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Today, I’d like to talk about the living room and discuss 6 common mistakes we could probably make, how to avoid them, and how to fix them to create a beautiful, inviting, and comfortable space.

The living room is where we go when we want to unwind, read a good book, watch TV, or enjoy the company of friends and family.

It’s crucial, therefore, that it’s inviting and comfortable so we can release the accumulated stress and relax!

Some mistakes can significantly impact our spaces, making them appear somewhat dull.

Let’s see what they are and how to fix them!

1 – FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT

As mentioned earlier, the space must be inviting and comfortable.

In other words, as soon as you step through the door of that room, you should feel like leaving all your worries behind!

To achieve this, the arrangement of the furniture is crucial.

You should arrange everything to support all the activities you want to do in that room: conversation, reading, watching TV…

As mentioned before, it’s paramount to identify the main activity and arrange everything else around it!

Pay attention to the distances!

To place everything against the walls, creating excessive distances between one element and another, is a most common mistake.

The elements shouldn’t appear isolated but feel like they belong together to make the space cohesive and inviting.

That’s why using a rug to tie the furniture and accessories together is paramount.

If the living room is large, create multiple areas, perhaps one for the TV and another for conversation.

If the space is small, try to arrange the elements uniformly and cohesively again to facilitate potential conversation, even if the primary function is watching TV!

(credits: thisisnick.com; theblushhome.com)

2 – PAY ATTENTION TO SHAPES AND MATERIALS

The choice of sofas and seating will make a big difference, both in terms of shapes and materials!

You need to be mindful not only of the aesthetic aspect but also of comfort and materials that are easy to clean!

When it comes to comfort, be careful not to go overboard.

If the seats are so reclined that you’re almost lying down, it doesn’t favor conversation when you have guests over!

As for materials, they should be easy to clean to avoid having to use unattractive sofa covers.

To make the living room even more inviting, remember to add some cushions, which not only serve as decor but can also be functional by providing additional back support if needed.

Also, put on a few blankets to make everything softer and cozier.

Of course, avoid using wool in the summer, but a colorful cotton or linen blanket has its charm even in the warmer months!

(credits: Margaret Boatner; whitepicketfarmhouse.com)

3 – PAY ATTENTION TO THE TV

In recent years, large televisions hung on the wall have become common.

It’s essential to pay close attention to the distances and the TV’s height to maintain proper comfort.

Depending on the distance between the sofa and the TV’s position, you can determine the appropriate size for it.

That is necessary to prevent eye strain, which is already prevalent caused by computer and mobile phone usage.

Another thing to keep in mind is the height at which the TV is hung, with its center ideally at eye level.

That helps prevent you from getting a crick in your neck every time you watch TV!

Television is an element that most of us have, and especially if it’s large, it could somewhat impact the living room’s design.

There are ways, if desired, to hide it or make it less impactful, which I’ve discussed here!

(credits: giseletaranto.com; @rcpa)

4 – COFFEE TABLES

Often, people have a central coffee table and sometimes a side table near the sofa, where you might place a table lamp.

Each seating area must have a surface nearby to set down a book, a glass, a plate, etc.

Coffee tables, especially the central one, are also the right place to create some compositions that can enhance the perception of space.

In smaller spaces, they could even be storage elements to help maintain order.

As for the coffee table, it doesn’t necessarily have to be one large piece; it could also be a composition of several tables of different sizes and heights.

That would allow you to move them quickly, as needed, and add some rhythm, which is always a good thing!

Coffee tables don’t have to be all of the same shape or material.

On the contrary, a bit of variation will make the space more attractive. Ensure, however, that the various tables have elements in common with other furniture or objects in the room.

(credits: vemzu.sk; Rafael Soldi)

5 – LIGHTING

I touch on this point frequently because it’s genuinely crucial.

It is not enough to have a single overhead light source, even if adequate, for visual comfort.

One reason is that it could cast annoying shadows.

It’s paramount to have multiple light sources, perhaps with different color temperatures.

Using bulbs with a natural color temperature (around 4000° Kelvin) could be an excellent idea for general lighting.

For other lights, bulbs should be warm (around 2700° Kelvin).

That helps create a more relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

(credits: katiehodgesdesign.com; studio-mcgee.com)

6 – SCALE AND PROPORTIONS

Pay attention to the measurements of furniture and accessories.

