selena Gomez’s bathroom, which is so Parisian-chic.

Are you having a brat summer? The artist behind the iconic album that's taking the world by storm gave Architectural Digest a look inside her Los Angeles home. 

We can't get enough of her vintage-meets-modern style and interior designers agree. Experts are raving about her unique color palette, eccentric designs, and lived-in feel.

See what the pros think of her cozy abode with these fresh living room ideas, sure to make an impact in any sized space. 

Look inside Charli XCX's living room

Even if you're in a small living room, Charli XCX's space is full of design inspiration. Inside her 1927 Tudor-inspired home, you can find a cozy living room complete with dark wooden beams, white textured walls, and hardwood floors. 

But the old-fashioned design elements don't stop her from achieving a modern look. Charli modernized her living room with pops of color and bold patterns. 

"Charli's living room embraces a maximalist aesthetic with bold colors, patterns, and textures. The room is filled with vibrant artwork, plush velvet furniture, and shiny metallic accents," says Rachel Stringer of Raleigh Realty.

"The decor in Charli's living room combines various styles, including mid-century modern, art deco, and contemporary elements. This eclectic mix creates a unique and visually interesting space," says Rachel.

Adding a mixture of styles also makes a living room look more luxurious, according to designers. 

"The room seamlessly integrates contemporary and vintage-inspired furniture as seen by a combination of different styles for a curated personalized look. A range of textures like plush velvet fabrics and sleek glossy surfaces give depth and luxury thereby emphasizing texture as an important element within modern interiors," says Nitya Seth, an interior designer at NITYANAMYA. 

How to recreate the look

Achieving Charli's look starts with refreshing your living room and adding more life to the room. It's all about balancing styles so one look isn't too overwhelming. If you're in a period home, try adding some modern decor buys and if you're somewhere more contemporary, look for vintage designs.

"Mix and match furniture and accessories from different eras and genres. A vintage-inspired armchair paired with a modern coffee table can add depth and character to the room," says Rachel. 

If you're investing in a statement piece, find pieces in contrasting colors and patterns that will add dimension and visual interest. 

"Spend money on a couch made from patterned velvet and mix it with different kinds of furniture that will add color to your room," says Nitya.

When decorating your living room with some of the best home brands, it's important to remember your personal tastes and preferences are at the forefront. Charli's living room displays her style and personality through color and design.

"To recreate the look of Charli XCX's living room, focus on incorporating bold colors, patterns, and textures, mixing different styles, layering lighting, and adding personalized touches. Remember, the key is to create a space that reflects your unique style and personality while embracing the maximalist and eclectic trends seen in Charli's decor," says Rachel.

Just like the rest of the world, I've been keeping a close eye on the Olympics, and one of the highlights of this so far has been watching Simone Biles scoop up plenty of medals.

I had a little look on her TikTok, spotted a video of her dancing in her living room, and really fell for the casual yet luxe look she's got going on. I've asked interior designers why her couch, cozy blanket, paneled walls, and more work so well in the space.

If you're looking for living room ideas that are as beautiful as they are practical, Simone's space offers plenty of inspiration.

The world-renowned gymnast, known for her grace and strength, has brought the same qualities into her home decor. 

“Her living room is a stunning example of cozy elegance, combining contemporary touches with a warm, inviting atmosphere,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

The focal point of Simone Biles' living room is a large gray couch, offering ample living room seating for family and friends.

“Its soft, neutral hue provides a versatile foundation that can easily adapt to different decor styles,” says Nina. “Draped over the back is a light gray chunky throw, adding a layer of texture and warmth.”

She says this combination invites you to sink into the couch and relax, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after a long day or hosting intimate gatherings.

One of the standout features in Simone's living room is the white shiplap accent wall behind the TV, which is mounted above the stylish living room fireplace.

“The wood-paneled walls add architectural interest while giving the illusion of a larger space. For smaller homes, painting one accent wall or adding simple wood trim can achieve a similar stylish effect,” says Pam Hutter, interior designer and principal of Hutter Architects.

Nina agrees, adding that the TV's placement above the fireplace optimizes space and maintains a clean, streamlined look, while the light wood mantel below ties back to the room's flooring.

She continues, “The light wood floors in Simone's living room are a key element in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their natural finish adds a touch of organic beauty, complementing the light wood mantel and enhancing the overall sense of harmony in the space.”

This is all tied together by the chic ceiling fan. “Its sleek design complements the room's modern elements, such as the gray couch and shiplap wall, while its functionality ensures comfort throughout the year,” Nina says.

If you’re a homeowner and are looking for ways to keep a room cool, investing in one of these is a smart long-term solution. 

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By combining these elements, Simone has created a living room that is both stylish and inviting, reflecting her personal taste and the qualities that have made her a champion. 

“This space is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, with it being not only beautiful but also a true sanctuary,” Nina finishes by saying.

Looking for more celeb room inspo? I’m also a fan of Lewis Hamilton’s living room, which has plenty of quiet luxury touches.

When Blake Lively is on the red carpet, she's known for her glitzy and glamorous looks. Inside her home is a different story — here, she craves cozy comforts and snug textures.

I've asked interior design pros why her living room works so well, delving into her beautiful brick walls, sophisticated lighting, and plush seating and finding out how to get the look at home for an A-List finish.

If you're looking for living room ideas and want to go down the rustic yet refined route like Blake, her place offers plenty of inspiration.

One of the best ways to create a luxurious and elegant living room is by mixing different elements and textures. 

“The natural wood column and wide plank floors in Blake Lively's living room create a foundation of warmth and organic charm,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design. “These elements add texture and visual interest while grounding the space in natural beauty.”

This is complemented by the rustic brick accent wall, which gives the space character with its raw texture and earthy tones.

“It contrasts beautifully with the smooth surfaces elsewhere in the room, adding depth and dimension,” Nina adds.

It’s not just the structural features that make this space beautiful, though — it’s also the thoughtful living room lighting, decor, and furnishings. 

“I love how these elements are perfectly balanced — for example, the chandelier is not too flashy, but instead, serves as a focal point and brings in a touch of sophistication,” explains Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of HALO Homebuyers.

She has also added in light brown and gray furnishings, which Nina says helps add to the soft and serene atmosphere.  

Jonathan says, “My recommendation is to select a neutral color palette for your walls and larger furniture pieces such as sofas and armchairs.”

“This will create a blank canvas for you to add in different textures and elements such as exposed bricks, plush fabrics, and natural wood accents, like Blake,” he adds.

He also advises pairing together rustic elements with more glitzy ones, in order to make your small space look more luxe. “For instance, you can add a rustic wooden coffee table and pair it with a plush velvet couch,” Jonathan explains.

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By incorporating these elements and principles inspired by Blake Lively's living room, you can create a space that’s wonderful and warm.

“Whether you're redesigning your current living room or starting fresh in a new home, embracing this look will make your space look refined and relaxed,” Nina finishes by saying.

Seeking out more celeb inspiration? I love Sabrina Carpenter’s living space, thanks to its Scandi and sleek style.

Sabrina Carpenter is one of pop's newest princesses, and is known for hit tunes like Espresso, her playful Nonsense outros, and her bright and bold stage outfits.

When having a scroll on TikTok, I was surprised to see that her living room interior is very pared back — but I'm in love. I've asked design pros why her Scandi style works so well and asked them how to recreate the look with soft textures, warm tones, and clever storage techniques.

If you're looking for living room ideas that are simple but seriously inviting, Sabrina Carpenter's space offers plenty of inspiration.

While I’m a sucker for a tub of ice cream, in Sabrina Carpenter’s living room I’m much more interested in the interior that surrounds her.

“Central to the room is a stunning white waffle textured seat, offering both comfort and a visual anchor,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“The intricate texture of the upholstery adds depth and interest, effortlessly drawing the eye while maintaining the room's tranquil color palette. The white wall behind the seat enhances the sense of openness and light, creating a perfect backdrop for the room’s more vibrant elements,” she adds.

If you’re looking to make a small room appear bigger, choosing light and bright colors like white is a good idea.

“I also like the sideboard, with natural wood grain that adds warmth and a touch of rustic charm, which balances the more modern elements of the room,” adds Tommy Mello, design pro and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

To replicate this look, he suggests choosing a wooden sideboard with a simple design and natural finish. “Look for pieces with clean lines and minimal hardware to keep the focus on the beauty of the wood itself,” he adds.

I'm also a fan of the cube shelves above the sideboard, which offer practical living room storage ideas while adding to the room’s design.

“If you’re incorporating these into your living space, choose units that fit your room’s dimensions and style, then arrange them to create a balanced look, and use them to showcase both decorative items and everyday essentials,” Tommy explains.

These natural textures are complemented by cute candles and prints that add a burst of color and creativity to the space.

“The reddish record player, resting proudly on the sideboard, also not only serves as a nod to Sabrina’s musical roots but introduces a pop of vibrancy and nostalgic charm,” Nina adds. I think the Victrola Retro Bluetooth Record Player from Amazon is similar, is available in four different colors, and comes with a built-in speaker.

Adding personal touches to your home is not only a great way to introduce yourself to guests but is one of the biggest interior design trends this year, with aesthetics like dopamine dressing and the unexpected red theory being everywhere.

Our Sabrina Carpenter living room edit

In Sabrina Carpenter’s living room, texture, color, and personality are beautifully incorporated into a neutral backdrop. 

“The result is a space that is both calming and invigorating, where each piece complements the next, creating a harmonious blend that reflects Sabrina's unique style,” Nina finishes by saying.

Looking for more celeb home inspo? I also love Lewis Hamilton’s living room, which has so many luxe touches.

Dreaming of life by the sea? Then consider a coastal living room to usher in calm, serene, and thoroughly gorgeous ocean-inspired design into your home.

This aesthetic, as detailed by our interior experts, captures the essence of the beach: soft blues, natural materials and textured layering of fabrics and items that bring the natural charm of the coastline indoors. 

It's important to distinguish coastal design from nautical design though as the former focuses on soothing palettes and a chic, refined look without being cliché or kitsch. We chatted with our design pros for 7 ways to bring this top summer decor trend in your living room.

1. Soft shades

Creating a coastal living room is all about embracing shades that mimic a lazy Sunday afternoon at the beach. Think oceanic blues, sandy neutrals, and cool, crisp whites. 

These beachy colors are timeless: chalky blues, sea greens, creams, and tans never go out of style. White walls serve as the perfect backdrop, reflecting natural light to keep the space light and airy. This sectional sofa from Zinus is available in neutral, soft colors.

Megan Siason, founder of M Design Studio says, “Reminiscent of cool beachy breezes, a lighter overall color palette with hints of ocean blues in upholstery and subtle sunset yellow accents are a perfect way to curate a space of calm and airy.”

Whilst stronger colors can be used as accents, the primary palette should remain soft and soothing. Try white washing the walls with a simple brilliant white and working from there. For a broader mix of colors, soft dove grays and pale putty pinks can seamlessly blend into a coastal scheme, adding subtle depth and warmth.

2. Modern touches

If a traditional coastal theme isn’t your style, you can still capture that laid-back beach side vibe with a modern twist. With the right materials, strong blacks in woven pieces can give your living room a chic coastal touch.

Instead of driftwood-inspired furniture, go for sleek rattan designs. Use wood in graphic shapes, and keep the color palette soft and muted to maintain that airy feel. 

This way, you get the relaxed coastal charm with a fresh, contemporary twist. This style looks great when working with an open plan kitchen or a coastal kitchen island design. Modern coastal design lets you enjoy the tranquility of the beach while keeping things stylish and up-to-date.

3. Coastal artwork

Nothing says coastal like seaside-inspired artwork. Go beyond conventional artwork with statement pieces that reflect coastal elements. Incorporate driftwood mirrors, framed coral prints, or curated collections of seashells in shadow boxes to create focal points. 

Consider the rule of thirds for balanced wall arrangements, ensuring each piece enhances the overall aesthetic without overcrowding the space. To bring your whole scheme together, seek out art pieces that capture the essence of relaxed beach side living and if your windows don’t offer an ocean view, consider a large-scale photograph of a stunning beach vista. 

4. Add natural textures

Coastal interior design is all about soft shades, natural weathered materials, and an easy-breezy beach-side vibe. Instead of hiding architectural elements like wood beams, incorporate them into your design. Embrace imperfections such as irregular handmade wooden and rattan furniture, whitewashed walls, jute rugs, and linen coverings. 

Megan says, “Utilizing a variation of textures, from the organic movement in rugs and artwork to the woven finishes on furnishings, to enhance a coastal-inspired living environment." 

Wood is the go-to material for this style, and it only looks better with age due to its natural weathering. Natural woven textures add a rustic beachcomber feel so layering textures is key. Don’t be afraid to mix different elements in a variety of muted shades as this approach creates an inviting, lived-in atmosphere that’s perfect for a coastal-inspired home.

5. Include coastal-inspired treasures

While we've covered the bigger picture, the smaller details are just as important. Ocean-inspired accessories can beautifully tie together a coastal scheme. Combine store-bought items like rattan baskets (we love this nesting rattan basket set from Bed Bath& Beyond) and ceramic pottery with found treasures such as driftwood and seashells for an authentic beachcomber feel. 

Your coffee table, bookcases, and shelves can become valued displays for these coastal treasures. Incorporate elements like storm lanterns, pebbles, and imitation coral (you can also incorporate coral print such as this orange coral pillow cover from Amazon). 

These cute themed additions bring charm and authenticity, enhancing the beach-side vibe in your home and completing the coastal theme.

6. Big statement feature walls

For the adventurous, go big with a coastal-inspired feature wall. There’s a vast array of wallpapers and coverings featuring fantastic seaside motifs like intricate shell patterns, nautical stripes, and even lobster designs such as the gorgeous lobster wallpaper at Jane Clayton).

This approach adds an artistic element to your coastal scheme, allowing you to embrace pattern clashing while maintaining a cohesive color palette. 

Morgan DiRocco and Aly Costigan owners of Kindred Interior shares with us their favorite tips for wallpapering in coastal style “Grasscloth wallpaper, as well as shiplap, are creative and textural ways to add depth to a room and incorporate the coastal feel. 

Patterns like stripes, checkerboard, floral, and linen are all beautiful patterns in a coastal environment. Try a seaweed-design wallpaper paired with a striped rug for a playful yet stylish look such as the seaweed print wallpaper at Pottery Barn. For a more subtle effect, consider an ombre design in calming sea blues to create an oceanic backdrop. 

Fabrics also offer a wonderful opportunity to enhance this theme. Mix and match patterns within your chosen color scheme to upholster seating or create bespoke cushions, adding depth and personality to your space.

7. Embrace darker blues

While coastal designs are typically known for light and airy colors, incorporating darker blue elements can create a moody living room that is still very inviting. 

Deep navy and cobalt blues, when paired with crisp whites and natural wood flooring, strike a perfect balance, allowing a light and airy feel to shine through. This approach is particularly practical for families with young children or pets, where lighter upholstery can be a bit risky! 

To keep the space fresh and relaxed, complement darker shades with bright walls and plenty of natural light. Don’t hesitate to mix patterns and shades in deeper hues to add interest and dimension to the design.

There are countless ways to infuse coastal charm into your living room, whether you’re drawn to the classic trio of white, blue, and beige, or prefer a broader color palette. 

Coastal design can suit various styles, from traditional and rustic to sleek and modern, without compromising on the calm ambiance and welcoming feel that define this trend. 

As Morgan DiRocco and Aly Costigan explain, "The ease of being welcoming while still being elegant and elevated is what we aim for when it comes to curating a coastal living room." 

So whether you’re going for a timeless look or something more contemporary, coastal design offers a versatile and inviting approach to home decor. Next, check out coastal small bathroom ideas and coastal bedroom ideas for more ocean inspiration for your home.

There's one style of furniture that just hasn't gone anywhere in the past year or so, and that's cloud furniture. They have a distinct look that's chic and makes them so Instagrammable.

I spotted model Olivia Culpo lounging on a cloud couch on her feed, and I knew I had to find out what makes them so in demand and how to decorate them in the home. I've asked interior designers just that, as well as picking out budget-friendly cloud furniture.

If you're looking to bring the latest interior design trends into your home, getting creative with your furniture choices is a great way to make an impact.

It's worth knowing that cloud couches haven’t just come up as Instagram and TikTok design trends — they’ve spilled out into real-life homes, too.

“As an agent who spends a lot of time styling homes, I've definitely noticed how popular cloud couches have become,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“These plush, overstuffed sofas are the ultimate in comfort and style, with the deep, luxurious cushions just inviting you to sink in and relax after a long day,” she continues. “At the same time, cloud couches have a clean, modern look that fits seamlessly into so many design styles from mid-century modern to minimalist chic.”

Many of them also have a modular design, which Rachel says allows you to arrange your living space in a way that fits your needs and flow. For example, the Latitude Run Hockensmith Modular Corner Sectional from Wayfair can be changed up five ways.

If you’re loving the cloud couch look and aren’t sure how to incorporate it into your living room ideas, don’t stress — despite its unique design, it’s actually very versatile.

“I love how Olivia stuck to a gorgeous neutral palette with her bright white couch. When I'm staging homes with cloud couches, I usually build from a similar warm neutral base,” Rachel says.

From here, it's all about layering in personality with gorgeous textured accents.

“Plush throw blankets draped artfully over the arms are an absolute must for amping up that cozy, inviting vibe,” Rachel explains. “I'm also a big fan of mixing and matching throw pillows in complementary colors and patterns.” Small touches like this help strike the perfect balance of laidback and luxe.

It’s also worth keeping in mind the surrounding furniture and decor.

“For example, the plush white rug beneath the couch further amplifies this sense of luxury, adding an additional layer of softness underfoot,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

Behind the couch, there's also a piece of large, neutral-colored statement artwork that anchors the space, which Nina says is a brilliant way to add a touch of modern art to the room without detracting from the couch's prominence. This doesn't need to be expensive, either — my favorite places to get cheap wall art include Fy! and Desenio.

Shop our cloud furniture edit

Cloud couches like Olivia Culpo’s strike that delicate balance of comfort and style that’s so important in living rooms. 

“With a few simple styling tricks, you can make this plush piece a total showstopper,” Rachel finishes by saying.

If you want to see more luxe-looking celeb rooms, Lewis Hamilton’s living room is also chic and elegant.

Kylie Jenner is known for bringing polished and modern looks to red carpets and to her social feeds, so I'm not surprised that she brings this aesthetic into her interior.

I spotted her dining room on an adorable TikTok video she posted featuring her singing ABCs with her son Aire. As cute as this was, I couldn't help but be distracted by the sleek bench seat, the grounding rug, and the textured wooden bowls. I've asked designers why these and other features work so well in the space, plus how to get the look at home.

If you're looking for dining room ideas and want to refresh yours with a refined finish, Kylie's space has plenty to draw inspiration from.

The first thing that captured my attention in this modern yet cozy space (and was hard to ignore) was the bold centerpiece, which would work well for those looking for modern small dining room table ideas.

“At the heart of the space is an impressive concrete table, which adds a modern, sophisticated vibe,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

This robust centerpiece is complemented by a sleek gray curved bench seat. “It offers a soft contrast to the table's industrial finish and invites guests to linger longer,” she adds.

Kylie and Aire can be seen doing just that, relaxing and singing while they dive into their meal.

“In my work, I aim to choose one or two standout furnishings and keep the rest simple,” says Pam Hutter, interior designer and principal of Hutter Architects. “The wooden bowls add natural warmth and texture without cluttering the space.”

