The living room has had several iterations over the century, from receiving room to drawing room to the parlor. According to reporting from BuildDirect, around World War I, the parlor also held the deceased after succumbing to influenza. When the war was over and the threat of deadly influenza subsided, Ladies Home Journal encouraged that these “death rooms” should be livened up with a return to socialization and happiness. Hence, the term living room was born.
Today’s living room is a place for friends and family to spend time together, but it’s easy to neglect this sacred space as we navigate our busy lives. Here are five ways to make your living room more comfortable so it’s as inviting as it is functional.
1. Focus on curves
Your living room should invite guests to gather, talk and relax with ease. However, most living rooms are designed where the furniture is designed like a box or faces a television. First and foremost, skip the television as the focal point. Next, incorporate curved furniture that encourages guests to face each other and talk instead of straining and turning to talk to one another. The curved furniture will create a sense of intimacy and make it easier to talk into the evening hours.
2. Include a multi-purpose ottoman
Ottomans can be the perfect way to prop up your feet after a long day but can offer so much more functionality. Choose a multi-purpose ottoman that can be used as an additional seat or a side table. With the help of a wooden tray, guests can use the ottoman to set their drinks or snacks before your dinner party. Your living area will also look bigger and less cluttered with smaller furniture pieces like an ottoman in place.
3. Add plenty of texture
Hard, polished surfaces in your living room are not welcoming or inviting to guests. Opt for surfaces with textures whenever possible. A textured ottoman, fabric wall hangings and blankets for your guests to curl up in are just a start. Consider choosing neutral colors for your furniture and embellishing with brightly colored, textured pillows. The end result is a vibrant and inviting look that shows off your personal style.
4. Show off your green thumb
When it comes to your living room, the more plants you add the better. Bring in oversized leafy plants and colorful flowers to make your guests feel like they’ve stepped into a cozy garden. Rely on colorful or bronze planters to bring more color into your living room. There are also a health benefit to plants that your guests will love. Plants can also help your home feel more alive and even improve the air quality in the room.
5. Personalize your space
Keeping your living room looking cozy should include personalized touches peppered throughout. Add a photo gallery of your family or travels, hang a keepsake you found on an adventure abroad, and use an antique suitcase to hold books and magazines. These touches not only make your guests feel enveloped in your cozy home, it will also give them a talking point to get to know you better.
Always remember your living room isn’t just about you and your family, but a gathering place for friends and guests. Focus on making them comfortable by creating a space with hospitality and warmth in mind. Whether that’s adding additional seating and cozy blankets or incorporating more of your own personalized style, your guests will see your space as a home away from home.