Scale is the size of an element concerning the room, while proportion is the size of an item concerning another.

It’s paramount to play with the scale and proportions of various elements to create visual interest in the environment.

The environment would appear a bit flat if you placed everything on the same plane.

Balance and vary the heights, using plants, artwork, or perhaps a large floor mirror to assist you.

All of this creates movement and visual interest, precisely.

(credits: sohohome.com; sawdust2stitches.com)

PROPORTION

As for proportions, this mainly concerns the coffee table related to the sofa, the rug to the conversation area, and even the hung artwork!

A coffee table that’s too small compared to the sofa may appear as if it’s placed there somewhat by mistake.

The rule suggests that it should be 2/3 the size of the sofa, but as mentioned before, it doesn’t have to be a single table; it could be a composition of multiple tables!

(credits: serenaandlily.com; imgnyc.com)

Regarding the rug, you’ve heard me say it multiple times: it should accommodate all the elements to bring them together in a unified area. If it’s smaller, it would create barriers and make the room look smaller.

The same applies to artwork and wall decorations.

If they are too small, they will get lost, while too large, they risk overwhelming the space.

As for wall decorations, pay attention to heights; the center of the picture or composition should be at eye level.

(credits: rugsusa.com; Meridiani living)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

It is paramount to be able to furnish the living room correctly and functionally, as it is the room we use the most to relax and/or entertain guests!

The choice of furniture and how to arrange them will make a big difference in making this space truly pleasant and inviting.

Today, let’s see together how to do it!

– FUNCTIONALITY

The very first thing to do is to determine whether this room will be used only as a living room or if there will also be a dining area.

Depending on the size of the space, in the second case, it will be necessary to decide whether to give more importance to the dining area or vice versa.

This choice, of course, will depend on how many guests you have for lunch or dinner and how often!

With this premise, let’s now focus more specifically on the living area.

To furnish the living room in the best way, the main thing to understand is how you intend to use this space:

– relaxation

– reading

– television viewing

– socializing/Entertaining

Of course, one doesn’t exclude the others, but everything should revolve around the primary function you want to give it, to make the most of the living room!

(credits: Becky Shea Design; Pins studio)

– FIND THE FOCAL POINT

Once you have determined the functionality you want to give to this area, it will be essential to find the focal point.

Sometimes, this may be immediately apparent, like a fireplace or a window with a beautiful view.

Most of the time, however, you may need to create it!

The focal point is crucial because everything should revolve in some way around it!

It could be the entertainment wall, or if you prefer, it could be the sofa!

If you want to learn a bit more about focal points, I have discussed them here!

(credits: vault-light.com; alibaba)

– TAKE ACCURATE MEASUREMENTS

Taking measurements of everything is important for properly planning and furnishing a space!

Measure the walls, heights, doors (including their opening width), windows, any niches, and even the locations of electrical outlets and light fixtures.

Once you’ve done this, draw a scaled floor plan on paper or using a specific software and virtually play around with furniture arrangements.

That will help you determine the best dimensions for the furniture, ensuring they fit well within the surrounding space!

Additionally, you’ll figure out how to position elements effectively to create a living room that suits your needs.

With this information, you’ll make more targeted and informed purchases.

– PAY ATTENTION TO DISTANCES AND MANEUVERING SPACE

When arranging your furniture, consider how you move around the room, aiming to make each area as accessible as possible.

Avoid blocking pathways with oversized furniture or sofas, even if they are proportionate to the space.

You might opt for two armchairs instead of a sofa; the seating capacity would be the same, but it would allow for better space utilization.

Also, be mindful of the space between each element, not just for comfortable passage but also to open drawers or doors easily!

(credits: optimaproperties.com)

– MAKE EVERYTHING CONVENIENTLY USABLE

Place multiple side tables near the seating areas!

Don’t settle for just a coffee table; ensure that each seat has something nearby to place things on if needed.

There’s nothing worse than having to get up just to set down a glass or your phone.

It takes very little, but side tables are essential in a living room!

If you have a television, carefully choose its placement.

Avoid positioning it opposite a window, as the sunlight will create annoying reflections, making it challenging to watch during the day!