These neutral furnishings and decor are tied together by the large rug, which adds softness both visually and practically.

“A rug in a space with hard flooring makes it cozy and defines the dining area,” Pam says. 

On top of all this, the room is bathed in natural light, courtesy of a floor-to-ceiling glass sliding door that opens up the space to the outdoors. “The light streaming in enhances the room's airy, open feel, while the dark curtains offer flexibility, allowing for the perfect amount of daylight to set the desired mood,” Nina adds.

If you’re looking to make a dark room appear brighter, ensuring as much light as possible gets in is the best move.

Shop the edit

By bringing in thoughtful design like Kylie, you too can create a place that leaves a lasting impression, whether you’re dining with family or friends.

“It’s a space where modern aesthetics meet cozy comfort, creating an environment that is both stylish and welcoming,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for celeb inspiration for this room in the house, Olivia Rodrigo’s mid-century dining room also has plenty of timeless design choices.

Bringing personality in through refined decor elements can be tricky to do, but Olivia Culpo's living room has proved to me that you can indeed do this.

I'm loving how the model and Miss Universe winner has brought together modern furnishings and decor, which work together wonderfully in her compact living space. I've asked designers why her space looks so good and how you can bring her luxe aesthetic into your living room on a budget.

If you're searching for living room ideas that are seriously sophisticated, Olivia's sophisticated scheme is worth stealing.

Why I love Olivia Culpo's living room

One of the interior design trends that hasn’t gone anywhere this year is quiet luxury, and Olivia Culpo's living room embodies this perfectly.

“The neutral color palette, white textured walls, and light wood floors keep the room bright while adding warmth, which contributes to the airy ambiance,” explains Pam Hutter, designer and principal at Hutter Architects.

“The statement wall, adorned with white shiplap arranged in a striking herringbone pattern, draws the eye to the white marble fireplace, which offers a touch of timeless sophistication,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She also loves how the uniquely shaped mirror above the fireplace reflects the wood beams on the ceiling, adding depth and warmth to the room.

“Grounding the space is a plush white rug, atop which sits a unique stone coffee table with distinctive spherical legs, adding a pop of color and organic texture to the room,” she explains.

All of this is complemented by living room lighting artfully placed around the space.

“The ambiance is elevated by the large black metal chandelier with a round base and candle-like lights, as well as the black metal wall sconces with white double lamp shades,” Nina adds. 

How to recreate Olivia Culpo's living room

To replicate this sleek yet cozy style, Pam suggests starting with minimalist furniture silhouettes in a neutral color such as gray, white, and dark brown. 

“From here, add texture to the walls with alternating matte and glossy paint or wallpaper. Exposed concrete or wood floors also help open up the space,” she says.

Most importantly, Pam says to opt for fewer furnishings that serve multiple purposes, like a storage ottoman or nesting tables. “This prevents clutter and maximizes functionality,” she adds.

 The best storage ottomans don’t need to be expensive, either — for example, the Mxfurhawa Velvet Storage Ottoman from Amazon is the site’s choice and is multipurpose. 

“Keeping the overall footprint smaller and including amenities like ample natural light helps tremendously in creating a streamlined, harmonious interior at home,” she says.

A sleek space with purposefully chosen accents like Olivia's can be very impactful.

Nina explains, “The shapely white vase filled with dark purple flowers sitting on top of the coffee table adds a touch of natural beauty, while the cello stood by itself in the cabinet shows its meaning to her.”

The key is not to overcrowd the space and allow architectural details and materials to shine through.  

Shop our Olivia Culpo living room edit

For those wanting a clean, uncluttered space that still feels warm and welcoming, Olivia Culpo’s living room offers plenty of inspiration.

“Her space is a testament to refined taste, where every detail is meticulously chosen to create a serene atmosphere,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you love this refined style and want to bring it into other areas of your home, Taylor Swift’s kitchen also offers plenty of luxe yet personal elements.

Avoid accidentally dating your space with a timeless living room design that will work for you for years to come. We all like to be on trend but as we know, trends come and go. 

So, If you want to design a living room space that won’t be dictated by what’s hot and what’s not, it’s a good idea to put together a scheme that you love and isn’t influenced too heavily by current trends, our pros say.

Classic and traditional living room ideas don’t have to be dull and uninspiring. Instead, they offer a timeless feel that will elevate your space. 

Designing a timeless living room

Looking for living room ideas that you aren’t going to get bored of? Redesigning a room is an investment and if you want to create something that isn’t all about what’s trending then keep reading.

Where our interior designers have recommended products, we've found matching items highly-rated by customers and from trusted retailers to help you shop the guide.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Step 1: Consider the architecture and layout

Every room is different and it’s important to work with both its strengths and weaknesses. Your living room layout is going to dictate the configuration of furniture and what lighting you choose for a timeless space.

Ayten Nadeau, founder of i-TEN Designs says, "start by evaluating the existing architecture and layout of the room. This will guide your design choices and help you make the most of the space. Respect the architectural integrity of your home and enhance it with your design choices." 

For example, if you have a fireplace, it’s a good idea to make a feature out of it. Perhaps you could arrange your furniture around it, or wallpaper the wall behind it to make a bold statement, or use the mantelpiece as an opportunity to show off decorations that you love. 

This Vintage Poppy peel and stick wallpaper is a great wall-covering option and shoppers rate it for being easy to install and looking gorgeous when finished.

Step 2: Invest in quality upholstery and furniture

One of the biggest investments you’re likely to make when it comes to designing a timeless living room is the furniture. If you want to achieve a timeless feel, then try to stay away from anything that boasts trendy shapes or finishing and opt for more classic pieces instead, like this Parker Upholstered Ottoman from Wayfair, which comes fully assembled, is available in eight great colors that can either blend in, or become a needed pop of color. 

We particularly like the brown velvet version, a color that has seen a resurgence in recent times for it's brilliant ability to warm up any space. Pair it with a nice blue for a timeless aesthetic.

"Choose upholstered furniture and key pieces like sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables that boast quality craftsmanship and classic silhouettes," says suggests Nina Lichtenstein, founder of Nina’s Home Design. This sectional sofa from Zinus is available in neutral, soft colors.

"Look for durable fabrics such as linen, cotton, or leather in neutral tones. Avoid overly trendy shapes or patterns that may quickly go out of style. Consider having furniture custom-designed to provide one-of-a-kind timeless pieces that reflect your personal taste and elevate the room's uniqueness."

The Wayfair ottoman above has a fabulous button tufting that has been seen across many decades of furniture design because it's chic and never goes out of style.

Step 3: Clean lines and comfort

A fail-safe rule for choosing furniture and living room storage that has a classic feel is to focus on clean lines and how comfortable the piece is. 

Gaia Guidi Filippi, owner of Gaia G Interiors says, "Keep your furniture choices comfortable but with clean lines." 

With that in mind, this Hertford accent chair,available on Wayfair is a winner in our eyes. 

Gaia goes on to say this technique when designing a timeless living room aesthetic "ensures the space feels inviting yet uncluttered and updated yet classic." She adds, "Of course you can throw in something ornate or detailed for personality, but for longevity, work around mostly clean lines and you’ll be less likely to hate your furniture 10 years down the line."

Step 4: Embrace timeless patterns and textures

"Incorporate timeless patterns and textures through area rugs, throw pillows, and curtains. Classic patterns like stripes, plaids, nature-themed designs, and subtle geometric add interest without overpowering the space," explains Nina.

We’d suggest opting for natural textures such as wood, stone, and woven materials to create depth and warmth. Bespoke wooden furniture further contributes to a classic and handmade aesthetic, ensuring your timeless living room feels both unique and stylish. 

This timeless Patterned Area Rug from Amazon would look fabulous as a focal point in any living room. 

You also can't go wrong with stripes, such as the Vietri Nuovo Stripe Stemless Wine Glass from Saks that would look so chic on any bar cart.

Step 5: Focus on functional and elegant lighting

One of the most important elements in your process will be picking living room lighting. You need to think about the type of ambiance you want to create and enjoy for years to come, and how you can achieve this with your choice of lighting, even if you need to get savvy for renter-friendly lighting.

"Choose a combination of overhead lighting, such as recessed lights, chandeliers, or pendant lights, and task lighting like table lamps and floor lamps. Opt for fixtures with clean lines and timeless finishes like brushed nickel, brushed brass, or matte black," says Nina. 

This Banty Arched Floor Lamp from Wayfair is sure to never go out of fashion with it's sleek lines and simple, neutral shade.

Or, add ambiance with a statement lamp on your side table, such as with the Jonathan Adler Belvedere Vanity Lamp from Saks that's made from crystal, linen, and brass.

Step 6: Incorporate versatile storage solutions

One of the key things that you can implement into a timeless living room design is effective storage solutions, like this Numenn storage unit available at Amazon. To ensure the longevity of your living room design, making sure there’s enough space to store everything that you need is vital. 

Nina suggests"investing in timeless furniture that offers both style and functionality, such as media consoles with concealed storage, bookcases, and window seats or ottomans with hidden compartments. If you follow this functionality rule you can make sure the majority of the items in your timeless living room have more than just one use and end up worth the spend. This makes it a bit easier on the conscience to splurge a bit when you know you're get lots of use for years to come.

In small living rooms, this is especially important so you can save on precious floor space that might otherwise be taken up by storage items with no other function. 

Step 7: Strive for symmetry and balance

You don’t have to follow the exact principles of living room Feng Shui when designing a timeless living area, but our interior pros say it’s worth striving for symmetry and a sense of balance.

"Create a sense of harmony and balance in your living room by arranging furniture and decor symmetrically," says Nina. "Place key pieces like sofas and armchairs in a balanced layout around focal points such as the fireplace or a large window. Use area rugs to anchor furniture groupings and define different zones within the space."

Step 8: Bring in nature

Biophilic design has become a buzzword in the world of interiors (and for good reason)! It centers the importance of bringing nature into your home for harmonious and peaceful living. 

"A touch of green can do wonders. Place a plant in the corner to add life and a natural element to the room," says Gaia. This sizeable Walmart Indoor Palm Plant would do the job perfectly.

Naturally, plants are very unlikely to ever go out of fashion therefore incorporating them into your living room design is a fantastic idea for bringing life and color into the space. 

Psychological studies have also shown simply looking at colors that occur in abundance in nature such as green or blue can have a calming effect on the body's nervous system, encouraging feelings of wellbeing.

Step 9: Pop of color

Neutrals are utterly timeless but this doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate colors you love into your living room design. Rather than honing in on one particular color and drenching your space in it, consider adding pops of color instead. 

Gaia advises, "Add your personality to your living room with colorful accents. Pillows, textural and printed window treatments, accent chair fabric and other small accessories are perfect for this." 

Furthermore, using soft furnishings to inject color instead of paint and more permanent fixtures means that you won’t be wasting money if you eventually want to switch things up or fancy a small seasonal change to mark an important holiday.

This Wayfair Rafael Throw Pillow will add a pop of color and texture to your living space.

Step 10: Add personal touches with accessories

A beautifully designed living room is all well and good but you want to make sure that it feels personal and unique to you. 

An effective way of incorporating a personal touch is to do it with accessories. "Incorporate curated artwork, plants, and personal items that reflect your taste. These can be updated over time to refresh the look without overhauling the entire design’, says Ayten. We love this Set of Two Abstract Floral Artwork from Wayfair for it's quirk and visual interest. 

Ayten goes on to say, "As you embark on your design journey, remember that the goal is to create a space that is both functional and beautiful, where every element is chosen with care and every detail speaks of quality."

Meet our experts

Designing a living room that you love is the most important thing. It’s an area in the home where you spend a lot of time in, so you want to make sure it feels individual to you and isn’t led solely by what’s on trend.

Whether you’re a maximalist interiors lover or prefer something a little more minimal, we’d always recommend designing a space that feels timeless and that resonates with you.

Check out these moody living room ideas, full of dark and dramatic styles. Our designs cover all of the popular living room styles, from a moody retro living room to boho style and modern, there's something for everyone. 

And that's without showcasing the moody colors you can choose too – from plum to the deepest green, black to terracotta – all these shades can be used to create a moody living room that you'll love. 

Our moody designs come straight from the pros so you nail some new living room ideas.

10 moody living room ideas 

Our 10 dramatic living room ideas will help you choose the interior style you love and give you some fabulous moody room color choices too. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Mid-gray

Gray certainly has its place when it comes to moody living room ideas and it does suit more classic schemes. It's a good shade to consider when you want to try out the moody trend but not go too dark. 

"A moody yet calming blue-grey color, Croft is perfect for use in the living room, as it has a welcoming effect and works well with natural light. Created with a combination of black, raw umber, and purple tones, this versatile blue-grey shade can be used as a standalone color for a dramatic look or as a striking feature wall," says Francesca Wezel, founder of Francesca’s Paints.

White is a great balancer when it comes to experimenting with moody colors for the first time, Francesca agrees, "To add contrast and interest, try painting surrounding woodwork a light color – this also prevents a room from feeling too dark."

Wayfair's Hertford Accent Chair is a good mid-gray that would suit this moody color scheme. 

2. Boho designs

For a more bohemian style moody living room consider a terracotta teamed with a dark-based wallpaper. 

"Creating a moody living room doesn't have to mean using black or dark grey.  Instead, use rich jewel tones and deep earthy neutrals such as terracotta and the darkest of greens for walls and accents. Opt for wallpaper featuring dark, large-scale florals or nature-inspired motifs," advises Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. 

"The lush, dramatic blooms set against a deep background create a moody yet romantic feel. Our Bloomin’ Marvellous design in Blush Green is a deliciously dark print that makes the perfect talking point in any living space."

Add more bohemia with a curated gallery wall that consists of gilt-style gold frames (we love Target's Travel Photo Gold Framed Wall Art) filled with portraits and landscapes. 

3. Chocolate brown

There's been a resurgence for chocolate brown living rooms and it's easy to see why – it's cozy without being cold and it's super stylish. It looks amazing in both modern and classic spaces and it works well with other colors. We really recommend trying it out for your moody living room. 

"Warmer alternatives to black such as ‘Chocolate Color’ or ‘Purple Brown’ will be seen as black but will reflect warmth and offer a softness not exhibited by the cooler black tones," says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 

"Rich warm colors based on umber and ochre deliver cocooning, restful, and charming spaces. Deeper, richer caramels are perfect for creating enticing and sumptuous spaces."

4. Dark blue

The moody color you use is key to the effect you'll get. Sometimes we might want to swap a light and airy room for one that's dark and moody, and that's exactly what Tara Felice Engelberg, founder of Tara Felice Interiors did with this striking sunroom:

"This space was one of the only original spaces to remain after a massive near tear-down renovation. The rest of the house is pretty light and airy, so I thought it would be cool to offset and highlight this original space by painting it a dark hue. We selected Farrow & Ball's Railings. 

This room functions as a lounge room of sorts, and being that it is on the first floor and open to a large kitchen and family room, it needed to be a casual and calming space for this large family of seven to hang out in.  We went with subdued furniture colors and highly textured fabrics (boucle swivels anyone?) to enhance the tranquil vibes."

We love how Tara painted the ceiling too, it really brings it down visually and creates a unique moody living room space. If you want a blue-black shade check out Benjamin Moore's Old Navy 2063-10. 

5. Modern designs

Choosing a deep green living room idea for your moody scheme will give it a modern makeover as green is a key color this year in interiors. 

It has an elegance that ensures it elevates a living room and a darker shade really adds depth. We love how this living room has accents of black and grey – consider a grey rug for your flooring, it grounds the green perfectly. Amazon's Homfine Washable Area Rug Geometric in Grey is a good match and will add to the contemporary feel. 

6. Cozy features

It can be a little daunting when you embark on a moody living room, and that can be helped by the accessories you choose, for example, artwork is great for breaking up an expanse of wall, even if it's a color you love.

"A bold living space deserves bold art. For this room, we used strong imagery to enhance the moodiness of the saturated dark navy paint. The mix of vintage military posters and space photography offer an energetic feeling to this richly designed room," says Barrett Oswald, partner and principal designer, Barrett Oswald Designs.

And this kind of combination is what creates a copier feel says Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador, Farrow & Ball, "Darker, moody colors can imbue a magical quality in your living room, especially when they are used primarily in the evening. Maximizing a cozy quality, they can cocoon you in their richness."

7. Dark plum

Plum is a fabulous colour to choose for a moody living room because it's not too dark but has a dramatic and warming quality. It's great for a north facing living room that might feel a bit chilly normally. 

Paint and color expert, Annie Sloan CBE explains why a more intense shade instead of blue and black is a good choice, 'Look to rich, dark, jewel-toned colors to create a dramatically atmospheric feeling. This mood is ideal in a living room, allowing you to cocoon yourself in a seductive, indulgent, comforting space of an evening whilst confidently expressing a bold and sophisticated style choice during the day.'

Pick a couch pillow in a plum shade to match you walls, Wayfair's Velvet Throw Pillow will be oh so tactile.

8. Shades of gray

You can use more than one shade of a color to help break up the scheme when creating a gray living room.

All work in their own right and as such look great together too. As a general rule of thumb use the darker color the most, then the mid gray, and finally the lighter gray as an accent. 

For a similar brown gray as these bookcases we recommend Lick's Grey 07 Matt, it has a touch of green that softens it whilst adding depth. 

9. Black walls

There's no moodier a living room than a black one right? But how do you get the balance right so it doesn't feel like you're living in cave? 

By adding warming colors to your scheme like a gorgeous tan leather, oatmeal drapes, fairy lights and some earthy accessories like earthenware vases and wooden ornaments. 

Start by choosing your furniture – mix it up by using a black couch and a couple of tan armchairs. Have a look at the rest of our top buys below to copy this sumptuous moody black living room.

10. Retro style

The best thing about picking a moody living room scheme is that it really can be applied to all interior styles. This fabulous mid-century modern living room and contemporary architecture really lends itself to this look.

And if you don't want to embrace black then consider a dark green – this shade is called Obsidian Green by Little Greene and it's a green black so not as dark as jet black for example. "The trend for rich, cocooning living spaces that bring a sense of comfort continues with a move toward the soothing power of darker shades. Using darker colors can create a sense of intimacy and an encompassing feel, however, a true black can feel austere when used on all four walls," says Ruth Mottershead. 

Lighting is key when you embrace moody living room style, check out this Decorian Black Floor Lamp from Wayfair, the gold accents will give your retro moody living room a warm glow. 

Our moody living room ideas will help you take the steps to trying out this fabulous look in your space. There are plenty of options and you don't need to use black or dark blue, there's plenty of jewel like shades like plum and dark green to consider too that will work equally as well. 

Lewis Hamilton's living room is seriously stylish, which has come as no surprise to me whatsoever. 

The Formula 1 star is known for his on-point fashion on the grid, so the fact his living room reflects his eclectic yet polished taste totally makes sense. I asked design pros why it works so well and how to get the look on a budget.

When it comes to following the latest interior design trends, celebrities are always ahead of the game. Lewis Hamilton's eclectic and elegant place is definitely first on the podium in my books. 

Why we're loving Lewis Hamilton's living room

In an Instagram post, Lewis shared a picture of him chilling in his living room, surrounded by furniture and decor details that are sleek yet filled with attitude.

“In the world of Formula 1, Lewis Hamilton is known for his speed, precision, and flair. These same qualities are evident in his impeccably designed living room, which epitomizes the concept of quiet luxury,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design. 

