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5 tips for designing your living room.

  • thatstudiodesign
  • Jun 20
  • 3 min read

When we set out to design a living room, we want it to be beautiful but also practical, durable, and something that won’t tire us over time. This space is the heart of the home—a place where we eat, relax, and share with family and friends. If you don’t know where to start, here are 5 basic tips to create a living room that suits you and stands the test of time.



1. What kind of space do you have? Keep the measurements in mind


Before deciding on colors or styles, it’s essential to fully understand the actual space of your living room. Analyze the dimensions and layout before purchasing any furniture. For example, a sofa that is too large can visually overwhelm a small space and make it less functional. On the other hand, choosing modular sofas with legs and slim lines adds visual lightness and helps maintain a feeling of spaciousness. Additionally, they will allow you to adapt the space according to your needs and move around freely. Following this rule, we can continue with the rest of the elements that make up the space.




2. How are you going to use it? Think about functionality


Every home is unique, and every living room must meet the real needs of those who live in it. Will you use it just for eating, or also as a workspace, reading area, or to host guests? Before furnishing, think about how you will use the space and clearly define the different zones according to their purpose: for example, a dining area in a home that frequently hosts many guests might require a large or extendable table; if, on the other hand, it’s your space to relax, a corner with a comfortable armchair or sofa will be ideal; and in walkways, make sure there are no obstacles that hinder movement. Good planning will help you gain comfort and functionality.

Combining different light sources will help you create atmospheres more easily. Floor lamps, table lamps, or wall lamps add warmth, intimacy, and a special touch, making it easier to define zones and create a much cozier and more versatile space.




3. Furniture: neutral, but with character


When choosing furniture, opt for neutral pieces but with character. Large furniture items like the dining table, TV stand, or sideboard should be timeless and easy to coordinate, which is why natural tones like light wood and sofas in soft gray or beige shades work so well. This creates a calm and elegant base that never goes out of style. Reserve pops of color or bolder materials for smaller pieces like side tables, lamps, or poufs, as well as for decorative elements. This strategy, combined with the three-color rule, will give you the flexibility to refresh your style with small changes without having to make a big investment.




4. The three-color rule


Choosing colors can be tricky, but if you use the three-color rule, everything becomes easier. This technique helps you create a balanced and visually pleasing atmosphere. Start with a neutral, light base for the walls and main furniture pieces, which brings brightness and a sense of space. Then add a contrasting color in a similar tone but slightly more intense, like on the sofa or a rug. Finally, add personality with a more vibrant accent color in small elements like cushions, lamps, or throws. This combination creates harmony, balance, and at the same time allows you to refresh the decor easily without needing to replace the main furniture when you're in the mood for a change.




5. The details that make the difference


It’s often the little details that make all the difference and give a space its soul. A special sculpture, a lamp with personality, or a handcrafted piece can completely transform the atmosphere of your living room and help you express your unique style. They don’t need to be big or expensive—choose small pieces with character. Materials like natural stone, metal, textiles, or vintage and locally crafted items bring authenticity and warmth.

Don’t forget to add a touch of green to your home—plants bring freshness, life, and an immediate sense of well-being, whether large or small. These details add depth and tell a story, making the space feel more vibrant, welcoming, and truly yours.



 
 
 

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