If you have no other choice, I recommend getting appropriate curtains that soften the light and reduce the glare.

(credits: Rafael Soldi; amyepeters.ca)

Pay attention to the lighting as well; general illumination is not enough!

You’ll need additional light sources, such as table lamps or floor lamps, to make the space more comfortable.

Consider placing a lamp next to the sofa or armchair if you enjoy reading and another with a softer light than the general one when you watch TV.

All these adjustments will make your living room more inviting and enjoyable.

(credits: katiehodgesdesign.com; Soho Home)

– USE A RUG

The living room is composed of various elements: at the very least, a sofa, a coffee table, and a floor lamp or a side table with a table lamp.

A rug serves to “tie together” these elements and make them a cohesive whole.

That is always true, even more so if the living room also includes a dining area.

Moreover, a rug adds a touch of warmth to the space.

When selecting a rug, consider the material, especially if you have pets, to ensure it is durable and easy to clean.

However, it’s an element you shouldn’t give up.

For it to truly “tie” the various elements together, it must accommodate all of them or at least the front feet!

(credits: justinecelina.com; @indiebohonest)

– CREATE A CONVERSATION AREA

Regardless of whether you primarily use the living room for watching television or reading, chances are you’ll have guests over at some point!

Having just one large sofa isn’t ideal for promoting conversation; it’s better to have a slightly smaller sofa and another seating option, even if it’s just a simple pouf!

There are three seating arrangements that help create a conversation area: U-shaped, H-shaped, and L-shaped.

– HERE VARIOUS ARRANGEMENTS
L SHAPED

As you can imagine, the L-shaped arrangement consists of a sofa with a chaise longue or a sectional sofa.

That is perhaps the most common arrangement, as numerous chaise longue sofas are available in the market.

If space allows, you can maintain the L-shape even with two sofas or a sofa and one or two seats placed at right angles.

The solution of a sofa and one or two seats positioned on one side will undoubtedly be visually lighter and create a sense of rhythm!

(credits: @carinas_385; puresaltinteriors.com)

H SHAPED

The H-shaped arrangement consists of two sofas (or a sofa and two seats) placed perfectly opposite each other with a coffee table in between.

This setup is undoubtedly very formal and traditional, but it may not be the best if you enjoy watching television!

(credits: karamann.com; Donna Guyler Design)

U SHAPED

Lastly, the U-shaped arrangement can be achieved in various ways:

– a U-shaped sofa;

– three sofas or two sofas and two seats, always placed at right angles;

– alternatively, a sofa and two seats placed opposite each other, but not perfectly parallel.

This last option is also feasible in smaller living rooms!

In practice, the sofa is positioned in front of the TV, and the armchairs are placed beside it, slightly angled, facing the couch.

This layout is ideal for watching TV, conversations, and even reading; you only need to place a lamp near one of the two armchairs!

The arrangement will depend, as already mentioned, on the main function you want to give to the living room and, of course, the available space

(credits: thefoxgroup.com; theblushhome.com)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested—I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

Who doesn’t love the idea of having a luxurious and sophisticated living room?

But is it necessary to spend crazy amounts of money to have such a living room?

No! It is not mandatory: some tips and tricks will help to achieve great results without having to “splurge”!

Let’s see them together

1 – COLORS: START FROM A NEUTRAL BASE

Luxurious environments, regardless of style, have in common that they use neutral colors, at least as a base.

Neutrals make spaces relaxing, elegant, and sophisticated, and because of their versatility, they match any style!

Use neutrals for walls, floors, and larger furnishings, then give them a pop of color with smaller furnishings and decorations!

I remember that when I talk about neutrals, I am not just talking about white, gray, and beige, but any color to which a lot of white (to get a light neutral) or a lot of black (for a dark neutral) is added.

Adding white or black to the color will allow color lovers to not give it up!

The neutrals thus obtained will lose their exciting component but will maintain the mood of that color that will still remain in the background.

If you want to learn more about neutral colors, I describe them in detail here!

(credits: rh.com; interiorbutikker.no)

2 – BOISERIE AND MOLDINGS

Moldings on the walls help give some movement and depth to the room, especially when you have neutral-colored walls.

They also provide textures and warmth, make the room more “rich”, and create visual interest.