The first thing that caught Nina’s eye was the masterful millwork, which she says adds depth and texture to the room. “Their subtle sophistication is highlighted by the strategic living room lighting, which not only brings out the wall details but brings out the unique shapes of the furniture and décor scattered throughout the room.”

She adds that each piece in Lewis’ living room is thoughtfully selected, contributing to a playful yet harmonious design. 

Eclectic decor is one of the biggest big and small interior design trends for the year, which Lewis has brought in with sophisticated color pops and striking focal points. 

For example, while predominantly neutral, the carpet features injections of blue. “This blue motif is echoed in a stylish armchair and the stunning bluish flowers arranged in a sleek vase, creating a cohesive visual thread that ties the room together,” she adds. Jewel tones are also one of the biggest color trends for the year.

If you love the chair, the Etta Avenue Cleo Chair from Wayfair is similar, has a 160lb weight capacity, is easy to clean, and comes with assembly tools.

The room's centerpiece is a reflective metal coffee table, which adds a touch of modern luxury. Nina continues, “Its sleek surface catches the light and reflects the room's elements, enhancing the sense of space and adding a dynamic, shimmering quality.”

These features together create a space that’s bold and playful, yet still has a refined quality to it. Sleek yet full of surprises — that’s Lewis Hamilton’s living room.

How to recreate the look

If you want to bring Lewis Hamilton’s style into your place, be sure to layer bold colors and dramatic shapes into a neutral space. “For example, the reddish-brown lamp serves as a focal point, drawing the eye and inviting exploration of the surrounding elements,” Nina explains.

She says this guides the gaze around the room, ensuring each unique piece is appreciated in relation to the others.

“Just like Lewis Hamilton, I recommend picking pieces that really speak to your own personal style. At the same time, make sure these are carefully chosen so they’ll look timeless in years to come,” explains Emily Lambe, deputy editor of Real Homes.

It’s also a smart idea to pay attention to the smaller details, which is a key part of sumptuous style. “For example the curtain tassels, with their intricate pleated design, introduce a touch of classic elegance, reinforcing the room’s elegant theme,” Nina adds.

These don't need to be expensive either — for example, the Bel Avenir Curtain Tiebacks from Amazon are under $20, are hand-knitted, and only need washing in cold water.

When designing a luxe-looking room like this, being mindful of softer fabrics like these will help create a snug, welcoming ambiance.

Shop our Lewis Hamilton living room edit

Love the look of Lewis Hamilton's living room as much as I do? These decor picks will help you bring his look into your own place.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

In Lewis Hamilton's living room, every detail is meticulously curated, from the millwork to the quirky artwork and the interplay of colors and shapes. 

“It's a reflection of Hamilton's own journey — a seamless blend of speed and serenity, luxury and comfort,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on bringing F1 star style into your space, Charles Leclerc’s living room is also a beautifully decorated place.

It's no surprise that Zendaya's Met Gala look has wow-ed us again this year. The Challengers star and style pro always makes a statement at this luxe event.

As soon as we saw Zendaya's moody floral look, complete with jewel tones and metallics, we knew we wanted to embrace the aesthetic in our own homes. And it's actually pretty easy if you stick to the right color palette and design choices, say our design pros.

See how to recreate this 2024 interior design trend with our styling advice and decor picks.

Check out Zendaya's Met Gala look

Zendaya stepped foot on the red carpet Monday evening in a stunning look, reflective of major 2024 color trends. This year, the American actress was appointed as one of the event's co-chairs by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, alongside Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, and Chris Hemsworth.

The event typically takes place on the first Monday of May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. With this year's theme of "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" and the "The Garden of Time" dress code, Zendaya's moody, dramatic ensemble fits the bill perfectly. 

2024 marks Zendaya's first time back at the Met Gala since her iconic 2019 Cinderella-inspired Tommy Hilfiger gown. This year, she once again teamed up with stylist, Law Roach, to create another statement look. 

The Maison Margiela Artisanal by John Galliano gown mixes navy blue, emerald green, and black with touches of shimmering metallics throughout. She matched her makeup and nails in a deep burgundy shade. The look is topped off with a hummingbird on her shoulder and playful accents like berries, leaves, florals, and insects.

And that's not all! Zendaya also rocked a surprise second look on the red carpet with a Givenchy by John Galliano 1996 gown, paired with a Philip Treacy for Alexander McQueen fascinator. 

Combining these dark, dramatic hues with nature is definitely a trend we want to keep on our radar for 2024 (hello dark cottagecore!). "Zendaya has embraced a design aesthetic that works beautifully in fashion as well as interiors," says content editor, Danielle Valente.

Ditch those outdated interiors trends and opt for something modern and fresh. Zendaya serves as fabulous inspiration for your next living room. We're taking some simple steps to get the look at home.

How to get the look

Discover some new living room ideas and change up your style to recreate Zendaya's gorgeous outfit. First, you're going to want to stick to a pretty specific color palette. Go for rich jewel tones like dark navy, emerald green, and deep maroon. You can incorporate these colors in a small living room in anything from the sofa to accent pillows and throw blankets. 

"If you want to go all out, paint the room dark gray or black to really bring the moody vibes," says Danielle. We love Black 02 paint from Lick which is a dark velvet black color with red undertones.

Then add some decor and accessories that embrace florals and nature. You don't have to spend a lot, though — there are some affordable luxe picks out there that really scream bougie on a budget. 

Look for faux grapes and berries to scatter around in a centerpiece or vase. Make it into a DIY by painting a bunch of artificial grapes (like this 15-piece set from Amazon) in dark, metallic colors. Add feathers and leaves to your arrangement for added texture and interest.

You can also pick up some affordable wall art featuring birds, insects, and flowers to really amp up the garden vibes. "Wall art is always a good way to go when it comes to trends as you can swap it out pretty easily if you'd like to change the look of the room later on," says Danielle.

You don't have to stick to the living room when it comes to moody colors. You can channel Zendaya's design ideas in a dark bedroom or a dark small bathroom for just as much payoff. This style icon sure knows how to spark inspiration.

If you don't have a bouclé swivel chair in your living room, you're doing it all wrong. Fortunately, Wayfair can help you embrace this viral trend with stylish and durable selections at budget-friendly prices. 

The celeb-fave fabric (Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow are among its fans) has swept TikTok #FYPs and  become increasingly sough-after amongst design enthusiasts. Since the popularity of the cozy, chic textile shows no signs of slowing down, you might as well try it for yourself, right? 

The Way Day sale is about to kick off on May 4 — which includes up to 80% off select items — so consider this is the opportune time to elevate your living room game with a bit of bouclé. But keep in mind, all sales end May 6.

Meet Wayfair's bouclé swivel chairs 

If you have the bouclé trend on the brain, here's where to snag finds from Wayfair that utilize the beloved fabric.

Quicklinks

• Wayfair living room sectionals
• Wayfair sofas
• Wayfair living room sets
• Wayfair loveseats
• Wayfair ottomans and poufs

Why we love Bouclé swivel chairs

The bouclé trend works particularly well with a variety of living room styles: Scandi, minimalism, and of course, 2024's go-to aesthetic: all-things neutral. It's comfy but still manages to add a touch of sophistication, which isn't such an easy feat. 

"Bouclé adds warmth, depth, and texture to furniture," says designer Claire Paquin. "It can be both cozy and sophisticated at the same time. I love adding bouclé textures to my living spaces for that natural and nuanced appeal."

Plus, this small living room trend has been given the seal of approval by celebs, so you know you're in good company when opting for the fan-favorite fabric. 

"The likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Kendall Jenner, and Kate Hudson are among notable advocates of this textured trend, which, despite its good looks, is designed to last," says Megan Slack, head of celebrity style news at Homes & Gardens. "As with all trends, its prevalence has ebbed and flowed over the decades, but it's arguably never looked as fashionable as it does today."

For more ways to work with bouclé, the Wade Logan Brinae 68'' Upholstered Loveseat on Wayfair adds a modern touch thanks to its shape, and the Armelia 47''/60'' Boucle Upholstered Waterfall Bench on Wayfair  is a fun accent piece that's begging for a cozy throw blanket. 

What to shop

" In today’s quest for comfort and coziness at home, bouclé invites us to touch, feel, and sink into its soft embrace, transforming ordinary chairs and sofas into statement pieces and sanctuaries," says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. 

Consider us sold!

Prices were correct at the time of publication. 

Meet our experts

Looking for more ways to keep your living room stylish and inviting? We asked designers about easy upgrades for your small living room that pack a big punch, plus how to refresh a small living room without spending too much.

For a bright idea, turn to the Amazon wall sconce taking over TikTok #FYPs and earning shoutouts from the Design Twins. 

Jodie Kammerer, one-half of the creative duo, took to social media to show off her modern, rechargeable Amazon jengush Battery Operated Wall Sconce that's part lighting source, part work of art. Naturally, we had to learn how to style the viral statement maker from our team of experts. 

For a sophisticated take on small living room lighting ideas, these babies have you covered. 

How to style the Amazon wall sconce that the Design Twins love

Start small when searching for easy upgrades for a small living room. Something like a light fixture is the perfect way to make an impact without much work. And Jodie has given the green light (get it?) to the wall sconce, which she has placed on her emerald green walls, in the living room alongside her black shelving unit. 

"The round silhouette of these sconces, coupled with the sleek chrome finish, offers a modern yet timeless appeal," says designer Nina Lichtenstein. "The chrome finish enhances their contemporary look, making them ideal for various design styles, from industrial loft to eclectic chic."

It's a great way to modernize a small living room and add an interesting style element. Here's how to make it work in your home.

1. Think about placement

 Arguably the most important question of all is, "Where should I put my sconce?"

"Draw on its simplicity and clean lines, and really think about its placement relative to furniture and architectural features," says interior designer Bree Steele of RJ Living.

If you want to draw your eye to a focal point in the room, place it near artwork. Otherwise, Bree suggests positioning them on opposite sites of a bookshelf for a sophisticated approach, similarly to Jodie's setup. 

2. Select the right room color

Curious about the best colors to paint a small living room? When working with this look, Nina suggests going all out. 

"Embrace the bold color options — red, blue, green, or classic white — to make a striking statement in your decor," she says.

3. Play with the brightness

Since you can control the amount of light in the room, use it to your advantage when setting the tone. 

"Warm color tones create a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation, while cooler hues add vibrancy and focus to work or study areas," Nina adds. "With remote-controlled dimming, you have the flexibility to adapt lighting to different activities and occasions effortlessly."

4. Clean when needed

Of course, like any other piece, it's going to require a little upkeep. Make sure to have some of the best cleaning supplies on hand. 

"Modern sconces are pretty easy to clean because of their finishes, so they are easy to maintain with regular upkeep," Bree notes. "Regular dusting with a soft cloth can prevent buildup on both the fixture and the bulb. For glass, a glass cleaner can remove fingerprints and smudges without damaging the surface."

You might also like

As much as the fixture has become a beloved product on social media, Amazon does note that it is a frequently returned item. Should that deter you, have a look at a few similar buys to the jengush sconce. 

Meet our experts

For more bright ideas in the lighting department, peruse the recently launched Pooky Lights' USA store and find lamps, wall fixtures, ceiling lights, lamp shades, and miscellaneous decor pieces that will add a luxe touch to your home.

The new Beautiful Drew Chair is here to make life easier for those in small spaces looking for a cozy place to rest. If you're in a compact apartment and can't fit a giant sectional sofa into your space, a comfy oversized seat may be the perfect solution. 

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore line is full of clever home essentials from versatile kitchen gadgets to multi-use furniture. The boucle Drew Chair, available at Walmart from $300, is no different and it's just as comfortable as it is practical and gorgeous.

Now available in three colorways, we take a look at this genius small living room idea to get the low down.

Everything you need to know about the Beautiful Drew Chair

We were scrolling TikTok when we noticed Drew Barrymore came across our FYP with this new launch. Drew demonstrates how the comfy item in her line is a brilliant  living room upgrade as it's big enough to snuggle up with your pet, but not big enough to swamp the room. As small space pros, we knew we had to investigate.

Beautiful Drew Chair details

The Beautiful Drew Chair is an oversized accent chair complete with three fluffy throw pillows. It features soft boucle fabric and is available in three colors — charcoal, cream, and sage (with charcoal being the latest to release). It would be perfect as a reading nook seat, or a good substitute for a large sofa in a small studio apartment.

The best part? It's on a swivel base, so no matter where you position it in the room, it can turn to face wherever you need to look.

Where to buy the Beautiful Drew Chair

The Beautiful Drew Chair is available at Walmart for just under $300 — a pretty great value for money considering how versatile it is. The new gray colorway is exclusive to Walmart, but you can also pick up the sage and cream version direct on the Beautiful by Drew website, where you can also sign up to hear about special events and new collections.

No matter your small living room layout, there's always a way to find a seating solution. To style this sofa substitute, we'd suggest adding a few extra accent pillows, a textured throw blanket, or a fluffy sheepskin rug. Big enough to fit you and your pet, this reading nook will be a snuggly oasis in no time.

Finding colors to paint a small living room to make it brighter can be a challenge. It's a common question when faced with a room that's low on space. Do you go light or dark? Muted or bright hues?

We asked our color theory and paint experts for their advice on the best colors to paint a small living room and why their suggestions work so well. Although white a solid choice, there are six other shades our pros suggest you consider, from warming neutrals to pastels and reds. 

There's more color choice than you might think for small living room ideas, but whatever you go for, it needn't be short on style. In this guide, our creative pros reveal the top shades to transform your living space from pokey to fabulous.

Colors to paint a small living room to make it brighter

Delve into the best colors to bring in the hottest small living room trends, and why our experts love them so much. And don't worry, there's a little something for everyone, whether you love pale shades or dramatic darker tones. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. White

It's perhaps the color we often reach for when tackling a small living room, and for good reason. White is a solid choice, easily lifting and brightening a room whilst helping create the illusion of more space. 

Chrissie Rucker OBE, founder of The White Company, says, “The most expressive decorating tool of all, color can transform the feel of a room instantly. A white scheme brings lightness and serenity to a space and white-painted walls will instantly brighten up a gloomy room. 

"A white scheme also tricks the eye by expanding space visually, so it can effectively make a small space seem bigger. And, of course, it is the perfect plain backdrop fall all our home accessories and statement furniture,"

For a more modern take, opt for a softer-toned white instead, such as Lick's White 04 Matt . Add complimenting furniture, like this sectional sofa from Zinus is available in neutral, soft colors.

2. Blush pink

Blush pink, such as Farrow and Ball's Pink Ground, has been a popular choice over the last year or so and it's easy to see why. It has lovely warming tones making it a good color for small living rooms. 

Francesca Wezel, founder of Francesca's Paints explains, "Pink is one of my favourite colours and is extremely versatile. It is a calming colour associated with love, kindness and femininity and adding a splash of pink to your home will bring a peaceful and serene environment."

Wayfair's Aslin Geometric Rug offers a block design with shades of blush, ideal for lightening up the floor, too.

3. Sky blue

Sky blue is a color that lifts a space — think how seeing a blue sky makes you feel after days of rain. It has the same positive impact within a space too, as our brains are naturally programmed to find peace and calm from nature's soothing shades of blue. Giving small living room that needs an upgrade a lick of the right blue can be transformative.

Annie Sloan CBE, paint and color expert, explains, "Colours that make spaces feel bigger and lighter must contain blue pigment but needn’t limit you to just blue. Blue pigments are recessive meaning they draw the eyes outward, and reflect light – giving a feeling of limitless horizons.

"Crisp, pure whites contain blue pigment which is why they bounce light around so effectively, and Swedish blue-greens like Duck Egg or my Svenska Blue (the clue’s in the name)  — pictured above — have been developed specifically to maximise light in a country which has so little of it during dark winter months."

4. Gray green

Neutral small living room ideas are an inviting, warming option and if you pick the right shade, you can transform this compact space.

"A shade such as Hazy Skies OC-48 will ooze comfort in a classy and effortless way," Helen Shaw, color expert and international marketing director at Benjamin Moore. "Elevate this timelessly stylish look with layers of texture such as dark woods, tactile bouclé textiles and sleek stone surfaces such as marble and quartz."

A gray-green will give you the best of both worlds — it's nurturing and elegant, making it a good choice for a small living room. 

5. Go for zest

If you adore color then embrace it. Bright, zesty colors will be impactful in a small living room.

Jamie Watkins, color pro and co-founder of Divine Savages says, "Beautiful, bright and contrasting colors are thought to spark joy and happiness so this palette of zesty shades immediately caught our eye. We love the verdant greens, pretty pastels and varying textures in this cosy snug which can really uplift the spirit of a home."

And don't rule out painting the ceiling, as that fifth wall can take color too.

Jamie adds, "The calming repeat of a traditional art deco fan, in the palest of pink with a hint of copper, wallpapered on the ceiling really helps to ground the zestier colours of the upholstery and soft furnishings, bringing an unlikely sense of calm to the space."

Walmart's Glidden One Coat Interior Paint and Primer, Whirligig Pink, will certainly lighten up a ceiling whilst adding a hint of color, much like the picture above.

6. Brick red

Contrary to popular belief, you can go for mid to dark tones. 

"Light colors are not the only option for a small living space. I love to embrace a small room and create a dramatic and intimate interior with intense cocooning colors," says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene.

Balance the look by choosing lighter tones in other areas, this could with bright living room flooring ideas, cute window treatments, and furniture choices.

7. Nearly black

Sometimes,throwing the rules out of the window is not only fun, but surprisingly effective. Choosing a nearly black shade can create a stunning space, even if your living room is teeny tiny.

Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball encourages you to be bold. He says, “Go dark — don’t fight the constrictions of restricted space. Play to the limitations of the room by choosing a mid to dark and painting it all over your walls, ceiling and woodwork. 

"This will blur the boundaries between where all the plains stop and start (e.g. where the wall meets the ceiling, a built-in cupboard or a utilitarian radiator)."

Ruth agrees, adding that expanses of uncluttered color create a sense of space, even in smaller rooms.

Don't feel restricted if you have a small living room, there are plenty of beautiful shades to choose from, from off-whites to nearly black. The main thing is to choose a color that resonates with you.

Next, explore bright and colorful living room ideas for extra inspiration in your room makeover. 

You may not have realized the outdated living room colors in your space are holding back your aesthetic and the enjoyment of it. As with fashion, the popularity of colors rise and fall in home decor, too.

If you love to follow those trends, our expert guide is for you. In it, our interior designers reveal the nine outdated living room colors to swerve, and what to try instead including, aquamarine, plaster pink, and mint.

Settling on the best living room ideas for you will bring full enjoyment whenever you're in this space, so it's key to get the main color right, whether that's from paint or wallpaper.  

Outdated living room colors to avoid 

It's time to say goodbye to interior paint color trends that aren't working for you anymore, and hello to fabulous expert-approved alternatives to breathe life into your space again.

Where our experts have product suggestions, our in-house shopper has curated carefully matching buys to help you get started on your living room color ideas.

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Ditch sky blue, embrace aquamarine

Admittedly, sky blue can be a lovely shade to have in a living room, but if you get it wrong, it can feel cold and uninviting and that's where the problem is, especially as there are many shades to choose from.

Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, says, "If you’re hoping to achieve a breezy, serene vibe in your living room, opt for a gentle aquamarine hue, reminiscent of tropical seas, over brighter pastel blues. Aquamarine is both modern and elegant in equal measure."

The reason aquamarine works better is that it's warmer visually and you don't risk the 'coolness' that can come with the wrong shade of sky blue. 

