With more time being spent at home than ever before it isn’t surprising that we are all looking for ways to improve the space we inhabit. Working, homeschooling, and domestic chores are dominating our daily lives. Our living rooms are often the ‘hub’ of our home, so what changes can we make to ‘liven’ things up a little?
Furniture
The living room may be serving several purposes in your home. Positioning furniture to allow easy access will make the room feel less cluttered. If you have created a workspace, try to separate the areas, so you’re able to switch off and relax in the evening.
Avoid overfilling the living room, choose appropriate size furniture that’s in proportion to your space. If you have a large room and invest in a new sofa or chair, consider something special that will be the ultimate treat in relaxation. A new cuddle chair or the best big and tall recliners may be just what you need to create a special, comfortable place to unwind at the end of a stressful day. Using the right furniture can turn a dark and uninspiring space, into something warm and creative.
For you bookworms out there, adding shelves or a beautiful bookcase to your living room can create a unique focal point instead of a tv. There are a variety of options, depending on size. Space-saving shelves can be added to alcoves which not only is aesthetically pleasing but provides an organized place for all your treasured books. If reading is your hobby it creates a space to display your favorites and is a reflection of your personality.
Big plants
Bringing the outside in has long been known for its therapeutic benefits. Plants have been proven to increase productivity, considering that many of us are working from home right now, we need all the help we can get. Looking at house plants helps reduce stress levels, ‘lower blood pressure and promote positive feelings.’ Engaging with nature helps with mental fatigue and should be part of everyday life to promote wellbeing.
Wall hangings/art
Plain walls often make a room sterile and dull. Adding some appropriate and well-placed wall art can liven up a room and add some energizing color. There is a variety of wall art available depending on your particular taste. Tapestries and wall rugs add texture and can warm up a room. A great addition if your living room is large and cold. Wall art can enhance the appearance of your home and make it aesthetically appealing. Good visuals will also make the space somewhere you and your family enjoy spending time. Well worth the investment.
Soft furnishings
Soft furnishings could be described as the ‘icing on the cake’ for our living rooms. They’re a great way to update your living room without spending money redecorating. They add style, texture, color, and comfort making the space inviting and cozy. Mixing natural fabrics and fibers adds character and gives our living room an identity of its own. What types of things can we add?
- Cushions
- Rugs
- Throws
- Curtains
- Bean bags
Cushions, throws, and bean bags can be used to enhance an existing color scheme or create a new one. If you like a more bohemian feel, or don’t like your colors regimented, then have fun with it and add as many colors as you can to boost energy and happiness.
Rugs and curtains are a great way to keep warmth in a large cold room. So consider heavy colorful curtains and a textured rug for the ultimate in luxury.
Display photos
Displaying family photos is an important addition to living rooms as it creates a feeling of identity and belonging. During these strange times, it’s crucial we retain a sense of connection. Seeing our family members in a photo display reminds us who we are and creates a happy and secure mindset. There are a plethora of options for displays. Digital photo displays are a great choice if you want to see a selection of photos. They rotate, giving you something new to look at. If you prefer a more traditional alternative then choosing pretty picture frames or canvas can brighten up space and remind you of the precious people in your life.
However, you choose to improve your living environment, creating a warm and inviting space can do wonders for our mental health and wellbeing. It can also give us a focus or a project to work at that we can look back on with pride. Creating something beautiful will reap rewards for many years to come.