Simple and linear moldings go very well with modern or contemporary styles but also with the minimalist one.

The slightly more elaborate ones will go better with the classic style!

You can use low paneling, about a meter high, this has a high visual impact giving importance to the room, especially if colored differently from the wall.

If you make this paneling a little overhanging, you can use this shelf to put decorative objects or frames on it!

Alternatively, but also in addition, you can use full-wall moldings to create frames that will give a very stylish and sophisticated effect.

It is better, in this case, to keep the same color between the wall and the boiserie.

(credits: Sergey Krasyuk; leroymerlin.fr)

– CREATE A FOCAL POINT

The focal point is an essential element in interior design: it catches the eye by creating visual interest!

It is always relevant, but it becomes even more so when you want to make your environments sophisticated and luxurious!

In the living room, the focal point can be the sofa wall or, if well-designed, the TV wall!

For the lucky ones, of course, it could be a beautiful fireplace or a window with a stunning view.

It must be something that “dominates” the rest of the room and around which everything else revolves.

You can use a different wall color to make what is placed next to it stand out.

You could also use a particular wallpaper, a large mirror, or an important painting.

The focal point doesn’t need to be the wall; it could be the sofa itself or a piece of furniture perhaps of particular value (not necessarily economic value!)

(credits: Shiri Ganesh Home Solutions; Etsy- ArttideArt)

4 – CONTRASTING SEAT

Buying coordinated furniture, we have seen it before, is a “mistake” that people often make, for fear of making a wrong…

So people often buy the sofa-armchair set and, in fact, miss out on great opportunities.

For a more luxurious, sophisticated, and studied living room, it is a good thing to have one or two seats contrasting with the sofa.

Different shapes, textures, and colors will break the monotony and make the environment even more interesting, giving it character.

If the seat is totally different from the sofa, “justify” it by picking up the color in the covers of the decorative pillows: this will harmonize the whole thing!

(credits: article.com; textureliving.com)

5 – MIRRORS (AND PICTURES)

Mirrors amplify space and natural light, making the environment more refined, elegant, and luxurious.

Ideally, put them near a window to amplify the light as much as possible; however, be careful what it reflects, that it is a tidy area, or you will duplicate the clutter!

Dare with even oversized mirrors resting on the floor: you’ll give an extra touch of character; by doing so, the mirror could become the focal point of the living room!

That also applies to paintings: compositions of several small-medium-sized paintings are all right, but if you want something to make the living room look more luxurious and sophisticated, then dare with large ones!

They have a higher visual impact and make the environment less stuffy, more linear, and clean!

(credits: living-corriere; Meridiani living)

6 – CURTAINS

Curtains, in general, dress a home by bringing warmth, texture, and color.

They become significant when you want to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your living room.

They don’t have to be super expensive because it’s their scenic effect that changes the perception of the environment!

The best choice, in this case, is drapery curtains, perhaps a double curtain, with a filter curtain and a blackout curtain always open at the sides.

The double curtain brings a bit of contrast and color, making the living room even more elegant and luxurious.

For a perfect result, the rod should be as close to the ceiling as possible to enhance the heights and give more breathing space to the window.

When ceilings are really very high, the rod should still be placed at least 15-20 cm above the window.

It is also important that the stick is wider than the window by at least 10 cm on each side so that the curtain, when open, does not block the passage of light.

The curtain then can rest lightly on the ground or barely touch it; short curtains shrink the room and look “unfinished”!

(credits: pinimg.com; Tom Stringer)

7 – RUGS

I know this point is controversial because many people do not like rugs, yet, in the living room, it is an essential element to make it elegant and sophisticated.

The rug brings warmth and texture, but most importantly, it ties the elements together!

A large rug that encloses the sofa, seats, and coffee and side tables will create a conversation area, a more intimate and welcoming environment.

I’m talking about rugs here!

(credits: theblushhome.com; @homepolish)

8 – PILLOWS

Dressing the sofa with some decorative pillow (and maybe a blanket) is extraordinary for a luxurious living room!

The pillows, such as the curtains and the rug, bring texture and color, and this creates rhythm and contrast.

It is important to alternate between large patterns, solid colors, smaller patterns, and even geometric designs (I’m talking about how to mix patterns here).