For a similar aquamarine to the one pictured, try Benjamin Moore's Iced Green 673. 

2. Swap beige for plaster pink

If you remember the days of magnolia from floor to ceiling then that's how beige is currently viewed in the interiors industry. Whilst it can be good as a blank canvas, why settle for average when you can have pretty plaster pink instead?

“Be wary of beige, which can sometimes come across as dull and uninspired. Instead, choose an earthy tone of blush or plaster pink," says renowned interior designer, Matthew Williamson. "These pinks have become my go-to neutrals, offering a gentle warmth that is both versatile and inviting, whilst also introducing a more playful element."

We love plaster pink, it's easy on the eye and can warm up the coldest north facing room. Try Lick's Pink 05 or Farrow and Ball's Setting Plaster, and team with yellow to copy Matthew's fabulous style, pictured above.

3. Choose mint over forest green

Green living rooms are still popular, but some shades are better to choose than others. Dark greens are out and mid greens are in. So, ditch forest green as it's quite hard to get the tone right, and choose a warming, lighter shade instead. 

Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador, Farrow & Ball agrees. He says, "Mid greens are always a safe bet — calming and relaxing. Something more nuanced like Farrow and Ball's French Gray , which is not too bright, creates a wonderful, restful environment."

Perfect living room color inspiration for a cozy, snuggly space.

5. Say no to black and opt for hot pink

Many love a dramatic living room and black will certainly bring that. But it can also zap the light from the room. Hot pink will bring drama without leeching the illumination from the space.

Annie Sloan CBE, paint and color expert, says, “I love bright living rooms, they give me energy, inspire me, and make me feel more sociable. This is your leisure space, where you can truly be yourself. Paint a color that makes your heart sing, and then for extra points, layer in a few splashes of a complementary color. 

"For example, transpose a deep hue with a hot pink, or offset a sunny yellow with a mellow green, for maximum color payoff. Save calmer shades for bedrooms."

We agree with Annie, and a hot pink although dramatic is uplifting yet cozy at the same time, which gives you the best of both worlds. The shade Annie used in the living room pictured above is Annie Sloan's Capri Pink.

5. Say bye to brilliant white and opt for chalk

There are many benefits to a bright white living room and it certainly gives you a blank canvas to play with. But it can feel too clinical, as well as very cold in a north-facing room. There are many off-white shades to choose from to create a similar look without the unwanted coolness.

 Mark Winstanley, chief creative officer at The White Company explains, “When working on a white scheme avoid cold, bluey-white tones and opt for softer whites like alabaster, ivory, and chalk. 

"There as so many variations of white on the market now, so invest in some sample pots and try before you buy. White-painted walls will instantly brighten up a gloomy room and make it feel bigger by expanding the space visually.”

For a lovely chalky white with a hint of warmth, consider Benjamin Moore's Gardenia AF-10.

6. Say no to dusky pink, try indigo

Dusty pink is a no? Whilst we are big fans of pink, there are certain shades that are better than others, and more suitable living room color ideas.

"Contrary to popular demand, and I hate to say it because I do love all colors but I would avoid dusty pink in a living room. It is very in Vogue right now but much like mauve in the 80’s when it goes out it is really going to go OUT and look extremely dated," explains Katie McCaffrey, owner and principal of McCaffrey Design Group.  

So what does Katie suggest instead? "If you want a splash of color I find dark blues always stand the test of time, they are very liveable no matter what shade."

7. Swap terracotta for sunshine yellow

Terracotta has been a popular choice over the last year and it definitely has its place, but rooms that bring real joy are a holding color theme, says Real Homes editor, Punteha van Terheyden. 

"The most important thing about choosing a living room color to update your outdated space, is picking one that makes you happy every time you look at it. Whilst terracotta is easy on the eyes, a sunny yellow will lift your spirit every time. And, if your living room is south-facing, yellow will make it quite literally glow."

Yellow, is full of positivity and joyfulness but if you don't want to use it all over, choose a feature wall or paint your woodwork instead. It really will lift your mood and looks great with other bright shades. 

For a yellow that packs a punch, try Benjamin Moore's Amarillo 320, it's not too acid bright but is still a happy shade. 

8. Opt for red over coral

Coral has been a popular choice over the last year, but be bold and commit to cozy vibes with a deep red. Vibrant and bold, it's a great choice for a north-facing living room that needs warming up. 

It also looks great paired with other bold pops of color — think yellow, bright pink, electric blue and orange. They will add dimension and break up an expanse of red. 

If you don't want to paint red, consider a beautiful red wallpaper instead such as the pretty Kenyon Floral Double Roll from Wayfair.

9. Avoid neutrals and choose charcoal

Neutrals have their place, but for a living room that looks stylish and has textural layers that are visually interesting, try a darker base such as charcoal gray.

It can be a warming color if you pick a shade with warming undertones. If the thought of going too dark is a little scary then take Katie McCaffrey's advice and dial it down a little.

"Warm greys and greiges also look great year after year, and can act like a lovely calming shell while you alter the colors of other items in the room — I like to do pops on pillows and rugs as it can be much easier and cost effective to swap out if you want to change the look or feel of your living room over time." 

Lick's Grey 07 Matt has warm green undertones and will look fabulous paired with crisp white. 

Color is very subjective and important to us all for different reasons, we can be guided by what's hot, but always choose a shade that you love and know if you take the plunge and hate it, you can paint over it and try again.

Next, cast a critical eye over your space and see if any of our tips on how to modernize an outdated small living room might bolster your aesthetic.

Steep Urban Outfitters discounts are underway, and they're a perfect start for that living room revamp you've been dreaming of. The retailer is generously extending its 40% off sale across all categories so get stuck in while stocks last.

Once you catch sight of Urban Outfitter's discounted home offers, you'll start rearranging to make way for your favorite finds. With nearly $500 off a leather sleeper sofa and bestselling area rugs at a fraction of their normal price, we can't say we'd blame you.

If you'd like to refresh your small living room in time for the warm weather and the forthcoming get-togethers you're planning, take a peek at UO's lovely price slashes.

Urban Outfitters discounted items for your living room

Shop by category

• Urban Outfitters rugs
• Urban Outfitters throw pillows
• Urban Outfitters seating
• Urban Outfitters lighting
• Urban Outfitters accent tables

What to shop

The current Urban Outfitters discounted home items boast plenty of cool ideas, whether you're looking to go the route of a small modern living room or want to add a bit of greenery to your space, which isn't necessarily required, but highly, highly recommended. 

Our list of indoor plants for living rooms boasts leafy beauties and low-maintenance selections, FYI.

Should you want to give other spaces in the house a little shake-up, UO's Vera Floral Bath Mat (was $39, now $23.40) is a colorful, cushy find that will add a colorful pop to your W.C.; the green scalloped Roma Wall Multi-Hook Shelf from UO (was $89, now $53.40) makes for lively small entryway wall decor ideas; and the Alayna Butterflies Curtain Panel at UO (was $49, now $29.40) is peak 2000s in the best way. Although they can work in a variety of rooms, they are best suited to small bedrooms.

Want more from the boho, Y2K-inspired retailer? We have you covered. These Urban Outfitters vanities are absolute beauts, and new Urban Outfitters bedroom decor will transform your space into a springtime floral fantasy. And let's not forget the whimsical Urban Outfitters lamps that will add personality to any room. 

Reese Witherspoon's living room is a cozy, cottagecore retreat tied together by one sophisticated element: gingham. 

The star recently gave TikTok fans a sneak peek into her space, a blue checkered throw pillow on her sofa. Our pros say it creates "nostalgia and charm that transcends trends" — and, you can channel the look with cute gingham items from just $14.

Adding touches of this classic pattern makes for an easy upgrade for a small living room, so our expert designer reveals how to make it work in any space and on a budget. 

Catch Reese Witherspoon's living room on TikTok

In a humorous TikTok clip, the actor is stationed comfortably on the sofa, skimming through her TV and film projects. But Reese Witherspoon's living room decor outshines her humorous marathon lineup in the best way possible, leading viewers commenting on the adorable look.

A small living room refresh doesn't need to be extensive — something as simple as a playful throw pillow can completely elevate the rest of the space and make a statement, as you see in Reese's case. The key is to tackle small accents first.  

"Start by incorporating gingham through decorative pillows, throws, or curtains," says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 

The Carol & Frank 50" x 60" Gingham Check Throw Blanket at Target is available in four shades and perfectly complements rustic home decor, while Urban Outfitters' Gingham Rose Breezy Cotton Percale Sheet Set acts as the perfect transitional home decor piece as spring gets underway. 

Gingham home items to shop

How to style the look

Once you're ready to style a sofa in a small living room and take a look at the bigger picture, you'll want to take colors and textures into consideration when working with gingham.

"Opt for neutral furniture upholstery to create a harmonious backdrop that allows the gingham pattern to shine," Nina adds. "Consider layering gingham with solid-colored textiles or other patterns, such as florals or stripes, to add depth and visual interest to the space."

What's more, Nina argues that gingham knows no bounds. It can work with colorful small living room ideas, modern small living room ideas, and beyond. 

"Whether in classic black and white, soft pastels, or bold hues, gingham exudes a sense of nostalgia and charm that transcends trends," she says. "Its clean lines and understated elegance make it a staple in both traditional and contemporary settings, ensuring its enduring popularity through the ages."

If you want to go bold, a peel-and-stick wallpaper with a gingham style or furniture upholstery can be the way to go. Consider Spoonflower's Peel & Stick Wallpaper in Blue Gingham on Amazon or West Elm's Heather Taylor Home Scarlett Bench to make it happen. 

Reese Witherspoon's living room is traditional, perhaps even infused with a touch of coastal influences. However, if you want to work with different styles, that means honing in on the surroundings.

"Natural materials such as rattan, wicker, or reclaimed wood accents beautifully complement the rustic simplicity of gingham," Nina adds. "For a refined look, incorporate metallic finishes like brass or gold in lighting fixtures, picture frames, or decorative accessories to add a touch of glamour to the relaxed charm of gingham."

If Reese Witherspoon's living room is your style crush, embrace the cute checkered look and let it do the talking.

This isn't the beloved actor and entrepreneur's only stylish setup. Reese Witherspoon's book nook is nothing short of fantastic, largely thanks to her soft, blush-toned accent chair, so we asked experts how to achieve a similar style. Kick back with a bestseller and enjoy!

If you weren't planning a spring refresh, the new Magnolia by Joanna Gaines x Loloi drop will certainly change your mind. 

The latest line of rugs and throw pillows is officially live and features a classic Fixer Upper aesthetic we can't resist. True to fashion, the collection is stylish, airy, and inviting -- all of the necessities for a successful gathering space. 

If you need a new direction for your small living room ideas, Jo's happy to lend her expertise and take your look to new levels. 

Browse the new Magnolia by Joanna Gaines x Loloi collab

Ideal for neutral small living room ideas and minimalist small living room ideas, Magnolia by Joanna Gaines x Loloi is considered a celebration of "brown-toned neutrals and vintage-inspired motifs along with elegant navy and aqua colors for a timeless selection of styles." Yes, please!

The release includes five new rug collections, Charlie, Gigi, Jones, Mona, and Nico, ranging from $200-$1,500, as well as three new throw pillows starting at $49 and offered in a variety of sizes and colors. 

Gigi is the line that most screams "Jo" due to its subtle shades and vintage-inspired motifs, but Charlie's ticking lines is particularly attractive due to its easy-to-clean material and indoor/outdoor capabilities (ideal if you're also brainstorming small backyard ideas for 2024.)

 The delightful Magnolia by Joanna Gaines x Loloi line is now available

 on Magnolia, Wayfair, and Amazon, to name a few retailers.

 As you're embarking on these easy upgrades for your small living room, don't pass on the spring Magnolia home buys, as they're a perfect complement. And let's be honest, you *definitely* have blooms at the ready for the customer favorite Green and White Distressed Vase from Magnolia. 

What to shop

There's certainly a lot to love with Magnolia by Joanna Gaines x Loloi, but here are a few beauts to help you start that refresh: 

Can't get enough of Jo and her impeccable style? Understandable! We swooned over Joanna Gaines' farmhouse tablescape recently, and the sweet setup will inspire you to prepare a romantic dinner for two. 

Knowing how to clean a velvet couch is key to maintaining its supple, luxury look and boy is it worth it, because these babies are as beautiful as they are stylish.

Velvet sometimes comes with a reputation as a fussy fabric, requiring extra care to maintain its rich color and plushness, but our cleaning and couch experts have detailed four simple steps to refresh yours, as well as products to use and avoid.

There's plenty to consider when it comes to cleaning upholstery, but zhuzhing up your velvet sofa doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow our expert-backed steps and you’ll have your velvet couch shining in no time.

How to clean a velvet couch with confidence

If you’re looking for advice on how to clean a couch, our industry pros are on hand with this guide to help you restore that luxe va-va-voom back to your velvet. If you're dealing with a urine stain, that will be a slightly different process that our experts have shared tips for in our dedicated guide to cleaning pee from a couch.

Where our experts have suggested helpful products for cleaning a velvet couch well, our matching product picks have at least 4.5/5 star reviews from shoppers.

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

Depending on the stains, you may need:

• Microfiber cloths
• Paper towels
• Rubbing alcohol
• Baking soda
• Dish soap
• Cleaning vinegar
• Handheld steamer
• Vacuum

Step 1: Know your velvet

Not all velvets are created equal. Natural ones are made of linen, silk, or mohair and require a bit more TLC, whilst synthetic velvets consist of nylon, rayon or polyester and can more easily withstand pets, stains and general wear-and-tear.

Whatever the composition, it’s important to check the care label and laundry symbol meanings before deciding how to clean a velvet couch in your home.

Amy Poulton, home improvement expert at DIY website Hometalk, says, “Your couch’s type of velvet will determine what you can use to clean it. Check the tag for the cleaning code and select cleaning products that match.”

The label codes to look out for include: 

• W — for water-based cleaning, such as with shampoo or foam
• S — for solvent cleaners
• WS — for water-based or solvent cleaners
• X — for vacuum only
• D — for dry-clean only

Amy adds, “When in doubt about using a cleaning product or method on a velvet couch, spot test in an inconspicuous section first — for example, on the underside of a cushion or at the back if it’s placed against a wall.”

Step 2: Spot-clean stains

Velvet is a plush princess — so spot-cleaning promptly when stains occur (including removing red wine stains) is critical to maintaining its regal elegance.

Amy says, “When a spill occurs, soak it up immediately using an absorbent, light-colored cloth or paper towel. If needed, apply a lifting liquid (such as diluted vinegar solution or a small amount of baking soda) by gently dabbing it onto the stain. Finally, sponge it off with water.

We like the Heinz cleaning vinegar available on Amazon, and recommend Amazon Basics microfiber towels. Just remember to learn how to wash microfiber cloths to help retain its absorbent properties and prolong its life.

“For tougher stains, such as ink, blot the stain with a tissue, working from the outside in to prevent further seeping. Gently scrub at the stain with a damp cloth and mild dish soap (such as Dawn EZ-Squeeze available at Target), cleaning off the soap with just water until no more ink transfers."

Finally, apply rubbing alcohol (our experts recommend the Equate 70% Rubbing Alcohol from Walmart) to a cotton ball and gently rub the stain in a circular motion. Wipe away any remaining rubbing alcohol with a damp cloth.

If you already have cleaning supply subscriptions, you may have ingredients such as Arm and Hammer Baking Soda from Amazon already. Though it’s always wise to test your product first on an inconspicuous area. 

Step 3: Vacuum

The best way to give your velvet the care it needs is a regular vacuum. Once a fortnight is a good place to start, with extra attention after parties or busy weekends. 

Cleaning expert Will Cotter, of HappyCleans, says, “Grab a vacuum cleaner (we recommend one of our highly-rated, tried and test best vacuum cleaners) with a soft brush attachment to gently remove any dust, dirt, and debris from the surface and within the fabric pile. 

"It's really important to do this before diving into any deep clean. The Shark Navigator Professional Lift-Away Vacuum from Walmart is a great choice for this task. It's got really powerful suction and works well on all kinds of surfaces, even delicate fabrics like velvet.”

Step 4: Steam clean

Vacuuming, brushing or spot cleaning your velvet couch can often leave creases or compression marks. A steamer can be just the trick.

Will says, “For wrinkles or creases, a handheld steamer (such as one of Real Homes tried and tested best steam cleaners) kept at a safe distance is ideal to smooth them out. Select a low setting and never use too much water."

To help maintain this fresh look, avoid placing heavy items directly on the couch. The weight can crush the fibers and create unsightly indentations.

High-quality steam cleaners include the Bissell Little Green HydroSteam we've reviewed. For those on small budgets, this handheld Koitat Handheld Steam Cleaner from Walmart is a snip.

The four simple steps above will ensure you show your velvet couch the luxe love it deserves. To carry on your cleaning streak of delicate living room items, our pros have also delved into how to clean jute rugs without damaging the fibers.

Crate & Barrel's spring collection masters coastal home decor, and we reckon you'll be happy as a clam perusing the new offerings for your gathering spaces.

Even if you're thousands of miles from the shore, the recently launched line is sure to evoke memories of feeling the sun on your face, and sand between your toes. Think navy scalloped throw pillows, rattan chairs, neutral-toned vases, and other beachy buys.

We can't see the love for Nancy Meyers-inspired coastal grandmother decor going anywhere, so why not embrace this popular seaside-vibes trend? Crate & Barrel's new drop is an ideal place to start.

If you're toying with new small living room ideas or debating dining room ideas, a beach vibe will offer a laid-back and welcoming feel. Plus, it's easy to achieve, according to interior designers. 

"To bring a coastal vibe into your home, focus on colors inspired by the sea and sky, like blues and sandy whites," says Soledad Alzaga, San Francisco-based interior designer. "Use natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, and driftwood for a beachy feel that's relaxed and inviting."

Start by decluttering your small living room (or dining room), and sticking with the basic textures. Once you start styling, make sure the space feels airy. You definitely don't overwhelm the room with too much stuff — less is more. 

"Keep the space light with fabrics like cotton and linen, use slipcovered sofas, sisal rugs and wood frames for art and mirrors," Soledad adds. "For furniture like dining and coffee tables, use natural oak or light woods."

What to shop

You might also like

Crate & Barrel's coastal home collection can run on the pricier side, so we rounded up budget-friendly coastal decor picks that are just as stylish and well-made but at a budget-friendly price point. 

Crate & Barrel isn't the only retailer embracing coastal vibes. Ashley Tisdale's Frenshe Interiors teamed up with HomeThreads for a chill West Coast-inspired collection, and the new Anthropologie Katie Hodges collab is a masterclass in California cool.

Hilary Duff's bouclé couch might not be the star of her recent Instagram photo — that honor goes to her kiddos — but the show-stopper is totally worthy of attention and admiration.

The actor and mother of three, soon to be four, wrangled the whole crew into her living room to take a sweet snap on the couch, a task that required "promised popsicles," according to her caption. Not only is the seating area and space itself warm and welcoming, but it hits all of 2024’s favorite trends. 

If you're in need of small living room ideas and want to add a dash of cozy chic to your gathering spot, Hil's place is one to mimic. 

The bouclé trend started gaining traction in early 2023 and shows no signs of slowing down. Though the curled yarn fibers are certainly cozy, oftentimes the shapes of the bouclé living room furniture adds a modern aesthetic to the space. 

Typically, small minimalist living room ideas start with a bouclé sofa or accent chair, and then the look builds from there. 

