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10 Ways to Elevate Your Living Room

Whilst kitchens and bathrooms are frequently celebrated for being both stylish and practical, living rooms are often the most challenging rooms to decorate and at Paint the Town Green, we think that when executed successfully, living rooms that blend decor and comfort deserve endless praise.

That's why we've put together ten practical tips to help you transform your living room into a warm and inviting space that perfectly reflects your unique personality and style. So, sit back, relax and let us guide you on how to elevate your living room to new levels of sophistication and comfort.

Hide your television

Whilst there might be nothing better than settling down in front of the TV after a long day, a large, oppressive screen can also hinder your design efforts.

A great way to elevate your living room is to hide your television when it's not in use. There are many ways to do this, from hiding it in a cabinet or purchasing a Samsung Frame TV.

If you opt for a cabinet or console table, choose one that complements your living room's décor. You can also use this piece of furniture to store your media devices and accessories, keeping your living room clutter-free.

In this showstopping Chelsea apartment, Pringle and Pringle installed a bespoke cabinet with an internal lift mechanism to hide the television when not in use.

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Create a focal point

A focal point is a design element that draws the eye and creates a visual anchor for your living room. It can be anything from a statement piece of furniture to a piece of artwork or a unique lighting fixture.

To create a focal point, choose one or two pieces that stand out and make them the centre of attention. For example, you could choose a bold-coloured sofa or a statement chandelier to add drama to your living room. Or, you could create a gallery wall of artwork that showcases your personal style and interests.

Whatever you choose, make sure it complements your living room's décor and adds personality and character to the space.

Layer your lighting

Lighting is an essential aspect of any living room, but it's often overlooked. To elevate your living room, consider layering your lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Layered lighting involves using different types of light sources, such as ceiling fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps, to create a balance of ambient, task, and accent lighting.

Ambient lighting is the primary source of light in your living room, and it sets the overall mood and atmosphere. Task lighting is used for specific activities like reading or working on a puzzle, while accent lighting highlights artwork or decorative elements in your living room.

By layering your lighting, you can create a cosy and inviting space that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests.

Install a fire fender

A fire fender is a protective (and often decorative) barrier that will keep ashes away from the rest of your living room.

Often upholstered in fire-and-heat-resistant material, they can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your living room.

There are many types of fire fenders to choose from, from traditional brass or iron to contemporary designs in stainless steel or chrome. You can also customize your fire fender with decorative elements like scrollwork or twisted metal.

A fire fender is an excellent addition to any living room, whether you have a wood-burning fireplace or a gas-powered one. It not only looks great but also provides a functional barrier that keeps your family and home safe.

Play with reflections

Mirrors are a great way to make your living room feel larger and brighter. They reflect light and create the illusion of space, making your living room feel more open and inviting.

There are many ways to incorporate mirrors into your living room design. You can choose a statement mirror to hang above your fireplace or console table, or you can create a gallery wall of smaller mirrors to add visual interest.

Just be mindful of the placement of your mirrors. Make sure they reflect something beautiful, like a piece of artwork or a window with a view, rather than a cluttered corner or a messy room.

Go Green

Plants and greenery add life and vibrancy to your living room while also improving air quality. They're a great way to add colour and texture to your space, and they're relatively low maintenance.

There are many types of plants that thrive indoors, from succulents to ferns to fiddle-leaf figs. Choose plants that complement your living room's décor and lighting conditions.

You can also incorporate greenery with a living wall or a hanging plant arrangement. These vertical displays not only add visual interest but also save space in your living room.

Make it personal

Your living room should reflect your personality and style, so don't be afraid to incorporate personal touches into your design. This could be anything from family photos to souvenirs from your travels to a collection of books or artwork.

Personal touches not only make your living room feel more homey and inviting but also serve as great conversation starters when you're entertaining guests.

Just make sure not to go overboard with your personal touches. Too many items can make your living room feel cluttered and disorganized.

Invest in quality furniture

Finally, investing in quality furniture is essential to elevating your living room. Quality furniture not only looks great but also lasts longer and is more comfortable than cheaply made pieces.

When choosing furniture for your living room, consider both style and comfort. Choose pieces that complement your living room's décor and are comfortable to sit on for extended periods.

Remember, you don't have to buy all new furniture at once. Start with one or two key pieces, like a sofa or armchair, and build your living room design around them.

Elevating your living room doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By incorporating a few of these tips and ideas, you can create a cosy and inviting space that reflects your personality and style. From hiding your television to incorporating personal touches to investing in quality furniture, there are many ways to add another level of sophistication to your space.

Find more living room inspiration here