Also, use different textures by alternating smoother fabrics with rougher and more worked ones; this tip will make the sofa look more sophisticated and elegant.

A little trick for pretty puffy pillows: get the inside of a material that can be easily “molded” like down and then always take it a little larger than the lining (example: 45×45 pillow with 40×40 lining).

(credits: studio mcgee; french.alibaba.com)

9 – LIGHTS

Artificial lighting will play a significant role in the final result!

First of all, there must be good general light for visual comfort, but ambient and task lights (perhaps near the sofa for reading) should still be added to the general one.

Having multiple types of light helps create contrast and depth.

Where possible, use dimmable lights to manage the intensity of the light as needed!

Then, in choosing lights, be daring, as with mirrors and pictures: get large, distinctive chandeliers or floor lamps that immediately grab attention!

(credits: nomadbubbles.com; Bronxes Studio)

10 – SEARCH FOR PARTICULAR ITEMS

When looking for decorative accessories, avoid ordinary objects; instead, search for unique and out-of-the-ordinary items.

For example, look for vases and candle holders with unusual shapes and finishes.

Buy also trays and create inside your compositions: giving it a sort of border, you will set it more importance.

Remember to create compositions with an odd number of objects, which have different heights and sizes, and distinct colors and finishes.

Another trick that gives a touch of sophistication and luxury is to use, here and there, the principle of symmetry; for example, on the sideboard, you could put two equal lamps on the sides and a beautiful central painting.

It is not to be done constantly and at all costs: on the contrary, it would become boring, but the principle of symmetry immediately gives the impression of something sophisticated!

(credits: etsy.com; east.co.uk)

(credits:pinimg.com;sarahshermansamuel.com)

11 – PLANTS, FLOWERS, BRANCHES, AND ESSENCES

Plants bring a touch of nature into the house, and this is really very important; they also purify the air and elevate the perception of the environment!

They immediately give that touch of elegance and sophistication!

Fresh flowers are also great, but for a more low-cost elegant effect, you can also decorate with branches!

Even these bring movement and freshness with simplicity!

The perception of spaces is not only visual but also concerns what we feel with touch and smell.

The scents of fresh flowers immediately elevate the perception of the environment, but of course, you can also help yourself with candles and diffusers.

Perfumes do not have to be aggressive, it goes without saying, but adding them in the living room will immediately make it more refined and luxurious.

(credits: @homepolish; tileclub.com)

12 – ORDER!

It seems obvious, but clutter is the exact opposite of luxury, even the visual one: a living room too full of things is not good.

We need to embrace a little more of the rules of minimalism, including “less is more”!

Then use storage furnishing to store things that are too much!

Poufs, coffee tables, benches, or baskets are excellent allies for this purpose.

(credits: coffeetableonline.com; wallmart.ca)

I hope this article was helpful and you loved it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your bedroom, or some other room in the house, does not reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultation, all you need to do is contact me!

It’s a question I’m often asked: “How to place furniture in different rooms to make the most of space?”

So today I will try to give you some tips on how to move, room by room!

First, I’ll give you 3 suggestions that apply to any room.

1 – THINK ABOUT THE FUNCTION YOU WANT TO GIVE THAT ROOM.

When you think about putting furniture in a particular space, think about how you would like to use that space or what function best suits your needs, whether because of the space available or its location within the house.

Knowing what you want to do in that room will allow you to choose the right furniture and accessories and organize the space in a manner that is most functional for you!

For example, you might want the living room as a conversation area; in this case, thus, you will not limit yourself to having one sofa, but perhaps you’ll take two and put them facing each other.

However, if the same living room is used more for watching television than anything else, understand that the solution above is not the best!

Better to have a sofa that can stand in front of the television.

a seconda della funzione posiziona i mobili

(credit: lbmdesignstudio.com; @carinas_385)

2 – START WITH THE LARGEST PIECES OF FURNITURE

That sounds trivial, but it’s not!

If you are not careful, you risk creating disharmony and imbalance.

Starting with the larger piece of furniture will then help you add the other items you need so that they remain proportionate to the first one and so that you can create a good balance between the elements.

parti dal mobile più grande

(credit: etsy.com, Pure Salt interiors)

I’ve often said good design is about scale, proportions, and balance: if you don’t start with the larger piece, the risk is to overcrowd the room, making it stuffy!

