Ripe for literal lounging and all types of conversing in, is a living room even a living room if it isn't comfortable and inviting? After all, whiling away the time à la Daisy Buchanan will always be in fashion, and no one can pretend that a design-forward but comfortable living room isn't part and parcel of making a home more welcoming too.
Although the couch (and multiple throw pillows) is arguably the center of focus in this space, there is much more to it than meets the discerning cocktail-sipper's eye. I asked different designers how they would make a living room sublimely comfortable, and here are the winning looks:
1. A 'disciplined palette' of textural detail
Muted neutrals go a long way in a living room and Monique Breaux of POSH Exclusive Interiors based in Lafayette, Louisiana has mastered quiet luxury in this living room. Drawing inspiration from the external environment, it is the peak of comfortable living. 'The mighty Mississippi River is the vista framed perfectly when peering out of Four Seasons New Orleans Private Residences,' shares Monique. 'In an effort to honor these spectacular views, it was important that the living room be curated with unobstructed site lines and a disciplined palette to embrace the surroundings.'
The finish is dreamy, poetic, and unique. 'Soft silhouettes with gentle shapes played off the river bank curve and elevated the design. The footprint of the furniture was equally important: bespoke chairs that swivel and a sofa of proper scale and superior comfort reinforce the design narrative.'
For the final flourishes in this space, Monique added details such as a handmade wool and silk area living room rug (to frame the room) and more textural interest that belongs even in a minimalist's space. 'When dealing with luxury aesthetics, textures and shapes become a primary focus and are a main contributor to the essence of the project.'
2. Design stories through texture, angles, and smoky hues
Over to a more post-modern era, this comfortable living room is accented with interesting forms, colors, and patterns of the 70s. We could happily get lost here, especially if it means sipping coffee around that perfectly styled coffee table.
'So many things contribute to making a comfortable living room — cozy throws, soft pillows, the right lighting, and a few decorative accents that reflect your own personal style,' says Christine Carney, Director of Design at Blackberry Farm Design who designed the space. Layered with tobacco hues, musty greens, plaid patterns, and even a touch of tortoiseshell, this living room color scheme has a rustic and earthy feel that is still effortlessly contemporary. Naturally, nothing is by chance: 'Additionally, it's important to choose colors and textures that help to create a harmonious and calming atmosphere,' adds Christine.
3. A soft and 'approachable' layout
I asked for some wisdom from the founders of the interior design firm Ward + Gray, Christie Ward and Staver Gray. 'We feel a living room should feel approachable and humble,' shares Christie who puts a focus on the cushioning detail, be that for a living room sectional or other type of seat. 'For upholstered pieces, such as the sofa, we like to use a soft fill and feather inserts so the cushions sink down while you sit in it.'
Here the design duo strikes a balance between simple forms and rich colors. 'We love shapes that don't feel overly complicated in the living room, this should really feel like the space in the house where you want to be all day long,' continues Christie.
4. Lofty (and adjustable) detail
It is all about harnessing the power of natural lighting in a home that wants vibrancy and coziness, which is what Christie and Staver have done successfully in this living room. Their thoughtful design decisions add ambiance and intrigue.
'Lighting also plays a role in making a space feel comfortable and needs to be adjustable throughout the day,' says Staver.
'We try to get as much natural light as possible into a space during the day - this could mean a lighter touch with the living room window treatments or adding a large mirror to bounce light around the room.' Living room mirrors can suit all interior styles and help make the space appear larger too. By night, you want to count on more low-level and adjustable lighting options like table lamps, and sconces. 'With everything on a dimmer!' adds Staver.
5. Juxtaposition with unexpected elements
You would think that a comfortable living room should only feature curves and bouncy forms. This is important, but so it leveling the entire scheme with striking definition. Lauren Lerner, principal designer & CEO of Living with Lolo serves up some wisdom: 'Create a cozy living room by choosing comfortable furniture, layering textures with pillows and blankets, and incorporating interesting lighting. 'We always anchor the space with a rug and add natural elements like wood while balancing it with contrasting elements like metals and glass.' Naturally, coffee tables, bookshelves, and even artistic ornaments and pendants as we can see above lend themselves well to this. But it doesn't stop here.