"Designers on Houzz recommend incorporating different tones, textures, and patterns to create a more layered look that gives a room seasonal versatility," says Mitchell Parker, senior editor of Houzz. 

We catch this in Hilary's home with wood panels, a glass coffee table, floral accents, and a dreamy, blue living room curtain idea. Speaking of blue, it's also one of the most popular small space color trends that is currently taking over.

"With so much going on in the world, blue provides a calming influence," Mitchell says. "Whether it’s a sky-inspired hue or a deep watery color, look for an array of blues to be featured more prominently in decorative materials and housewares in the coming year."

Even if you don't go the blue curtain route, you can certainly add the hue in via throw blankets and pillows, affordable wall art, and area rugs.

What to shop

Though the exact brand of Hilary's couch isn't featured in her post, generally bouclé couches go for around $2,000-$3,000.

"Investing in quality furniture like sofas, beds, and case pieces that are stylish and timeless will save you major money and headache over time," says designer Nicole Cullum, the founder of Color Caravan. "Performance upholstery with solid frames will last longer than the latest steal of a deal."

We've included all bouclé swivel chair looks at a variety of price points if you're considering easy upgrades for your small living room.

Looking for more inspo? We asked designers about the small living room design trends taking over.

Ashley Tisdale, Frenshe, and HomeThreads have joined forces to launch Haven, a new line of California-inspired furniture for living and dining rooms.  

The actor-turned-interior-designer's new collection brings sophistication without compromising comfort. From bouclé chairs and rattan sideboards, to an ecru polyester couch and dark wooden cabinets, Haven's selections focus on gathering spots in the home and evoke a modern, yet natural style.

If you're looking for small living room ideas, or honing your gathering spaces with small dining room ideas, you'll no doubt want to channel Haven's laidback essence. 

The collab is coastal cool meets desert chic, and we couldn't love it more. 

"I really like when pieces feel rustic and charming but have a clear modern point-of-view," Ashley says. "That’s the style that really speaks to me at the moment."

The pieces are also a good example of minimalism and neutral small living room ideas done right: you have a mix of textures, natural elements, and an overall airy, light feel. But make no mistake, that's not a sign of a dull space — far from it. 

"It’s all about materials, design, and functionality," designer Nicole Cullum says of minimalism. "It's not bare bones but simplicity with purpose. Think about where you want your guests' eyes to land."

The Haven pieces offer style and practicality and if you pick these for your home, will no doubt draw visitors' towards the engaging items. Our expert shoppers love the hourglass concrete vase for a table centerpiece, and the contemporary green velvet chair for a pop of color. 

What to shop

If you're looking to refresh a small living room with some California cool, these Haven pieces offer a lot to love.

Shop similar styles

In need of budget-friendly easy upgrades for your small living room? You can capture the same Cali style with these pieces from some of our other favorite brands.

For a similar style to Haven, shop the new Anthropologie Katie Hodges collab, a masterclass in California cool. The Los Angeles-based designer uses her hometown as inspo for her line of chairs, bedding, and decor.

If you live in a little home, learn how to maximize space in a small living room for a boost in function. Just a few clever tricks will help you make the most of what you already have.

Our interior designers and design pros have plenty of useful advice if you're unsure of how to fully utilize yours. From fitting in furniture properly, to prioritizing functionality, we've got the lowdown on their top tips and tricks.

You might be looking for stylish small living room ideas, but we're here to give you all the practical know-how, too. Making your space work as hard for you as possible is just as important as adding delightful decor.

How to maximize space in a small living room

By using just a few small living room organization ideas and selecting certain furniture pieces, you can make your space shine even more.

If our experts have recommended any helpful products, we've also found shoppable buys we're eyeing up for our own homes.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Go for multifunctional furniture

Every small living room furniture piece counts, so it’s important to pick pieces which will do as much for your space as possible.

“I like to seek out pieces with multiple purposes, such as coffee tables with storage, a sofa bed to accommodate guests (we like this Papajet Sofa Bed on Walmart), and storage ottomans you can also use as seating,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

Next time you’re choosing furniture, such as if you’re at a secondhand furniture store, check if the piece you’re in love with can work in multiple ways before you head to the cash register.

2. Optimize seating arrangements

Whether you’re kicking back on the couch or snuggling up in an armchair, every living room needs seating.

Artem says, “Pick ones with the right size for your space and place seating against the wall to make the floor space look larger.”

He adds, “Make sure the seating furniture won't occupy the pathway, too.”

Allowing energy in your living room to flow as smoothly as possible is also a key part of small living room Feng Shui.

3. Utilize vertical space

Maximizing space in a small living room doesn’t just involve floor space — it involves putting those walls to work as well.

Artem explains, “You can gain floor space and create a less-cluttered room by mounting your TV and the shelves on the walls. It also angles the eye upward, which gives an impression of height.”

If you’re renting and can’t drill into the walls, utilizing damage-free strips (we always recommend these Command Strips on Amazon) will allow you to hang up less heavy shelves.

4. Define zones

In a small living room layout, it can be easy to fall into the pattern of creating one central space for relaxing. With a few clever tricks though, you can create lots of cozy spaces to chill. 

“Use rugs, furniture placement, and lighting to create designated areas for conversation, reading, or relaxing,” says Mohammad Ahmed, interior designer and founder of The Home Guidance.

He adds, “This visually breaks up the space without walls.”

For example, you could place down a rug (this VK Living Rug on Amazon will make a big statement) and throw down an armchair (this Muumblus Modern Accent Chair on Walmart is so cute) to create an inviting reading nook.

5. Edit down your decor

Showing off your personality is key in living rooms — after all, this is the area where guests will get to know you.

This being said, too many pieces can overwhelm the whole room. If you want to make the most of your small living room space, letting it breathe is one of the best things you can do.

“Keep the decor simple and minimal, as too many accessories can make a small living room feel cluttered and cramped,” says Ricky Allen, interior designer and director of Ever Wallpaper.

If you’re trying to make a small living room look bigger before people arrive, take a step back and edit out any items not adding anything to the overall finish.

6. Declutter regularly

The living room is the area you probably use the most, so it’s understandable if you’ve left bags on the floor, placed down mugs on the surfaces, or forgotten to pick up the trash.

These are easy mistakes to make, but allowing unnecessary clutter to build up will make it look smaller and won’t help you maximize your small living room.

Artem says, “A room with all the clutter removed appears, and feels, to be larger.”

To give your small living room a declutter, we recommend moving any items on surfaces onto the floor and moving them into piles of things to keep, things to donate, and things to trash. From here, you can move items accordingly. 

If there is anything you aren’t sure about, store it in a plastic bin (these IRIS USA Stackable Bins on Amazon would be perfect) and keep it in storage until you’re ready to part with it.

Taking the time to learn how to maximize space in your small living room will help you enjoy being in your space even more.

We also recommend finding out ways to maximize space in your small bedroom, as this will make drifting off to sleep so much dreamier.

Knowing how to refresh a small living room will come in handy, whether you're getting ready to spring clean your home, or want to give it a good sprucing up.

We've spoken with interior designers who are used to heading into homes and glowing them up to find out what they do to freshen up this small space. Quickly decluttering and repurposing decor are just some of their favorite ways to do this.

You might be looking for new small living room ideas, but giving what you already have some TLC can have just as brilliant an effect as decorating with all-new pieces.

How to refresh a small living room

By cleaning, resetting, and organizing your small living room, your space will feel so much better to sit back and relax in.

Where our experts have mentioned anything specific, we've also found some helpful buys for you to shop, so you can start refreshing ASAP.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Start by decluttering

When moving through the living room, it can be so easy to drop items here and there, not realizing they’re building up mess in your wake. 

“It may not seem like much, but clearing clutter from your small living room could give your space an entirely new look,” says Ivo Iv, home improvement expert and founder of Decor Home Ideas.

He continues, “Start by removing any items not serving a purpose in the room and clear any flat surfaces to provide the room with a neat look.”

As for smaller items which may serve a purpose, Ivo says to consider containing them. “You can stack magazines and small art pieces on the shelf to add to the space decoratively,” he adds. 

Freestanding shelves such as this ladder shelf on Wayfair are great if you're renting or don't want to DIY wall shelves.

When deciding what items to remove, consider the Marie Kondo tidying up approach. Her bottom line is: if it an item isn't sparking joy, it’s probably worth booting.

2. Consider furniture placement

If you’re looking for ways to redecorate without splashing any cash whatsoever, you’re going to love this trick.

Ivo explains, “This is the most straightforward and cost-effective way to revamp your living room, as your furniture arrangement significantly impacts the overall perception of this space.”

Our experts have shared how to arrange furniture in a small living room, including around a focal point, and how best to zones areas for function.

A cozy conversation-based living room will have a different arrangement from one centered around the TV area. “Decide on the mood you want the room to inspire and then rearrange the room to fit it,” Ivo adds.

The right placements can even improve your small living room Feng Shui and energy flow, which is always a big win. This sectional sofa from Zinus is reversible so you can customize it to your layout.

3. Hang a mirror up

Even if you can’t magically transform the size of your space, you can make your small living room look bigger by bringing in a beautiful mirror. 

“Mirrors can make a small room appear more spacious and open by reflecting light and views,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

To make the most of this effect, locate a big mirror on the opposite side of the window, or on a wall in need of more depth.

You could do this with either a full-length mirror (we like this artsy wavy Wrought Studio Amon Mirror on Wayfair) or a circular mirror (this Beautypeak Round Mirror on Amazon has over 1,600 five-star reviews), depending on how dramatic an effect you’re after.

4. Repurpose existing decor

We love buying sparkly new small living room decor pieces, but working with the beauties you already have in your home can be just as effective.

Ivo explains, “You can change the placement of your wall art, relocate a plant, or even change your window treatments to give your small living room an updated look.”

The secret here, according to Ivo, is changing the visual outlook of the room. Don’t be afraid to look outside the living room, too. If you have your best candles or throw pillows in a small guest bedroom you’re not using, consider moving these to your living space instead to make the most out of them.

5. Add a few plants

You don’t need to turn your home into a fabulous tropical plant jungle, but even adding one or two indoor plants will add vibrancy to your home.

“One of the best ways to refresh smaller living spaces is to bring it to life with indoor plants and trees,” says Heather O’Donovan, design expert and founder of Hortihop.

She says to consider pairing an aglaonema (this Nature’s Way Farms Aglaonema on Walmart is eye-catching) against a brick wall to bring out the brick's softer tones or a bromeliad (this bromeliad Antonio Pink from The Sill would make a great gift) against a yellow wall for a pop of color and added fun.

Heather also says you can add 'Black Raven' ZZ plants (we love this moody Costa Farms ZZ Plant on Walmart) against darker green, navy, or black backdrops to enrich those cozy darker hues. 

“Aesthetically varied, often colorful, and with something for everyone, indoor plants enrich our homes and our lives — winter, spring, summer, or fall,” Heather adds.

Not only this, but plants last longer than fresh flowers, as lovely as these blooms are.

You don’t need to put in a lot of effort to give your small living room a refresh. use these tips throughout the year, whether you’re hosting guests or just want to switch things up. 

If you want to carry on re-energizing your home, we also love these renter-friendly ways to refresh small bathrooms.

Windows looking a little weary? Small living room curtain ideas are about to become your best friend. You may not have paid much attention to your curtains in the past, but trust us — they can make or break a space.

We've got you and your windows covered if you want to zhuzh up your curtains. Our interior designers have shown us what they do to make these shine in their clients' spaces. Breezy fabrics and coordinating colors are just some of the ways they do this.

If you're searching for small living room ideas, paying attention to details such as curtains will give your space the wow-factor it deserves.

Small living room curtain ideas

Curtains are an important part of making small living rooms feel cozy, so it's a good idea to get yours looking fab.

Where our experts have recommended specific styles, we have also found curtain buys to help you shop their tips.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Add drama with length

By maximizing vertical space, you can make a small living room appear bigger, as the eye will be drawn upwards. This is a clever trick to easily tick off with curtains.

“A fantastic way of making a small living room look more spacious is utilizing floor-to-ceiling curtains (we like these Lilijan Home & Curtain Panels from Wayfair),” says Ivo Iv, home improvement expert and founder of Decor Home Ideas.

He adds, “One thing you need to pay attention to is your curtain height. It needs to be long enough to touch the floor barely, or else they’ll look unfinished.”

Ivo also says hanging your curtains at ceiling height, rather than window height, adds an element of drama to your space. 

2. Go light and airy

Going for breezy vibes with your curtains will lighten your space and give your small living room a boho look.

Ivo explains, “Sheer curtains are great at diffusing light, allowing a soft glow which will make small living room feel airy.”

He adds they also lend a soft, textured look to your space, and you can layer them with much thicker curtains to add interest.

As well as curtains, you could also go for sheer shades (these Hidodo Light Filtering Shades are Amazon's Choice) for a similar effect.

“They function super well, are adjustable to cut the light, and give a gauzy and soft element to the windows without taking up space,” says Caroline Kopp, interior designer and founder of Caroline Kopp Interior Design.

They are also a great solution if your windows have big sills, like the ones in the New York City apartment Caroline designed.

3. Play with color

One of our top tips is to use curtains as a colorful small living room idea, as this will help you bring vibrancy to the room. 

Ivo explains, “Curtains are an excellent avenue for completing or enhancing a room’s color palette.”

This is especially useful for those who are renting and can’t add the best paint colors for small living rooms (we can relate to this pain).

“I recommend choosing curtains which complement the color of your walls to make your room feel much more open and brighter,” Ivo adds.

If you want to add extra pizzazz, you can still use a contrasting color, but Ivo says to make sure you use matching accents to create a cohesive look.

4. Bring in fun patterns

It’s not just color you can use to create a striking interest point with your curtains, you know.

“The benefits of adding patterns to small living rooms include creating dimensional accent walls, providing privacy, and adding character in spades,” says Stephanie Meyer, principal designer and owner of AVCO Design.

She adds, “A small living room can be just the place to imbue personality to gathering spaces.”

From gorgeous geometric prints (these Exclusive Home Geometric Curtains at Target are stunning) to fabulous florals (we're swooning over these Jinchan Paisley Curtains on Amazon), there is so much style potential.

5. Choose shutters

You can also add shutters to give your space even more light and privacy. These can either be hung by themselves or alongside curtains.

“I prefer for the shutter to be on the lower portion of the window if they are double hung, so there is still natural light coming through unobstructed,” says Sarah Storms, interior designer and founder of Styled By Storms.

You may need to get this custom-fit for your windows — you could always DIY your own if you’re particularly crafty — but the slick result will be worth it. 

Curtains are a quick, easy way to elevate your small living space. If you don’t want to purchase new curtains, you could even sew up your own with material from secondhand furniture stores for a statement piece no one else will have.

When the weather outside is frightful, small living room fireplace ideas are especially delightful. Who doesn't love the idea of snuggling in front of a crackling fire after a long day?

If you're in need of some fabulous fireplace inspo, we've got you covered. We've spoken with design experts to find out what they do to get them looking sparkling. From luscious plants to asymmetrical accents, they have plenty to set your imagination alight.

For those looking for small living room ideas, embracing the size of the space and enhancing the snugness is one of the best things you can do.

Small living room fireplace ideas

When you're making your small living room look cozy, highlighting your small fireplace is one of the best ways to elevate this space.

Wherever possible, we've also found beautiful buys to match our experts' advice, in case you want to give your fireplace a glow-up.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Add asymmetrical accents

You can make your small living room fireplace look extra eye-catching by adding fun and playful accent pieces.

“Create an asymmetrical look by putting up two different decorations on the fireplace mantlepiece or even next to the fireplace,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

He continues, “I like to go for ones not similar in any aspect such as style and size, livening this area up completely.”

You could do this with vases, flowers, and even photo frames and stands (we have this UO Strawberry Photo Stand on our wish list), creating an eclectic mix showcasing your personality.

2. Play with metallic accents

Add sparkle to your fireplace by using materials which will also make your small living rooms look bigger.

Artem explains, “To enhance light, use reflective materials such as a mirrored mantel or metallic accents on the fireplace to create an impression of a spacious room by playing with reflections.”

Not only will these magically do this, but materials in gold, silver, and bronze colors will also make your small space look luxe in a subtle, chic way. We love a win-win.

3. Go for a freestanding fireplace

If you’re reading this and are feeling the fireplace FOMO, don’t stress — you can actually bring a fireplace into your home without having to renovate the whole place.

“Not everyone has a traditional fireplace, but most everyone can get a similar effect with free-standing designs or fireplace inserts for cabinets,” says Lou Anne Dunn, designer and founder of Neatly Dunn.

If you are short on space, Lou also recommends going for a small fireplace insert (we like this Betelnut Electric Fireplace on Amazon) in a cabinet instead. 

4. Use it as hidden storage

Have you ever wanted a secret place to hide things in your home? If you have a fireplace you aren't using, you can live out this fantasy with this small living room storage solution.

Artem says, “A clever way of decluttering small living rooms is through integrating hidden storage within the fireplace surround or mantel.”

For example, you could add a small dark storage cupboard (this Iwell Storage Cabinet on Amazon would be perfect) as a hidden compartment.

5. Surround it with indoor plants

It’s not just fabulous, fiery flames you can use to add warmth to your fireplace. Going for a touch of greenery will also do this, too.

“You can also style indoor plants around your fireplace to bring an organic touch to the space, to remind of the natural element of fire,” says Amanda Wiss, design expert and founder of Urban Staging and Urban Clarity.

Artem adds, “Hang plants above the fireplace and on the mantlepiece, and see how fire warmth mixes with the freshness of indoor plants to make a tiny living room more lively.”

Amanda recommends going for leafy plants such as ferns, as these will frame fireplaces beautifully.

By giving your fireplace some serious love, you can create a space in your living room you truly look forward to snuggling up in. Just give us a mug of tea, a throw blanket, and a roaring flame to keep us happy. You could even light a candle or two as well, to add even more coziness.

Unsurprisingly, Sofía Vergara's house tour, courtesy of Architectural Digest, has blown everyone away. 

The sprawling Los Angeles abode designed by Ohara Davies-Gaetano is "ethereal yet grounded" and the perfect place to host guests. Every inch of the space is breathtaking, from the blush pink Persian Tabriz rug and white couches in the living room. 

Beyond the open, airy aesthetic, there are a few details that have gone unnoticed. One has kicked our vintage revival into high gear — a 2024 small space interiors trend — and motivated us to peruse #ThriftTok.

Sofía Vergara's house tour

When creating the look of her home, Sofía curated vintage pieces from Sweden, Spain, France, and Italy, according to AD. 

One that deserves way more time in the spotlight is the distressed muted mint-green armoire stationed next to a fireplace. 

The neutral living room gets a little pop of color and a rustic charm thanks to the armoire, which almost goes unnoticed. We, however, zoned in and haven't stopped thinking about the piece of furniture since. 

Even if you're working with tight quarters and figuring out how to fill an awkward-sized small space, we're making the case for an armoire, as it's part storage, part show-stopper.

Copy the look

If you're intent on a luxe small living room idea like Sofía's armoire, we found a few copycat styles worth exploring.

DIY it

If you can't quite come across what you're looking for, you might have to take matters into your own hands with a DIY, especially if you want that handmade look. Fortunately, we spoke to experts about how to paint furniture. Sand, prime, and find a chalk paint color you like, and voila!  

Preparing to have guests? They'll need a place to gather, so why find one of the 2024 small living room trends that speaks to you before sending out a calendar invite?