3 – ALWAYS ALLOW PASSAGE

In placing furniture, always look at the ease of use: getting in and out and moving around the room must be easy!

So think about how people get in, get out, and experience the room (obviously, you first!).

It is essential to be able to move with agility without having to do the obstacle course; the fluidity of the paths will make the rooms even more functional!

(credit: optimaproperties.com)

 As mentioned previously, these three suggestions are valid for any room; now, let’s see more specific tips for each room.

LIVING ROOM

4 – LOOK FOR THE FOCAL POINT

The focal point in the living room could be the television wall, a fireplace, or, for the lucky ones, a beautiful window with a stunning view.

dal punto focale e poi sistema i mobili

(credit: @decoratinglife.ca; Pinterest)

Having found this, position the furniture so that it faces this to emphasize it even more.

5 – CREATE A “CONVERSATION” AREA

As mentioned before, maybe you use the living room mainly to watch television, but it is still easy to happen to have guests in the house.

A single big linear sofa is not the best for encouraging conversation.

Better a corner sofa if there is space or a smaller sofa and some seating.

That will allow you to maintain the principal function of watching television without compromising on a pleasant chat with friends and relatives.

comodo alla conversazione

(credit: hgtv; Marc Williams Furniture)

Also, remember to have some countertops near the seats, such as a coffee table; this will allow you and your guests to be able to rest any glasses or plates!

Please note: Furniture and sofas do NOT have to be necessarily against the walls!

BEDROOM

6-USE THE BED TO CATCH THE EYE

In some rooms, you don’t have much choice, and you necessarily have to place the bed in a certain way, but where you can, think about how you want to use the rest of the space.

In large rooms, you might want a study or a small sitting area; based on that, then decide where to put the bed!

(credit: etsy.com; Maisons du monde)

Remember that, as with living, the bed doesn’t need to be against the wall: you could also put it crosswise.

DINING ROOM.

7 – CHOOSE THE RIGHT TABLE

We saw this in detail a few weeks ago (you can find it here): by understanding the size of the space we can dedicate to the dining room, you would be able to choose the right table, such as shape and size.

It will be essential to have a proportionate rug, especially if the dining area is part of the living room, to divide the space optically.

After the table, the other choices will follow, such as lighting, chairs, and possible sideboards!

While the function of the dining room is clear, it will be paramount for the choice and placement of furniture to understand how much and how you use this room.

(credit: curateanddisplay.co.uk; thelilypadcottage.com)

If you love to have a lot of guests, obviously, it will be more functional to have a large table (always proportionate to the space, mind you!) and perhaps sacrifice storage furniture instead.

Conversely, if you have a more intimate number of guests, you can opt for a smaller table, perhaps extendable, and thus have more space for other furniture.

 

I hope this article on how to place furniture was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

 

Today I would like to see how best to decorate the living room since it is one of the areas of the house we live in most and is where we receive guests.

The living room should represent us, and be inviting and comfortable.

To do this: there are at least 10 things you can’t miss to decorate your living room beyond the style, or mix of styles, you choose.

Let’s see them together in today’s video!

1) SOMETHING ALIVE

Every living room should have green plants.

Not only do they make the environment more inviting, luxurious, and cozy, but they are also highly beneficial in terms of health by absorbing harmful substances.

(If you are interested, here you can find my interview with Simona Borgia: aka Nina urban gardener)

Plants help give that warm touch to the room.

It also has a psychological function: it makes you feel more in touch with nature making you happier.

If you have a black thumb or think you do, you should know that there are many kinds of plants, and some are really easy to care for (again, in the video, Simona tells about this).

Plants with colorful flowers will also give a touch of color that doesn’t hurt.

Also, depending on their size or the type of pot you choose, the plants can be actual decorations!

    

(Brianne Penney)                                                                            (decor.by.dp)

    

(thevintagerugshop.com)                                                                          (pure salt interiors)

2) A COMFORTABLE RUG

A soft rug with colors and patterns that match the style of the rest of the room will help warm the room.

Its softness underfoot will help you relax.

Good design is not only about aesthetics; but also about how you experience it and “taste” it with all your senses, including touch.

All to create cozy, intimate, and comfortable settings.

