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We unwind here on evenings and weekends. We entertain here, whether it’s our guests or ourselves – absorbing all the films, music and books that inspire us. We may even work from home or play with the kids here. It’s a lot to ask, and yet the lounge plays these parts seamlessly, shape-shifting to fit our varying moods and needs throughout the day. And that’s without mentioning that as the most social, visible space in our home, we also want our living rooms to look effortlessly stylish to anyone who might pop round unannounced. No big deal.
We unwind here on evenings and weekends. We entertain here, whether it’s our guests or ourselves – breathing in all the films, music and books that inspire us. We may even work from home or play with the kids here. It’s a lot to ask, and yet the lounge plays these parts seamlessly, shapeshifting to fit our varying moods and needs throughout the day. And that’s without mentioning that as the most social, visible space in our home, we also want our living rooms to look jaw-droppingly cool to anyone who might pop round unannounced. No big deal.
When it comes to furniture (which can also be a scene stealer in its own right), your choice will likely be dictated by the number of family members and friends who will regularly be hanging out here: will a cosy two-seater sofa be enough, or will you also need an armchair and a few ‘Bottomans’ for your visitors to park their, um, bottoms on? If your existing seats are well-loved, but perhaps a little too well-worn, recovering them in a new fabric – be it a luxurious velvet or a smooth cotton-linen – can be enough to make you want to snuggle up on them all over again.
The feel of home
The trick? To not pitch that seemingly obvious focal point, the television, as the centre of attention. Instead, draw the eye towards something infinitely more beautiful, whether that’s a feature fireplace, a magnificent mirror or an enlivening view out the window. This is one room where exquisite wallpaper can actually play second fiddle for a change, serving as the perfect backdrop to a beloved piece of art or a gallery of framed photographs.
TOP TIP
PULL IT ALL TOGETHER
Nothing feels as cosy as floor-length velvet curtains, swathed in sumptuous print.
The last few pieces of the puzzle are the myriad layers and textures that make a space so inviting. Think a coffee table stacked with books and seating strewn with tactile cushions in an intriguing mix of shapes, sizes and patterns – simply move them around until you find a combination that appeals to you. “Try to include table lamps in your scheme too,” says our Decorating Consultant, Steve Corcoran. “Multiple, low-level lights will create much more of a cosy glow than just a single light source.” Meanwhile, a mantelpiece (if you’re lucky enough to have one) is even more swoon-worthy with an assortment of eye-catching candelabras, hand-painted bookends and treasured keepsakes from your travels.
“Choose a colour that works for the time of day that you are most likely to occupy the living room – whether that’s bright for mornings or dark for evenings. Green and pink are two of the best all-rounders for anytime of day.”
– Steve Corcoran, Decorating Consultant
“Choose a colour that works for the time of day that you are most likely to occupy the living room – whether that’s bright for mornings or dark for evenings. Green and pink are two of the best all-rounders for anytime of day.”
– Steve Corcoran, Decorating Consultant
A Corner of Paradise
In our House, we also can’t get enough of plants. As Steve says, “letting the outside in through nature-inspired prints, echoed by real plants, makes for a soothing, healthy living environment.” Whether you prefer freshly cut flowers or giant leafy ferns, botanicals have the unique power to infuse a room with colour and vitality. But amidst all this, the loveliest addition might just be to carve out your own quiet little nook. A snug away from the main action where you can curl up in a comfy chair and hit pause, if only for a moment. In a room where absolutely everything and anything goes, this is truly where the magic happens.
In our House, we also can’t get enough of plants. From clusters of geraniums to giant leafy ferns.
In our House, we also can’t get enough of plants. From clusters of geraniums to giant leafy ferns, botanicals have the unique power to infuse a room with colour, vitality and life. But amidst all this, the loveliest addition might just be to carve out your own quiet little nook.
In our House, we also can’t get enough of plants. From clusters of geraniums to giant leafy ferns.
In our House, we also can’t get enough of plants. From clusters of geraniums to giant leafy ferns, botanicals have the unique power to infuse a room with colour, vitality and life. But amidst all this, the loveliest addition might just be to carve out your own quiet little nook.