If you're wondering what bookshelf wealth is, you're not alone. This style has seemed to come out of nowhere, but is one of the biggest design trends to come out of 2024 so far.

We've spoken with interior designers who have seen it emerging and clients clamoring to find out what exactly it is, where it's come from, and how you can get the look at how. Spoiler alert — it's actually easy and inexpensive to do, despite the name.

When it comes to interior design trends, it can be hard to tell which ones are here to stay and which ones will fade away. We're certain bookshelf wealth is here to stay though, as it's seriously timeless.

Bookshelf wealth

This style is primarily a living room trend, but it can work in other areas of the home. We've broken everything down into common questions, as well as putting together a gorgeous shopping edit at the end.

What is bookshelf wealth?

First off, what exactly does this phrase mean when it comes to design?

“Bookshelf wealth is a metaphor for the idea books can be a source of wealth,” says Nancy Parrish, interior designer and founder of Nancy Parrish Interiors.

She continues, “Books can provide knowledge, which can be used to improve one's life in other ways or as a means to escape.”

It’s not what the books are but what they represent which makes the shelves of worth.

“The trend is more about the meaning and value these books have for you,” says Kanika Khurana, principal interior designer and founder of Kanika Design.

She explains, “It’s a way of displaying your life story and interests through the books and other items you’ve collected over time, such as wall art prints, photos, souvenirs, and knick-knacks.”

One easy way to display these is with a versatile photo frame, such as this Unsimples Picture Frame on Amazon. Kanika adds it's also about showing your unique style and taste, as no two bookshelf wealth spaces will look alike.

Where did bookshelf wealth come from?

While displaying books on shelves obviously isn’t a new concept (after all, bookshelves are one of the things all small living rooms need), the design term ‘bookshelf wealth’ is now an official thing.

“Bookshelf wealth trend started as a TikTok trend, where users shared videos of their bookshelf wealth spaces, showing how they arranged their books and other objects in a creative and stylish way,” says Kanika.

The trend soon became popular on other platforms, as more people became inspired to create their own bookshelf wealth spaces. This being said, it actually just hasn’t come out of nowhere.

Nancy explains, “Book clubs and travel clubs have brought more awareness especially in the past years, as reading has become the ‘wealth’ of learning.”

She adds travel has also become more precious, so displaying those curated items brings the remembrance of those special times.

Why interior designers love bookshelf wealth

While TikTok has brought this trend to the forefront, it’s now a design choice many designers are working into their transformations.

“What I love about the bookshelf wealth trend is it's much more of a timeless decor investment than a fleeting viral trend, says Kathy Kuo, interior design expert and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

She adds, “Artfully arranging and displaying your books on your shelves alongside keepsakes and meaningful decorative accents is a lovely way to infuse your style into a space, as well as simply storing your book collection on a practical level.”

When it comes to small space interior design trends for 2024, bringing personality in a big way is a key element we’re seeing everywhere.

How to decorate with bookshelf wealth

Fallen in love with bookshelf wealth? Same. Luckily, it’s super easy to do and is a brilliant way to make your small living room cozy.

“Start with the books you already have and if you're interested in expanding the aesthetic, use it as an opportunity to ask your friends what books they love — then gradually add to your shelf design as you expand your personal library,” Kathy suggests.

If your shelves are looking a little bare, you could always head to a thrift or second-hand furniture store like Goodwill and pick up some new books. Or, you could grab an aesthetic book collection, such as these JRR Tolkien Hardcovers on Amazon.

Along with books, you can also bring in beautiful finishing touches. Kanika explains, “Add artistic features such as paintings, prints, posters, sculptures, as well as indoor plants, candles, and clocks,” she says.

For those looking to bring a pop of color onto their shelves, we love this Katharina Puritscher Print from Desenio, which is seriously Parisian. 

One of our favorite cozy candles is this Paddywick John Steinbeck Candle, which our content editor Danielle Valente tried and fell in love with.

If you want to go down the greenery route, choosing an air-purifying plant like Walmart's Costa Farms Devil's Ivy will freshen up the space.

Nancy adds, “Both books and decor add an opportunity to bring color and vibrancy if you're hesitant to saturate the walls in color.”

This is especially useful for those who are renting and can’t add the best paint colors for small living rooms onto their walls.

Once you’ve fixed up your shelves, Nancy says to style around it cozy seating, such as a couch (we have this Mercer41 Loveseat from Wayfair on our wish list), where you can curl up with a book and a cup of tea.

Shop the bookshelf wealth edit

Want to get the look yourself? We've picked out some gorgeous buys to help you bring the bookshelf wealth trend into your home.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Overall, bookshelf wealth is all about showcasing your own tastes in a big way. “The main goal is to create a visually appealing and harmonious arrangement showcasing your books and other items in a way you love,” Kanika finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for more bookish trends, dark academia is a chic choice for those who love a little bit of gothic style.

Charming, timeless, inherently beautiful, we're talking about mid-century small living room ideas. You've probably encountered this interior design style without even knowing it, but it's the one that had that touch of put-together coolness.

It might look effortless but it's anything but, needing balance pull it off. Our expert interior designers dive into bringing mid-century small living room ideas to life with wooden pieces, tufted furniture, and slimline, low-slung chairs.  

Achieve this unfussy, earthy, yet energizing vibe that works brilliantly as a small living room idea, with inspiration from our super seven style tips.

7 mid-century small living room ideas 

Simply put, mid-century design is cool without being overdone, and timeless without feeling dusty. Lack of square footage will not interrupt this interior design style's presence with help from our panel of experts and their recommendations.

1. Keep it simple with a gentle contrast of colors

The mid-century modern aesthetic is eye-catching for many reasons, including its balanced color palettes. When deciding your mid-century smaller living room idea, lean into a neutral base palette, before layering shades of brown.

Interior designer Amy Youngblood says. "When designing a mid-century style living room, stick with a more neutral and light pallet. I like colors such as caramel, tan, blacks, shades or white with pops of green." 

The key is to keep it pared-back. Amy adds, "The mid-century modern era produced a lot of nature-inspired colors so keep it organic looking and simple!"

2. Let artistic elements speak for themselves

While a vintage Picasso print (such as Harlequin on horseback here) does not really need emphasis, a small mid-century modern design takeaway is its soft and unfussy approach to colorful accessories and wall decor. Notice how Harlequin stands alone, with just a dash of natural and artificial light, and that is enough to add style and elegance. 

"Vibrant throw pillows, bold area rugs, fun lighting, and eye-catching wall art can inject personality and warmth into the space without overwhelming it," explains Amy. "The key lies in striking a balance between simplicity and pops of color, creating a harmonious mid-century small living room that feels both inviting and stylish."

3. Add life with greenery

A biophilic element (things that connect people with nature) will make a small mid-century modern living room more lively, not to mention that greenery nearly always features in this style of space.

"Stay with neutral base colors such as soft grays or warm beiges but apply nature-infused accents," says designer Artem Kropovinsky. Think indoor plants, in architectural vases, and hang them up to enjoy adding height and green texture to your room.

4. Soften with pink tones and upholstered furniture

Curated pieces from Crate & Barrel, Urban Outfitters, and Ruggable (where you can find similar super soft shag carpets) come together in this Farrow & Ball pink painted room as put together by @domandecors. It shows a sweet take on mid-century design. 

The upholstered sofa combined with the sharp Sputnik lighting fixture make this small mid-century living room pretty divine, don't you think? We reckon this six-light ceiling mount Sputnik fixture with adjustable arms and dimmer capacity from Wayfair would emulate this look perfectly.

Mid-century design is not without texture, and using rugs and cozier elements is the perfect way to soften wood, and sharper-edged materials too. 

"I love to mix materials for a small mid-century living room," continues Amy. "Leather, metal, glass, acrylic, and textured fabrics all enhance and bring interest to the space."

5. Let furniture anchor the space and streamline the layout

With the design of any minimal small space, there is no room for clutter, and the same goes for bringing a mid-century vibe to your living room. "Creating a stylish mid-century small living room involves a thoughtful approach to furniture selection and layout," says designer Jennifer Davis.

"Embracing the minimalist character of the mid-century design era, opt for a less-is-more approach when it comes to furniture. Choose functional yet interesting pieces that serve dual purposes, such as a sleek coffee table with hidden storage or console that doubles as a bar. Additionally, emphasize the importance of white space to give the illusion of openness."

These elements will help you avoid small living room layout mistakes.

7. Give it life with geometric and colorful accents

"To strengthen the mid-century feel, use some lighting fixtures with geometric shapes," continues Artem. 

It's clear @domandecors does this beautifully in this small lounge space, which also features a linear patterned Ruggable and curvaceous forms in the couch and coffee table. 

Although the furniture, such as the olive-green sofa, is chunky, since the color and pattern aren't over the top, it doesn't overwhelm the small living room.

7. Let it take a retro twist

We told you there were options and we love @mylifeinmulticolor's take on mid-century on this maximalist small space. 

The cloud wall mural, bright carpet, and artwork is all toned down and brought together by a charming wooden cabinet and groovy chair. It proves that sometimes going big is all you need in a small space. Jazz up a more minimal scheme with a cute addition like this bubble candle from Target  or pop art print from Etsy.

Though a neutral base is often where designers start, especially if working with a small space, adding color in this way can ignite a mid-century modern scheme beautifully. 

"Use a neutral color palette for larger furniture items and walls, allowing colorful accents to take center stage," recommends Amy. 

Go big on curves, especially with big furniture items, and be sure to contrast textures and have fun with color and lighting. Mid-century modern living room ideas are a firm favorite in small spaces that want to look cool and timeless. 

Next, take vibe elsewhere in your home, with celeb inspiration from Olivia Rodrigo's mid-century dining room.

Exposed brick walls and metal accents are a tiny part of industrial small living room ideas. You can also have pipework on show and perhaps a little leather.

This interior design style is perfect for refreshing spaces and give them a bit of cool edge. Our interior designers have delved into how to bring industrial vibes into your space, including how to employ clever layering and brightening elements. 

Take a peek through our expert guide and soak up their six brilliant ways to bring the industrial look to your small living room.

Industrial small living room ideas that bring all the cool

We're impressed, inspired, and ready to jump into our cool warehouse home era with these industrial small living room ideas from expert interior designers.

1. Use pops of geometric and color

Add a pop of color in your industrial small living room through artwork or throw in geometric cushions, but keep colors uniform by sticking with two to three, max. 

Lisa Kanning, founder of LKID interiors explains, “When approaching the design of a small space, we typically maintain a neutral backdrop. We use natural tones in a monochromatic color scheme with accents of color if desired."

For patterns, favor stripes, and geometrical forms.

2. Let light 'interact' with materials

In your industrial small living room, use multiple textures to add dimension. "Our designs tend to rely heavily on the use of texture," says Lisa.

We love the comfortable sofa set against the fabric-top coffee table in the image above. It softens the metal in the background perfectly.

We found this gorgeous Ermine coffee table by Joss & Main at Wayfair that ticks a lot of industrial chic boxes: leather, wrought iron, and slick design.

You can employ other methods in your small industrial-style living room to showcase brilliant design features.

Lisa explains, "The interaction of light with the different materials creates interest without distraction, allowing more diminutive size rooms to still have an impact." 

Consider how natural and artificial small living room lighting will land in the space to create intriguing moodiness without the atmosphere being too dark, or overwhelming.

3. Be minimal, but add dimension

As with minimalist small living room ideas, you'll find crossover here, with texture being a great way to add dimension without cluttering up the room.  

Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of award-winning Arsight, demonstrates this with his choices, pictured above, of simple artwork and a quiet monochrome color palette. The indoor plants on the wooden cabinet add natural and visual cues, whilst bringing height without being over the top and distracting. 

If you love the cool black and white print Artem chose for the wall, this ampersand design on canvas at Walmart will bring a similar vibe on a smaller scale. 

Artem notes how past design trends always come back into fashion, with industrial seeing a warmed-up revival for smaller living rooms in recent times.

If you're into a contemporary finish, Artem says, "Merge geometric shapes and patterns in minimal amounts like on pillows or artwork. This ensures variety without occupying too much space."

4. Soften hard materials with layered fabrics

Using a little texture will gently soften metals, marbles, and hard floors — all typical of an industrial setting. Making mindful furnishing choices, such as picking a higher pile living room rug (one of a few essential items for a small living room), will bring balance and stop your space coming off as cold.

Industrial small living room ideas should feel inviting, so whilst a monochromatic color scheme is fairly typical of this aesthetic, including a beige item or incorporating texture, as Artem has done here, will warm things up. 

Just a smattering of these touches will be enough to bring a touch of coziness whilst still nodding to all the cool moodiness of industrial small living room style.

5. Expose brickwork a little differently

To lift a small industrial living room, even if it's in an open-plan apartment, paint exposed brickwork in a loftier living room color like eggshell to brighten the space.

If you rent and can't paint, or don't live in a loft with brick walls but want this look, thank those who cleverly invented peel-and-stick wallpaper.

Home Depot has a ton of brick-printed removable peel-and-stick wallpaper if you fancy giving this clever renter-friendly wall decor option a whirl.

6. Nail furniture layout

Interior designer, Amy Youngblood, advises on how best to to weave in industrial furniture picks in a small space.

She says, "Laying things out can be tricky when the room is more narrow type of space. I like to utilize wall space as much as possible, with sofas or chairs against the wall and open up the middle with a larger, often rectangular cocktail table or ottoman. This creates proper egress around the center of the room."

Curves are in, especially in modern small living room design, but when leaning into an industrial style in a setting that is a little space-starved, Amy recommends filling it wisely.

'While curved furniture is very in style right now, more straight-lined sofas maximize the area the best. If you want to integrate curves, add in round or curved smaller-scaled lounge chairs for a bit of pop."

Use quality materials and avoid over-scaled furniture that doesn’t fit properly  —both cheapen the look of the space.

Love the industrial look even more now? Continue the vibe into the kitchen like Florence Pugh has done with her shelves...

Bringing small living room trends into this area of the home is an easy way to make it feel fresh and fabulous. It's an area you probably spend a lot of time in (we know we do), so it's a great one to devote some effort to.

Whether you're looking for inspo, or want a whole shake-up, we've got you. We've chatted with design experts to find out what trends they're excited to be working with in 2026. If you like personal touches and vintage vibes, you're going to love these.

For those decorating with the latest small space interior trends, start with this room and you'll immediately feel the benefit in your home. 

The latest small living room trends

When looking for living room trends, hone in on those specially suited to small spaces will usher in fab style without cluttering up your space.

As well as five tips from our interior designers, we've cherry-picked matching buys so you can start enjoying these trends in your home ASAP.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Warm minimalism

Modern small living room ideas last year involved black and white color palettes and plenty of metallic touches. This year, we're seeing a switch to cozier tones.

“Going for a warm minimalistic look will make a small living room look bigger,” says Tommy Mello, home improvement expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

He continues, “Choose light and airy accent colors like beige and white, then complement these with warmer tones such as peaches and oranges.”

As well as this, Tommy stresses warm minimalism involves only bringing in necessary furniture and decor. A soft couch, throw pillows, and a glowy light are all must-have pieces.

2. Vintage revival

Many of us are looking for ways we can do better for the planet, and interior designers are now bringing this mindset into how they design homes.

“Incorporating vintage furniture and decor into living rooms and the whole home is a priority on all my design projects,” says Heather Knight-Willcock, interior designer at Heather KW Styles and expert for ShopGoodwill.com.

She continues, “If you do not have any heritage pieces, then shopping secondhand not only adds a touch of history to a room but also promotes sustainability and reduces the environmental impact of fast furniture.”

This way, you'll end up with a piece no one else will have, and unique enough to bag you plenty of compliments. The resurgence of upcycling furniture and shopping at thrift stores is also a key TikTok interior trend for 2026.

3. Toned down maximalism

Bright and bold colors were everywhere last year, with the Barbiecore trend making pink cool again and maximalism making a big splash, too. While you can still bring these into your living room, design experts suggest toning it down a little to make your small space look more timeless.

“Statement lighting fixtures, vibrant accents, and eye-catching artwork will create focal points and draw attention away from limited space,” says Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of Halo Homebuyers.

Adding just one of these will bring visual interest and showcase your fabulous, playful personality without overwhelming the room.

4. Affordable luxury

Last year was all about bringing in expensive-looking touches, thanks to the surge of quiet luxury. This year, the trend is still huge, but it’s here in a more budget-friendly way.

Heather explains, “In 2026, the trend of affordable luxury is making waves in interior design.”

“From vintage chandeliers to intricately designed seats, the allure of affordable luxury lies in the thrill of finding treasures to add a sense of richness to your home,” Heather adds.

Keep an eye out for pieces with eye-catching details when bringing this trend into your small living room — no matter if you’re shopping at secondhand furniture stores or finding something new.

5. Purposeful dressing

Just like editing down maximalist colors, removing unnecessary furniture pieces is a key small living room trend for 2026.

“I’m seeing a bigger focus on creating functional spaces, from utilizing vertical space to choosing multifunctional furniture,” says Ricky Allen, interior designer and founder of Ever Wallpaper.

If you're picking out a new furniture piece, think about how many different ways you can use it and look at what it can offer you before taking the plunge.

For example, instead of grabbing a regular seat, choose an ottoman with storage to maximize space.

When bringing in any decor trends into your design, be mindful of the space you’re working with, as adding too much can overwhelm little homes.

Ricky adds, “It can be a challenge making small living rooms appear larger without compromising on comfort or style, but you can do it by using the right impactful designs.”

If you’re still looking for how to bring trends into this space, it's worth knowing the outdated living room trends to avoid, as these can make your space look dated.

Incorporating luxury small living room ideas into your space will no doubt entice you to rush home after a long day.

Done well, a luxury space is welcoming and cozy. Our expert designers have revealed eight ways to shift your small living room's current look to pure elegance without the need to overhaul everything.

Using a blend of clever layouts, the right tones, and textures will bring the right kind of drama to your small living room. For the most enviable looks, we scoured Instagram and called on our favorite interior designers for their expert insight.

Luxury small living room ideas

Our designer-led guide is packed with fab ideas that are easy to integrate into modern small living room ideas and more traditional settings alike. Rework your space to create a rich and uplifting finish, without making the space feel heavy.

1. Bring cohesion with color

A small space that is full of luxe should still be grounding. Neutral small living room color schemes need not be cold or bland. A lighter palette can be the perfect lift in this space.

"To achieve a luxurious ambiance in a small living room, a key strategy to focus on is a cohesive color scheme, particularly by painting the walls and woodwork in the same tone," says designer Jennifer Davis. 

Jennifer continues, "Opting for a monochromatic palette, such as subtle whites, creams, or soft grays, creates an elegant and seamless backdrop, making the room feel more expansive."

2. Layer rich hues of nature

Warm hue-lovers, do not dismay. A cohesive color scheme by no means dismisses rich, pigmented tones, especially where you are looking for a luxe finish. 

"Deep and rich hues like navy blue or charcoal gray can add opulence and warmth to the space," says Jennifer. Choose a smokey blue couch, with throw pillows that nod to it, and layer them up over a Persian-style rug. 

Right now, we have our eye on this Target Woven Diamond Persian rug in neutral. The key is to not go overboard, and when using texture, avoid big contrasts in color.

3. Complement the bones of the room

Highlighting the room's natural beauty, or giving it a little more detail will bring instant luxury vibes and add depth to a small living room space. "Emphasizing architectural details by painting trim and woodwork in the same color as the walls contributes to a unified and sophisticated appearance," says Jennifer. 