You should always feel welcomed and comfortable!

Pay attention to its size: it must accommodate the sofa and any armchairs or ottomans, creating a kind of environment within the environment; this will help create atmosphere.

   

(etsy.com)                                                                                         (mcgeeandco.com)

                 

(mk.nordik)                                                                                              (thelilypadcottage.com)

3) A COFFEE TABLE

With the right color, shape, and size, the coffee table will be the link between the various elements of the room and make it more complete.

If you then put together several coffee tables, different in color or shape, you will create original compositions that can give that extra touch to your living room!

It also will be really very functional, because you can place decorative objects on it, and/or trays with food for your guests.

           

(halfwaywholeistic.com)                                                                              (livingspaces.com)

                    

(settingforfour.com)                                                                                    (wallmart.com)

4) SOMETHING PERSONAL

It is necessary to put something personal so that you always feel represented and at ease.

Without these, the room may be beautiful, but definitely colder and less inviting!

It can be anything from your favorite books to photographs or paintings, a vacation memory in short, something that has deep meaning for you.

They will give an idea of your personality!

     

(desenio.com)                                                                                               (jessannkirby.com)

              

(justagirlblog.com)                                                                                     (urbanoutfitters.com)

5) CURTAINS.

Curtains complete the room and give it character by introducing different colors and wanting patterns.

Remember to hang them high, just below the ceiling, to not suffocate the room, because otherwise, they will shrink it (this is one of the mistakes usually made decorating a home, here I tell about the others too!).

    

(amber interiors)                                                                                        (next.co.uk)

             

(pinimg.com)                                                                                       (pinterest.com)

6) PILLOWS.

Adding pillows to your sofa has a dual function:

comfort -> when you sit down, you may need extra support for your back, or maybe you want to take a nap, and it’s helpful to be able to use something soft and cozy!

decorate -> in fact, with pillows, you add textiles, patterns, and colors, giving a bit of liveliness and movement.

All without huge “commitments”: the pillows are indeed easily changed.

You may want to change the pillows slipcovers for each season, giving your living room a new look each time!

    

(house-nerd.com)                                                                                       (mcgeeandco.com)

    

(studio megee)                                                                                         (studio megee)

7) MIRRORS.

Mirrors add style and elegance to the living room.

Not only, if properly placed, they optically expand the space, but more importantly, brightness by reflecting light!

They can be placed anywhere, even on the floor, if very large!

           

(Lauren Miller; design Meg Cassidy creative)                                        (sawdust2stitches.com)

    

(Vanessa Valderrama)                                                                               (westingnow.it)

8) VASES.

Vases are versatile objects; they can be used alone or with a flower arrangement.

You can find them made of a variety of materials, such as glass, terracotta, or metal, and can also have very different shapes and sizes.

They add color and movement to the environment, or they can be perfect allies to create harmony and balance, which are basic concepts for decorating the home: I talk about them here!

            

(H&M home)                                                                                                   (Orsipanosinteriors.com)

               

(cooee.se)                                                                                           (sfgirlbybay.com )

Finally, although they may not seem essential, there are still 2 things that, if used to decorate the living room, will give it warmth and coziness:

9) CANDLES.

Candles help to warm the room and make it more intimate and inviting.

And since to experience it at its best, you have to live space with all your senses, using scented candles will help even more to make you feel comfortable and relaxed!

    

(blondieinthecity.com)                                                                 (hudsonhome.co.uk)

                

(hudsonhome.co.uk)                                                                              (my-furniture.com)

10) BLANKETS.

Adding blankets just placed right on the sofa, almost as if they were thrown, again helps warm the room.

They are perfect for adding color and a different texture to the sofa.

Like pillows, they are easily changeable depending on the season and, except in summer, can wrap and warm you up while watching a movie or reading a book!

       

(carollefortin.com)                                                                         (casafacile.it)

   

(house beautiful)                                                                                      (whitepicketfarmhouse.com)

Would you add something to decorate your living room?

Let me know in the comments!!!

For any doubt don’t hesitate to contact me!

Open-space: ideas for dividing kitchen – living room…

The kitchen and living room are two rooms with quite different functionalities, but are now often seen together in one open-space!

