How to Make Your Living Room Cosy and Chic

We recently moved into our forever home and whilst we’re still in renovation mode with so much left to do (the upstairs is almost complete but very little else), I’ve been researching how to make our home both cosy and chic, especially the open plan living room we have, as we spend so much time in there be it watching TV together; playing films on the projector or playing with Florence’s toys (which always seem to end up in there from her bedroom). Despite our dining room being almost finished, there’s something so inviting about the living room, so much so we often snack in there (just don’t tell my husband who likes us all to eat in the dining room).

Below, I’ve listed some ideas on how to achieve style and comfort in the most important space in your home: your living room. I hope you find my tips useful. Many are inspired by my Mum, whose house is above, taken on Christmas Day. I adore her style: she mixes precious family heirlooms with modern furnishings, blinds, curtains and cushions with tonnes of colour. Her home is filled with original artwork she collects and antiques. I love her style!

 

Upgrade Your Sofa

The living room is the most important room in the house as far as I’m concerned and the sofa is the most important piece of furniture in it. The bed is a close second- as I often nap on the sofa! Now is the ideal time to upgrade your sofa with sales everywhere post Christmas with brilliant deals to be had. It’s when stores sell their old stock in time for the new at the start of the year so go do your research online first but then importantly in person to get a proper feel for the colour, texture, style and feel of the sofas you like. Take your room’s measurements too to ensure anything you buy will fit and work out your colour scheme. Going in person, as far as I’m concerned, is the best way to ensure you find the most comfortable sofa for your home.

 

Add a Rug and Blinds

Flowers and art make a home and a rug and blinds make a living room! Look at adding a stylish and also warm rug (especially if you have hardwood floors) to keep your toes toasty in your living room, and check out both department and furniture shops as well, second-hand and charity/thrift stores. I personally adore the Persian Rugs my mum gifted us when we moved which are beautifully crafted, vibrant and valuable pieces. When it comes to blinds, consider Roman Blinds with or without the addition of curtains. Not only do they look chic, but they’re also highly effective insulators, which means you’ll find it easier to stay warm during the colder months too. 

 

Candles and Incense

Lighting a few candles to complement the room’s lighting can instantly make the room feel cosy and atmospheric, especially on a dark winter’s night. I also recommended you purchse a few incense sticks or invest in a diffuser. We often add pure essential oils to our diffuser so we can all relax after a long day. Adding lavender is a calming option before bedtime. Please be careful when lighting candles around children and keep them out of reach, always ensuring they are blown out before you go to sleep or leave the house. Never leave children alone with candles burning.

 

Change the Furniture Layout

Does all the seating in your living room point towards the TV? That’s great for when you’re watching your favourite Netflix shows, but not so great when you’re not. Positioning the furniture so they face each other  or adding an armchair or footstool will help boost conversations, encourage you to read a book, or simply relax more.  

 

Blankets, Throws, Cushions

Finally, look at investing in some blankets, throws and cushions which are easy ways to transform a sofa with colour and texture if you’re not splashing out on a new one. They also ensure you’re more comfortable. I like to add cushions to our chairs too for added cosiness.