We love the contrast of ochre on the walls with the molding in the same color against the jungle green couch and bright orange throw pillow in the bright space above, created by @domandecors. 

The palette is bold but delicately interacts with the sole piece of artwork on the wall, bringing visual balance and design symphony. You can find plenty of ornate gold picture frames at Walmart and other stores online for far less than they might seem.

4. Include iconic and unique vibes

"The use of statement furniture pieces, such as an antique piece or unique print on upholstery, further enhances the overall luxurious feel," explains Jennifer. 

Great finds make it worth the trawl online or in second-hand stores. 

Whether you add a preloved coffee table, or the most iconically upholstered sectional as seen in this small, yet bougie living room space created by @domandecors, including at least one unique piece will lift your interior design scheme into the most luxe realms.

5. Let the ceiling make a statement

A key living room trend that is here to stay in 2024 is the focus on using your fifth wall — the ceiling.

"Incorporating living room ceiling design is also a key element in transforming a small living room into a luxurious space," Jennifer tells Real Homes. "Wallpaper on the ceiling or wood accents overhead can add a layer of sophistication and visual interest. 

This is still an option if you rent, just stick with good old peel-and-stick wallpaper.

Jennifer adds, "Opting for a subtle and elegant wallpaper pattern can draw the eyes upward, creating the illusion of height and expansiveness. Alternatively, wooden ceiling details, such as coffered panels or intricate molding, can bring warmth and a touch of traditional charm to the room.'

There is no denying utilizing the ceiling is a clever way to make a living room feel cozy and cocooned too.

6. Make your couch cool

"Your sofa is the star of the show in the living room," says Nicole Cullum, interior designer and founder of Color Caravan. 

"Make sure this piece is sturdy and up to date. An interesting shaped frame or a modern fabric like a boucle will elevate your sofa from man cave to mansion." 

Throws and pillows should also add to the luxury vibe. Let them be sumptuous, and gorgeous in a nonchalant kinda way. 

"Add a faux fur throw, or quality thread blanket tossed over the side for added drama," continues Nicole. 

For even more elegance, make sure wall paneling is part of the mix. A little millwork molding, such as that used by @tulipsforthetable in this scene is a subtle nod to luxury, especially with the chandelier-esque wall sconces and ornate frame. 

Not to mention, the glass coffee table brings all the reflective chic you could want in a small space. Shop a Prairie Land framed 12x12" framed canvas on Target for a similar vibe..

7. Don't do decor by numbers

Unfussy decor always exudes a little more sophistication and it is so important to prioritize quality over quantity when designing a small luxury living room or decorating an apartment. 

Nicole says, "Get more for your square footage by using less. A single large piece of artwork framed over the sofa has more visual impact than a cluttered gallery wall, especially in smaller spaces. 

"When you remove excess decor, the pieces that remain are more important, give more impact to your design, and reflect your personal interests and style."

8. Keep lighting sculpted

Who could argue that one of the modern-day functions of lighting is that it must be beyond aesthetically pleasing? A mix of contemporary pendants and vintage lamps like this ribbed small glass lamb base at Target, are perfect to layer together. 

"In 2024, a big design trend is lighting as artwork. Gone are the days of solely relying on overhead can [recessed] lights," Nicole adds. 

Look beyond vanilla small living room lighting to make your fixtures a talking point. "Layer your lighting with sculptural lamps, unusual light fixtures, and modern floor lamps for high, medium, and low-level lighting that will act as a real-life beauty filter in your space."

A little like creating quiet luxury vibes, for luxury small living rooms, think curated decor and furniture added with thoughtfulness.

For a true luxury finish, don't be afraid to let your small living room space glow with grand character too. 

Camila Mendes' bookshelf gets a gold medal for style and sophistication, but the luxe look does more than you might realize. 

The Riverdale star, who is no stranger to snapping selfies at home, recently shared a glimpse of the show-stopper in the background of an Instagram post. Naturally, we couldn't take our eyes off the gleaming piece and asked designers how to achieve a similar chic aesthetic in your home. 

If you're playing around with small living room ideas, we'll help you get a taste of this gold, glam, statement on a budget.

Get Camila Mendes' bookshelf look for less

What we particularly appreciate about Camila's shelving unit is that it does a little bit of everything: stores necessities, complements the room's aesthetic, and draws the  eye upwards, one of several small living room design rules the pros cannot do without. 

Playing with vertical space can be a game-changer, but making an item like this the focal point without  overwhelming the space takes a little expert know-how. There are a few key points to keep in mind so as not to throw off your living room feng shui. 

"The gold shelf is making a statement and is almost a work of art itself, so finding items that don't take away from that is key," says designer Melony Huber, co-founder of La Peony. "You want to make sure the accent pieces you are choosing complement the boldness of the gold shelf, instead of fighting it."

There are a few living room paint colors to avoid in a case like this, but also a few to pursue to really let that gold glimmer and steal the show. 

"I would pick colors for decor pieces that are ivory, browns, pinks, or deep greens," Melony adds. "These are always a safe pick and a great pairing  with gold."

What's more, you'll want to keep things toned down when working with a piece like this. You don't have to go to the extreme and pursue a minimalist style, but you do want to be mindful of where you're placing decor and neighboring artwork. 

"Keeping it simple and not crowding pieces on the shelf will highlight how fab it is while still styling the overall piece, so it becomes a beautiful eye-catcher while showing off some of your favorite decor items," says designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey.

What to shop

In this case, all that glitters is definitely gold, so why not try a similar look in your living room? We found similar styles from $90 that will give you Camila's aesthetic on a budget.

Looking for more ways to add some pizzazz to your gathering space? Designers sound off on small living room design trends that will be everywhere this year, so start taking note!

Small modern living room ideas are perfect for petite homes, bringing beautiful design to your space without cramming it full of furniture. Knowing where to start, especially if you're new to the modern aesthetic, can be tricky.

But a lack of square footage doesn't have to stand in the way of cool room design, especially with our panel of interior designers sharing their insight on all the colorways, layouts, and decor recommendations to help you nail this look.

Piecing it all together in your small living room will be a cinch with our experts capturing the essence of modern interiors — meaning your decor won't fall flat or come off as too "try-hard".

Modern small living room ideas we love

When thinking of modern living room ideas, we've scoped out the best experts, social media trendsetters, and pulled in buys from our in-house pro shoppers to help you replicate designer inspired elements in your space.

1. Opt for a light color palette

It is common design knowledge that today's neutral small living room ideas are much cozier than previous usage. Neutral doesn't have to mean bland, and a textured and multi-layered pallette will bring a modern, look light years ahead of its sterile predecessors. 

Interior designer, Amy Youngblood tells Real Homes how in modern small living room design, you want to focus on a lighter color palette to expand the space organically. 

She says, "I would say to go lighter with your main color palette to not diminish further the size of the space."

2. Choose bold furniture

With that said, deeper hues do have a part to play in a small modern living room, as Laura Williams, principal designer of ATX Interior Design, tells us.

"Using darker neutral colors, like a deep olive green or chocolate in your sofa choice could be a great option to anchor the space," Laura says. "Keeping all of the coinciding pieces light and airy would be a great way to complement the surroundings." 

See how this coffee table in @domandecors home works its lofty magic against the earthy-hued couch? A truly modern vibe. We found a cute iridescent oval coffee table on Amazon, and a rectangular orange acrylic coffee table with shelf from Amazon , both capable of bringing beautiful modernity to any space.

Overly bulky furniture is a fundamental small living room layout mistake especially in one going for a clean and modern aesthetic. “When spaces are smaller, using decor pieces like mirrors and more streamlined accent chairs can give the illusion of more space," adds Laura.

"Additionally, keeping bulky storage furniture to a minimum allows for better walkability and flow in the space,” she adds. Keep it simple in form, then consider more unique colors and finishes for design interest."

3. Add intrigue

Even a small modern living room in an open-plan space needs specific design attention. Aim to make your living area as unique and intriguing as possible. 

A great way to do this is define the space with an important piece of living room furniture that we cannot do without, for instance, the couch. Go big or go home. Then for all the rest, think cozy in every sense of the word, using texture variation to add intrigue without adding extra furniture.

Amy adds, "Maximize seating with the best sectional sofa you can afford," Says Amy. "A well-fitting sectional compacts the sitting area and unlike several free-standing lounge chairs, it doesn’t require as much space around it." 

Target has a pretty nice sectional selection, and with the 4pc Haven French seam modular sectional in velvet dark green tickling our fancy.

4. Curate but don't overcrowd

We love a trinket as much as the next person, but some just do not need to be on show all the time. It's an overload on the design senses and doesn't leave much room for flow in a small modern living room space. 

Style your coffee table with the seasons, and keep just a select few home accessories to streamline your space and keep it feeling modern and uncluttered.

"A modern-looking space is a well-curated, not overdone space," interior designer, Soledad Algaza adds. "Avoid too many pieces and focus on things that are useful, beautiful, and that have meaning to you." 

Even adding a simple item such as a distressed ceramic vase from Target will add more lofty appeal and interest.

5. Get the right kind of vintage

It might seem counterintuitive to include vintage items in a modern space, but done right, they'll add a brilliant and deliberate dash of style.

Overdo it, however, and you're headed for grandma territory. Not that this is always a bad thing. After all, our grandmas are likely to have nailed farmhouse interiors a lot earlier than we did.

To incorporate your love of vintage in a small modern living room, pick one item that meshes well with your modern furniture and make it the focal point of your space. You might opt for a gorgeous coffee table like influencer @highboyla has with her mid-century table. Learn how to fit a table into a small space if you're worried about squeezing it in.

"Stay away from granny-looking furniture," adds Soledad, "unless it's a vintage piece that blends well with the rest of your decor."

6. Make lighting a total vibe

Mood lighting is the vibe in a modern living room space. Especially where space is minimal, layering soft lighting instead of whacking on one central and overly bright overhead light will bring ambiance and design depth.

"Sculptural lighting can make a design statement," says Artem Kropovinsky, interior design expert and founder of Arsight. Dimension is essential so choose a combination of statement pieces and softer ambient lighting as above in this small living room lighting look.

"Choose task lights, table and floor lamps, and avoid overhead lighting unless you can dim it to give subtle light," shares Soledad.

7. Contrast bold colors

Even if you are leaning into a natural and earthy color scheme, this doesn't not mean color is out of bounds. If anything, color brings a stunning design opportunity and in small spaces, unexpected combinations can bring visual dimension, without taking up physical floor space.

"Modern-looking living rooms can still include a high contrast color palette, but are starting to include some more curves than in past years," says Laura. "I'm seeing rounded sofas combined with rich, interesting materials, like velvet and boucle."

We love these brighter-than-bright round velvet throw pillows from Urban Outfitters.

Artem also endorses a livelier colorway. "For a modern and artistic feel, use deep contrasting colors such as blues against whites," he says.

8. Include raw and natural materials

We have seen indoor plants bringing a touch of nature in small modern living room spaces for longer than we can remember, but including earthy and raw materials are becoming an increasingly cool look.

These absolutely belong in minimalist small living room spaces, too. "Include natural accents, such as wood or stone for a balanced and appealing finish," says Artem. 

We love marble coffee tables as well as a wooden, more mid-century modern look. This one is easy to introduce in big and smaller doses too, depending on your small room layout and selection of decor.

What is the best color for a small modern living room?

Relaxed, curated, and cool is the vibe here, and choosing a style that you can build on is the perfect way to nail a modern look in a small living room. Simple furniture and more interesting additions, such as accent chairs for small spaces, that are easy to swap in and out means that you won't overwhelm the space, but instead, will curate an iconic and inviting finish.

If you want to bring positive vibes into your space, it's worth knowing the small living room Feng Shui mistakes to avoid. Happily, there are simple and subtle changes you can make to help the room instantly flow better.

We've chatted with interior designers to find out what you should be saying no to, and what your go-tos should be. Luckily, incorrect large or awkward furniture placement, and dark lighting can all be fixed easily.

Keeping these in mind when looking for small living room ideas will help you create a space you can fully relax in.

Small living room Feng Shui mistakes

Get your small living room Feng Shui energy in order by saying bye-bye to these mistakes, and hello to the solutions.

On points where our experts have suggested buys, we've also found a few of these to help you get fixing that Feng Shui ASAP.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Using too much furniture

It can be easy to get carried away when choosing furniture for a small living room. For the best Feng Shui possible, it’s best not to throw everything into it.

“This is one of the most common small living room Feng Shui mistakes I see,” says Keely Smith, lead interior designer at JD Elite Interiors.

She continues, “It's best to edit down to only the essential furniture pieces needed — a couch, coffee table, and side table may be sufficient rather than overfilling the room.”

If you have any pieces you don’t need, you can donate them to secondhand furniture stores, so someone else can get better use out of them.

2. Not making use of natural light

When you’re working with a small living room, it’s best to be as mindful of the light flow throughout, as you can darken the room very quickly with the wrong placement.

“Make use of natural light as much as possible and also ensure there is sufficient circulation of air,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

To avoid this, he suggests moving heavy furniture away from the windows. Move any obstructive pieces, and hey presto — you'll have lightened up your small living room instantly.

3. Choosing dark colors

Blacks and dark jewel tones are colors to avoid in small living rooms, as they can absorb light and make the space feel even tinier. We love making our small living rooms cozy, but when the space is already little, darker shades are no-gos.

“Dark colors can make a room feel claustrophobic, so I always recommend using light, natural colors for a feeling of spaciousness,” Artem explains. 

For those who have dark walls they can’t paint over (we feel your pain, renters), there is a clever piece of decor you can use to minimize the effect of this.

He adds, “Employ mirrors with discretion to make the space visually larger, but do place them carefully so as not to reflect negative energy.” We recommend placing them against a wall facing a window to give it as much sparkle and shine power as possible.

4. Incorrectly arranging furniture

As well as making sure you haven’t got too much furniture, our experts also recommend being mindful of the placement of it. Keely explains, “Leaving some breathing room between furniture and walls allows for better flow of chi (energy).”

She adds, “I also recommend arranging pieces so there is clear walking space and easy lines of sight across the room.”

Doing this promotes a calming, open atmosphere you can fully relax in. After all, nobody wants to be weaving between furniture every day — this is way too much effort, in our opinion.

5. Forgetting the elements

You may have focused on glitzy treasures and trinkets in your small living room, but for Feng Shui, you need to bring in the natural world, too.

Keely says, “Feng Shui considers the five elements of wood, fire, earth, metal, and water, and you can bring some of these in through decor choices to balance the energy. I love using indoor plants (earth) and decorative water features (water)."

The latter are an especially brilliant way to bring Zen in, as the trickling effect will add soothing sounds to your space.

For the fire element, you could light a few candles in the evening. Head down to a store like H&M or Anthropologie, have a sniff of the scents, and see which ones resonate with you most. The team at Real Homes has rounded up the best candles, tried and tested by us.

These mistakes are all quick to fix, so it won't be long before Feng Shui flow in your living room is tweaked to perfection.

If you're worried about the energy in other areas of the home, remedy small entryway Feng Shui mistakes next, making the welcome guests enjoy that much more special.

If you're leaning towards neutral small living room ideas but want to avoid being vanilla (that's 'uninteresting', for the uninitiated) our experts have nine gorgeous ways to deliver this aesthetic with intrigue.

Gone are the days when neutral shades were synonymous with overdone minimalism and looked upon as bland, because there is lots of fun and joy to be had with this soft and gentle color palette. 

Nowadays, nicely-done neutral small living room ideas are some of the most lust-worthy. Far from boring and cold, a soft, textured palette of neutrals leaves all the more room to get creative with cozy styling. Get neutralizing confidently, with our interior design professionals at the wheel.

Intriguing neutral small living room ideas

If you think cream living room ideas make a lounge look plain, you may have been going about decorating with them the wrong way.

"Using neutrals with white walls or trim, in a small living room helps keep a space feeling open and not overwhelming visually," says Keira Schultz, interior designer and owner of KSDesigns LLC. So no, a nice neutral small living room is not out of reach, and we have some looks that are 100 percent gorgeous, and achievable.

1. Make them shades of toast

Who said neutral colors were all white and ivory? Lean into toasty and caramel shades (we love this faux leather mid-century accent chair with oak frame from Amazon) for a cozy hit and your space will be far from cold or boring. 

For dimension, choose darker neutrals for furniture pieces, like your coffee table, and keep walls and trim white to enlarge the space.

2. Cut through neutrals with thoughtful layers of color

One of the fears you may have of going all in with neutrals in a small living room space, is that it might feel cold and a little, well, blah. 

Overcome this by gently incorporating brighter or deeper hues for an expansive, interesting finish that will enhance your beautiful, neutral palette. 

"In order to keep the space interesting and warm, use layers and textiles to add pops of color," recommends Keira. The bright throw pillow as we can see in the space Kiera designed above, and finer detail on the corner lifts the neutral shades (these textured Tosleo boho set of two throw pillow covers from Amazon are in the right ballpark).

If you are working with a white sofa instead, consider deeper caramel shades like the below pic from our roundup of affordable Target throw pillows.

3. Include nods to nature

From the wooden console, to the floral wallpaper, Hannah, creator of @thristle.harvest has tapped into nature on every level in this cute den of a living room. 

This small space has many neutral layers, soft details from all the patterns and natural materials working together to bring lots of gorgeous visual design interest, making this neutral small living room so very far from bland. We love a good rug at Real Homes, and reckon this geometric Palazzo Latte Re-Jute Ruggable number is a cracking match.

4. Put art and your personality on display

There is always room for personality in a space, no matter how small a neutral living room may be. Let artwork and an array of unique home accessories bring your personality to the table. Make sure your small space is uncluttered so it attracts the right kind of attention.

"In addition, using unique and interesting pieces like ceramics (we love the Joshua Ceramic Vase from Pottery Barn) to add character to the space is a must," explains Keira. "It is a good idea to keep a small living room simple and thoughtfully curated in order to keep the space from feeling cluttered."

5. Let pattern define a gentle color palette

Neutrals make the perfect canvas for motifs, even in a small living room. "Textures and patterns in a neutral space can have a big impact," says Keira. 

Choose geometric and bigger prints to complement a small space and make it flow. Area rugs, blankets, and our fave Urban Outfitters throw pillows all make cute buys for a burst of intricate design to define a soft color scheme. 

6. Punctuate a blank canvas with gray

If you're wondering whether gray paint is going out of style, take pause. The versatile shade has seen a resurgence in recent times, and for the neutral small living room of dreams, it's the perfect accent shade.

Jennifer Davis, Founder and principal designer of Davis Interiors tells Real Homes it is key to play around with different hues to lift the room as a whole, as we can see so well mastered above. 

She says, "Designing a welcoming and visually appealing small living room with a neutral color palette involves several key considerations. It's essential to layer neutrals using various shades and textures to add depth and prevent the space from feeling flat."

7. Vary crafted and natural details

From the shapely wooden stool that punctuates this tiny neutral living room (of Carly's 450 square foot apartment might we add), to the ceramic pot holding the gorgeous indoor tree, the (gorgeous) devil is in the detail. 

Not only will the addition of taller houseplants draw the eye up and add the illusion of height to a small neutral living room, but their natural curves, texture, and vibrant green color will offset a light room very well, softening it in all the right ways.

"We love incorporating natural elements like plants, wooden furniture, or stone (we also love concrete accents like the Cosiest Concrete Hexagonal side table from Amazon). They add warmth and give a connection to nature," adds Jennifer.