There are pros and cons to having the kitchen and living room in one open space: on the one hand, we have more space, not having dividing walls, brighter rooms, and you definitely increase conviviality because you can talk to guests even while cooking.

On the other hand, the classic clutter in the kitchen, when preparing food, absolutely cannot be hidden, and even all the smells cannot be “enclosed”!

But how do you furnish an open space?

It is a good idea to try to keep, at least optically, these 2 environments separate, emphasizing their different functionalities.

There are at least 7 different ways to create division between these two areas…

Let’s look at them together!

1) USE OF FALSE CEILING and/or PLATFORM

Lowering the ceiling of either area (tends to be better in the kitchen) and perhaps using spotlights will give the impression of an effective division.

You can also do the opposite and decide to raise the kitchen one or two steps: this, too, will divide the two areas.

If the final effective height allows, you may decide to use both the platform and the false ceiling, thus creating two different rooms!

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno                                   Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit iversonsignaturehomes.com)                                                            (credit Paul van de Kooi)

2) THE USE OF COUNTER, ISLAND, OR PENINSULA

If the room is large and spacious, you can place a counter, island, or peninsula (depending on the shape of the kitchen) that delimits the cooking area from the living room.

It will also be super functional as a work surface, and why not as well as a snack table!

In this case, placing the stools so that you sit with your back to the living room looking at the kitchen will emphasize this division even more.

Using lights that “fall” on this top will further help to give the idea of separation!

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno                                 Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit  Aubrie Pick)                                                                         (credit elmueble.com)

3) PLACE THE SOFA WITH ITS BACK TO THE KITCHEN

The couch placed in this way, so that whoever sits down has his back to the kitchen and looks at the living room will act as a dividing “wall” between the two areas!

Adding a beautiful large rug in front of the couch will, even more, help keep these two spaces optically divided.

If, by chance, the back of the couch is not too visually appealing, you can always put some console table or, even better, a container cabinet, which, in addition to dividing the two rooms, will give more storage space!

Then if the space is tiny, you can lean the couch against the long side of the dining table!

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno    (credit lesh-84.ru)

        Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit lesh-84.ru)

4) USE OF DIFFERENT FLOORING

Using different colors or materials for the floors of the two areas will give the impression of two divided rooms.

It is always a matter of optical!

Of course, a sharp line separating these two floorings is not mandatory, but the two surfaces can also meet in a playful and “softer” way by playing with different shapes.

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit dezotti.com)

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit socooc.com)

5) THE USE OF COLOR

Color is quite an incredible ally!

You may decide, for example, to divide the living room and kitchen by using a different color for the walls.

As with flooring, platform, or fall ceiling tiles, it is a matter of optics: the eye, seeing different colors, perceives different environments!

You can dare by coloring with the same color as the walls, even the ceiling creating a kind of box effect for the kitchen!

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno          (credit Ban architecture)

       Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

    (credit Melissa DiRenzo/apartmenttherapy.com)

6) USE OF VERTICAL PARTITIONS

Open (that is, bottomless) bookcases can be extraordinary dividing elements.

They, indeed, will delimit spaces, but without totally closing them off, allowing glance and light to pass through.

If there is not enough space for the thickness of a bookcase, you can create different open partitions, using, for example, wooden slats, or creating honeycomb or lattice structures…

The important thing, in this case, is that they are full height and create a visual separation, but not a sharp one: you must be able to glimpse what is on the other side!

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno(credit roomandboard.com)

                Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit casaegiardino.it)

7) USE OF GLAZING

Stained glass windows are a great alternative to divide the living room and kitchen.

They create separation but keep the brightness intact!

They are ideal for those who would have liked two separate rooms because you also have the option of totally and effectively closing off the kitchen!

That will allow you to really have two separate rooms, but without losing all the advantages that open space offers!

Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno (credit fantastic frank)

                        Open-space: 6 idee per dividere cucina e soggiorno

(credit decorazione.mobelideen.com)

As always, with a bit of caution and balance, you can also create divisions by using two or more of these listed solutions together!

If you have an open space tell me how you furnished it in the comments, I’d love to get to know you better!

Also, write if you are furnishing it and have any doubts, I will be happy to answer you!

I hope this article with ideas for dividing an open-space the kitchen – living room was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments, and if you like this kind of tips you can find more on my YouTube channel!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!