'Lately, we have been loving mixing upholstery materials such as having one sofa in a soft woven material and another sofa in a leather,' continues Lauren. So yes, leather sofas are in style in a comfortable living room context too.
6. A dedicated spot to unwind in
Bookworm, deep thinker, jazz listener (for the true Daisy), or all three, visually carving out different zones in your living room that you can relax in, on your terms, will be a true source of cozy energy. This is interior designer Rayana Schmitz's approach to comfortable living room ideas.
The founder and principal designer of Firefinish Interiors explains how creating a space that feels like a retreat goes beyond choosing plush furniture. 'We believe in creating specific areas within your living space that cater to different activities, whether it's lounging, reading, or catching up with friends.' Think of how the design details can nourish the soul and bring joy. 'We're all about crafting an atmosphere that engages your senses – think soft textures, plush rugs, and warm lighting to help you unwind after a long day.'
7. Curated with a touch of nature
A peppering of greenery and natural materials indoors will soothe the mind and ground an interior design scheme. Consider wood, stone, and perhaps even a marble accent, as well as tall or small houseplants suited to your climate. Reflecting the landscape that surrounds will create a cocooning sensation for a natural living room, that is light, airy, and curated.
'We love bringing a bit of the outdoors in, with lush indoor plants and earthy wood finishes to add to the ambiance. We're all about making our clients' spaces uniquely theirs,' continues Rayana who hones in on personalizing spaces to suit clients' diverse interests, be that art or entertaining. 'With this approach, we aim to make sure their living room isn't just a room – it's a haven where memories are made and cherished for years to come.'
8. Desert hues and brutalist detail
Call it an unexpected take on brutalist interiors, but raw, organic forms have their place in a comfortable living room setup. Similarly, linear forms and symmetry as we can see on the hearth of the above space designed by Joshua Smith inc add structure and a little needed edge for a cozy space that is far from bland. 'Comfort comes from having space that you can curl up and unwind and spaces that rejuvenate you during the day,' says Shelagh Conway.
The principal and founder of Triple Heart Design also plays on the ambiance factor and how the space makes you feel. Make it a Scandinavian-inspired Hygge home why don't you? 'It literally means content and comfortable,' continues Shelagh. 'Create moods in each room so that you can let the sunshine in during the day, and wind down to a softly lit space with the sunset. Follow the rhythm of Mother Nature - she sets the mood so well!'
9. A conversation starter
A home that sparks joy and chatter is a good one. As the place where you might spend hours with guests, a comfortable living room and/or playground for conversation is a must. Anchor seating around coffee table books and a cozy fireplace for a prosperous start, just as Lauren of Living with Lolo has done here.
'Personalize the space with accessories and ensure the layout promotes relaxation that is specific for the family that will live here,' says Lauren. Note, however, that items can make a space feel lived in, but there is a stark difference between a finish that is cozy and one that is chaos. For success, tap into more innovative living room storage to camouflage everyday items. 'We also love using creative storage solutions to ensure that clutter is not an issue.'
10. Pops of accent seating
Pretty decor is officially in, and a flowy feel with lofty hues that make you feel elevated is an intrinsic part of this ballet-inspired design movement. Keri Lainas also endorses a neutral palette for comfortable living room spaces that guests will happily 'hang out in.'
'Color scheme is important too! I always lean towards a neutral design that is cohesive with the remainder of the house,' says the owner and principal designer of Keri Michelle Interiors. For a little definition, look at what you can work into your decor. Better yet, how can you enjoy more interest in objects that are designed with purpose? A darker accent chair, or perhaps a pouf, as we can see in the space above designed by Brad Ramsey Interiors, will add a focal point and more seating.
What is the best way to position the couch in a comfortable living room?
Seating in a comfortable living room should encourage conversation and relaxation. 'For maximum comfort, I suggest soft oversized pillows, cozy sofa cushions— stay away from hard and firm— and blankets on the arms,' adds Keri. 'Be careful not to make the space too comfortable, as you want your guests to stay awake!'
'A layout where conversation can not flow is a big no,' continues Keri. 'A layout that incorporates sofas and chair pieces in a half circle or U shape, where everyone can see and speak to each other, is best.'
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