8. Lift the room with soothing lighting

Thoughtful small living room lighting ideas are essential when decorating with neutrals, whether you are blessed with natural light or not. By layering table lamps (we love this table lamp set with nightlights from Wayfair) with sconces (this handmade moth sconce from Anthropologie is gorgeous) and reflective elements like mirrors, the ambiance will be beyond. 

"Good lighting is key, that perfect mix of ambient, task, and accent lights," explains Jennifer. It's what really makes a space feel cozy and inviting."

9. Offset with reflective accents

Reflective elements can give even the tiniest room more visual scope, and by combining a mirror to bounce light around, with an ornate gold or silver frame, it can be the cherry on top of a small neutral decor scheme. We even rounded up our favorite gold mirrors if you love this look.

To avoid taking neutrals into the undesirable dull design zone, you need to cut through shades of pale with some color.

"Excessive use of the same shade can come across as institutional or cold," warns Jennifer. "Introducing subtle pops of color through accent pillows, warm metals, throws, or decor items can prevent the room from appearing overly sterile." If you have a fireplace, tile ideas can go down a treat.

Particularly if you are not ramping up on texture, including touches of a brighter or pretty pastels can go a long way in elevating a small neutral living room space.

To avoid taking neutrals into the undesirable dull design zone, you need to cut through shades of pale with some color. 

"Excessive use of the same hues can come across as institutional or cold," warns Jennifer. "Introducing subtle pops of color through accent pillows, warm metals, throws, or decor items can prevent the room from appearing overly sterile."

Particularly if you are not ramping up on texture, including touches of a brighter or pastel hue can go a long way in elevating a small neutral living room space. We like a nod to Pantone's Color Of The Year Peach Fuzz, with this Mina Victory textured peachy blush throw pillow from Ashley's furniture.

Warm up neutrals and add visual depth with texture, a slight color hit, and unique details that are both thoughtful and unexpected to take your small space to the next level.

If you're feeling on a roll with inspiration, we love America Ferrera's accent chair and we're rolling into the weekend with easy upgrades for small living rooms knocking at our door.

We're sorry to have to tell you, but there are some wall colors to avoid in your in small living rooms. We're all for embracing your personal style, but the reality is some shades won't serve tiny spaces as well as we'd like. 

Our design experts are on hand to share the paint hues to steer clear of — if you're into bold, dark, tones, brace yourself — whilst also revealing the best color solutions for compact living rooms. 

Don't worry though, if richer hues are very much your vibe, our color pros share how to work them in without overwhelming the space with some gorgeous accent buys. Knowing the best paint colors for small living rooms will usher in greater balance.

Wall colors to avoid in small living rooms — and what to use instead

As well as delving into great small living room ideas, it's also well worth knowing the ones to avoid when revamping your space.

For the solutions, we've found cute paint samples so you can right those wrongs, along with accent pieces to satisfy all.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Avoid navy, try seafoam

Navy blue may give you the coastal grandmother look, but splashing it all over your small living room doesn't work well.

“I never recommend using deep or dark shades such as navy blue, as this makes a room feel heavy and closed off, especially when used on all four walls,” says Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of HALO Homebuyers.

He continues, “It also absorbs light, making the space feel even smaller and darker.”

Instead, Jonathan suggests opting for lighter blues. This will make your living room look less like choppy, stormy, water, and more dreamy blue sky. 

If navy blue makes your heart happy but you don't want to make your small living room feel claustrophobic, a small pop of navy soft furnishings instead might just hit the spot.

2. Ditch forest green, try sage

Natural colors are always a gorgeous way to go when decorating your small living room — but don’t go too far down the forestcore trend when your square footage is limited.

“While forest green may look very stylish, it tends to visually shrink the room,” Keely Smith, lead interior designer at JD Elite Interiors.

She continues, “Dark shades absorb light instead of reflecting it, so they can give the illusion of smaller walls and ceiling height.”

For those who feel green with envy when eyeing forest-style living rooms, you can still bring the green spectrum into play with a brightening sage green. It's far lighter and still super lush, leaving you a big of wiggle room to add accent throws, pillows, and candles in the darker shades.

3. Bye-bye black, hello gray

Bathing your room in the dark academia, Halloweeny life at all times of year is a cozy vibe for sure, but use black sparingly, and avoid painting the walls with it. 

“This color absorbs light, which can make a space appear small and confined — something you don’t want in a room already without a lot of square footage to work with,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

For a refined small living room, go for a softer shade and work to layer darker decor around.

Keely adds, “For small living rooms, I usually recommend lighter, neutral shades, as these won't overpower the space. A paint color I've had success with is Moonshine by Benjamin Moore, which is a crisp light gray I use to make white trim stand out.”

Shades like this will allow light to bounce around and make walls feel farther away.

4. Instead of yellow, try creams

Unlike the Coldplay song, it does not need to be yellow when it comes to lightening up your small living room.

“This is because yellow is too bold for a small space, making it look even smaller, chaotic, and overwhelming,” says Jonathan. It also reflects a lot of light, which feels harsh on the eyes and creates glare.”

You can still bring sunshine into your space — just use softer shades of yellow such as creamy or buttery tones, as these will make your small space more inviting.

5. No to red, yes to coral

We know maximalism has been a huge small space interior design trend and we love bold colors. But seeing completely red doesn’t create a chilled-out atmosphere.

“Red overpowers small spaces, making them feel cramped and suffocating,” Jonathan says. It also stimulates energy and creates a distracting factor in a room where you want to relax.”

Jonathan recommends using warmer shades of pink or coral for a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Whether you love Barbiecore or boldness, this is a brilliant solution.

FAQ

If you’ve read this, glanced at your walls, and are happy with how they look, don’t feel like you have to ditch your vibe. You know your home best, and if a color listed here actually looks stylish in your place, keep it.

For those who are renting and can’t change their walls, there are other clever ways you can make your small living room look bigger besides using color.

The perfect snuggle zone starts with great seating ideas for small living rooms. After all, chairs and couches are where you spend the most time in this space, so they've got to be cozy, comfortable, and cute.

We've spoken with interior designers who are pros at making spaces inviting for their clients, to hear their top seating ideas for small living rooms. From choosing luxe fabrics to picking pretty poufs, they've given us plenty of inspo.

If you're after small living room ideas, picking the right seating really can transform your space both aesthetically and functionally.

Seating ideas for small living rooms

When choosing furniture you need for a small living room, chairs are worth remembering. Luckily, there are plenty of different kinds, including gorgeous accent chairs for small spaces, and endless ways to style them.

If you're shopping seats from scratch, we've also found some beautiful buys to match our expert tips.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Bring in pieces with a dual purpose

When picking furniture for any small space, making sure it brings as much bang for your buck as possible is a money-savvy idea.

“In a small living room, I recommend bringing in pieces to serve dual purposes, especially when it comes to seating,” says Kathy Kuo, interior design expert and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home. 

She continues, “Try storage ottomans and poufs you can use as footstools or additional seating.”

These are especially useful, as you can keep them out the way most of them, and then move them to the forefront if you have guests around. Totally genius.

2. Choose the right fabrics

Imagine sinking onto a soft seat at the end of the day, tea in hand, ready to chill. If this sounds dreamy to you, make sure to look at the fabric when mulling over seating ideas for small living rooms.

“I always add in chairs with rolled arms in a luxurious fabric, as these can give all the coziness of a huge armchair and are perfect for small living rooms,” says Valerie Helgeson, interior designer at Design Directions.

Even if you can’t invest in a high-end fabric, choosing seating and throw blankets made from cotton, velvet, and faux fur will still add tactile appeal. 

3. Be mindful of layout

As well as choosing where you put your seating, the placement of this furniture item in your small living room is pivotal for creating a relaxing vibe all can enjoy.

“One of my top tips is considering a layout cleverly arranged to promote conversation,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

He continues, “I like to design seating arrangements circularly to make the spaces inviting and warm.”

Play with the placement of chairs and couches, and if you’re finding you’re having to crane your neck or shout across the room, it might be time for a rejig. 

A good tip when deciding how to arrange furniture in a small living room will save you the backbreaking work of physically moving heavy furniture around, only to find it won't fit in a new configuration.

Make a scaled-down paper version of your furniture using old newspaper or magazine pages, and jiggle the miniatures around on a to-scale paper floor plan, before committing to heaving things about in real life.

4. Create the illusion of space

We love finding clever tricks to make small rooms look bigger here at Real Homes, which is why we’re loving this tip.

“Seating like the sofa in this room I styled, with clean lines and narrow arms, creates the illusion of a bigger piece of furniture and leaves more space for the seat cushion,” says Laura Stein, interior designer at Laura Stein Interiors.

This means people won’t feel squished — we’re talking about being cozy, not cramped. Laura continues, “Armless chairs are also a great choice, as they look elegant and take up less space, while still being comfortable.” 

Opting for subtly stylish shapes is a key part of dressing homes with the popular quiet luxury trend in mind, too.

5. Give existing seats new life

You don’t even need to buy anything new when changing up the seating in your small living room — if you’re willing to use a bit of elbow grease.

“In this living room, we painted and upholstered these vintage dining chairs and flanked an antique drop-leaf table for added seating when needed,” explains Gaia Guidi Filippi, principal designer at Gaia G Interiors.

By upcycling furniture like this, you’ll end up with a unique seat no one else will have. When your guests ask where it’s from, you can smugly reply you’ve DIYd it.

You could always shop at secondhand furniture stores like Goodwill, or look through thrift stores if you don’t have a piece but want to get the vintage decor look on budget. It's great for the environment, too.

6. Place down floor cushions

For speedy small living room seating solutions, Kathy says, “Floor pillows can add coziness and be easily moved around.” 

She adds that they’re a fun way to add extra seating to a small space, creating a relaxed feel for guests to sit around and chat. Talk about a smart boho small living room idea.

If you’re in a pinch, you can even just use throw pillows you already have elsewhere in the home. 

By mixing up a range of large and small seats, you’ll be able to create plenty of space for guests.

“Tiny living rooms really can still accommodate lots of seating for lounging and entertaining,” Valerie finishes by saying.

Now you’ve got your seating covered, you can also find out other ways to make a small living room cozy.

If you're hankering after harmony, small living room Feng Shui tips will bring a flow of positive energy into your space.

We've spoken with interior designers and a certified Feng Shui practitioner to find out exactly how to usher in the ultimate zen in your small living room. From adding touches of greenery to positioning seating properly, there's endless potential. 

When searching for small living room ideas, harnessing the ancient, yet effective art of Feng Shui will make designing your space a total breeze. It's the room guests hang out in most, too, so it's an important one to bring great energy into.

Small living room Feng Shui

Whether you're rearranging your small living room layout or just want to bring good vibes into your home, these expert-approved Feng Shui tips are worth having in mind.

As well as scoping out advice from the pros, we've also found beautiful buys to help you get your zen on.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Pick appropriately-sized furniture

Feng Shui design is all about flow — and this starts with picking pieces of furniture to enable better use of the space.

“Choose multipurpose or smaller furniture items such as storage ottomans and footstools,” says Daniella Menachemson, interior designer and CEO of StyleNations.

She continues, “These will fulfill several uses without taking up too much room.”

If you have a furniture piece you know is overwhelming the space, you could donate it to a secondhand store such as Goodwill.

It may be beautiful, but trust us — replacing this with something more suitable will be oodles better for your small living room Feng Shui.

2. Balance Ying and Yang energies

In order to create harmony in your small living room with Feng Shui, it’s important to complement different energies with one another.

“To create a balance between comfort and stimulation, use both angular, harsh edges, which will be the Yang, and soft, rounded curves which will be the Ying,” says Daniella.

You could do this by pairing a couch with rounded edges and rectangular coffee table together, or even having a small bookshelf and a rounded accent chair to create a cozy reading nook.

3. Position seating mindfully

Focus on function and the things you’ll be using the room for most, and design accordingly. You’re the one using the space, so it has to work for you best.

“For example, if you’ll mostly be watching TV and hosting small groups of friends, think about what seating and layout makes the most sense,” says Dr. Hannah Yang, certified Feng Shui practitioner and founder of Balanced Awakening.

She continues, “You might want a couch you can sprawl out on to watch a movie, and also be comfortable for conversations with your friends."

For extra comfort, “Position the central sofa facing towards the entrance for added security,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

4. Bring in plants

Bringing life and energy into your space is a key part of small living room Feng Shui — this is where indoor plants come in.

Daniella explains, “Greenery brings life and freshness into the room, promoting harmony and positivity according to feng shui principles.” You could place these on coffee tables or even drape them around the room.

“Tall plants and ones you can hang in some way from the wall are also great,” says Hannah.

If you’re shopping for new ones, our experts recommend looking for air-purifying plants. “Use oxygen-cleansing plants to give life energy into the room,” Artem says.

Our favorites are pothos plants, as they're easy to maintain and grow quickly, too.

5. Regularly declutter

In smaller spaces, what you choose to have around the space really matters. This is why we recommend decluttering your home.

Hannah says, “Make sure everything in your small living room either serves a purpose or brings you joy.” She also recommends regular clutter clearing — perhaps even daily — so nothing unnecessary accumulates in the space. 

“The real benefit of smaller spaces is they can be easier to keep tidy and you have to thoughtfully consider every new item you bring into the space,” Hannah adds. By removing any debris, you’ll have a clean space you can properly breathe in and relax.

A small living room can be the perfect place to spend time after a long day at work or recoup your creativity on the weekends. 

Hannah finishes by saying, “As long as you keep in mind how you’d best like the space to function — and what about it will bring you the most joy — you can’t go wrong.”

If you want to good vibes flowing in other rooms, you can also use Feng Shui in your small entryway.

You'll want to take a page from Reese Witherspoon's book nook style. After all, what's better than a comfy sanctuary where you can tackle your TBR (to-be-read) pile?

Every month, the actor, director, and fashion ambassador takes to Instagram to share Reese's Book Club selection. Typically, she provides her followers with a small description of the book from her living room couch, but in January 2024, we caught her in a pink chair in a cozy corner chatting about her new book crush. That's when we did a double take.

If you, too, need a few small living room ideas and love getting lost in a good story, why not turn to Reese for some pointers? We spoke with an interior designer to help get you started with her reading nook look.

While introducing First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston, which is available on Amazon, Reese sits back on a blush-hued accent chair and gushes over the unforgettable thriller. Given the nature of the read, most of us will probably be on the edge of our seats, but that doesn't mean we don't want a comfy plush place to make ourselves comfortable for future book club selections. 

When it comes to a Styling a nook, you need to have a few basics covered. “A good reading spot is all about texture and comfort," says interior designer Nicole Cullum. "Layer your nook with soft blankets, cushy pillows, and plenty of light to read by."

In the background of Reese’s designated reading corner, we caught sight of an exposed brick fireplace and a large indoor plant, a perfect complement to the ambiance. But you'll also want to add a few practical items in when setting up shop. 

"Grab your favorite plush chair, and place it in an empty spot, preferably by a window so you get some pretty, natural light," Nicole says. "Add a small side table next to your chair to hold your cup of tea, and tuck a floor lamp slightly behind the arm of your chair to provide light and ambiance while you read."

Though we highly recommend finding a spot near your living room bookshelf, it's not mandatory. As long as you're comfortable and have good light, a little traveling to your stack of novels is totally A-OK. And if you're curious, we asked the pros where to buy a bookcase. 

Shop Reese Witherspoon's nook look

Giving Reese's look a go? We can't blame you. These selections will definitely help channel the same reading nook vibes as the Legally Blonde star.

If showing off your literary love brings you joy, we spoke to designers about how to style coffee table books like Ashley Tisdale, and the results are swoon-worthy.

Delving into small living room design rules will throw open the doors to cohesive aesthetics and make your lounge as swoon-worthy as possible. With there being so many things to remember when decorating, an expert list of rules is just the ticket.

We've spoken with design experts to find out how they raise the bar, from arranging their furniture around a gorgeous focal point, or playing clever tricks with lighting, our guide will zhuzh up your living space like a pro. 

When considering small living room ideas, these are the six rules you don’t want to skimp out on..

Small living room design rules

Keep these small living room design rules at the forefront of your mind now, and you'll be thanking us later from your lush lounge — promise.

As well as packaging up our tip-top advice in this six part guide you can blast through on a lunch break, we’ve also rounded up gorgeous shopping picks, to help you get the living room look that sets your heart a-flutter.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Use lighting strategically

Brightening up your space with small living room lighting ideas is one of our designer’s favorite ways to glow up this room.

“One of my top small living room design rules is visually enlarging a small area through strategic use of lighting,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

By combining natural light with artificial sources such as floor lamps, you can make a small room appear bigger than it is. Place these in various corners of the room to create dimension throughout.

2. Create a focal point

This rule goes for all living rooms, but it’s especially important for smaller living spaces with limited space to work with. You’re not alone — we can relate.

“Having one main focal point in a small living room can help draw the eye and make the space feel more cohesive,” says Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture. 

He says this could be with a bold artwork piece, a vibrant accent wall, or even a statement piece of furniture. Raf adds, “Just be sure to not overwhelm the room with too many focal points.”

For those thinking they might have gone OTT on big and bright pieces, take a step back, assess each piece, and ask yourself Marie Kondo-style if you really need it.

3. Choose a cohesive color palette

It can be easy to want to go wild with your colors. Sometimes, this can work in a maximalist design form, but we recommend going for simple colors for a clean finish.

“A cohesive color palette, especially with lighter shades, can make a room feel bigger and more balanced,” says Artem.

You could use colors like white, beige, and brown together to create a neutral look, or even go for pastels for a touch more vibrancy. These are all small space color trends  worth tapping into for inspiration.

4. Utilize mirrors effectively

One small living room design rule our experts sweat by is using mirrors in your setup, no matter the size of your space, as they have a magic ability to instantly improve yours.

“Mirrors reflect light, making a small living room feel lighter and brighter,” explains Ricky Allen, interior designer and director at Ever Wallpaper. 

Also, when placed strategically, Ricky says they can create the illusion of depth and add visual interest to a small living room. He explains, “In your living room, try placing a large mirror across from a window to reflect natural light and give the illusion of an additional window.”

You can also use mirrored furniture pieces to achieve a similar effect if you’re going for a modern small living room vibe.

5. Bring in vertical lines

We love any optical illusions we can use to make our little spaces look larger than they are, which is why we’re obsessed with this small living room design rule.

Raf explains, “You can use vertical lines in your design elements, such as tall bookshelves or vertically striped wallpaper.”

This draws the eye upwards, creating the appearance of height and making the room feel more spacious. Achieve with bookshelves, the taller they are, the more room for books, which is always a big win for us. It can’t be just the Real Homes team with a lifelong dream of a Belle-style library? Maybe one day…

6. Be true to the room's size

We can’t count the number of times we’ve fallen in love with a piece and had to make the heartbreaking but right decision to put it back, knowing it wouldn’t fit properly.

“Scale down your small living room furniture pieces to match your room’s size,” explains Artem. “Select furniture you can fit in the room, but doesn’t sacrifice style and comfort.”

If you’re not sure if a piece will fit into your home, take the time to measure up your space and check the store’s listed dimensions for the item you’re after. 

For those who have checked their drawers and can’t find theirs, we think an Amazon Basics measuring tape, which comes in both pink and turquoise, will do the job nicely and is really cute to boot.

While it's a smart idea to have these small living room design rules at the top of your list when styling your place, your own style preferences are what will make your house feel like your home.

For those of you who do love an expert steer, it's also worth knowing what color small living room furniture should be.