Living rooms do it all. They are spaces for us to relax, entertain, and spend quality time in with friends & family. When we look at a living room for our clients, we consider all of these elements to maximize function and form.

Here are our tips for creating a welcoming living room that is both beautiful and functions well:

Remodeled open living space with dining area in back corner, and sitting area with two ottomans, a coffee table, and a couch with colorful pillows

Choose a Cohesive Design Direction

What do you want the space to feel like? Is it quiet and comfortable? Is it moody and dramatic? Think big picture in terms of atmospherics for the space you are creating. This first step is the jumping off point for all further design decisions.

Consider and Create a Smart Lighting Plan

Because living rooms have so many functions, they always need multiple lighting sources. Think layers; good general or base lighting (like can & mono-points), decorative (sconces, pendants & chandeliers) and task (table & floor lamps). Make sure you have a nice mix of all.

Seating area against a bright window with two upholstered chairs, a reading light, and dramatic artwork on the wall. Part of the minimalist loft project by Tama Bell Design

Embrace Your Space

The space itself will often determine several of the elements in decorating a living room. Is there a natural focal point like a fireplace or a dramatic window with a view? Is the floor plan open to other rooms? Work with the existing architecture when choosing a layout to maximize flow and function of the space.

Seating area against a bright window with a daybed and a traditional couch. Part of the Alta Sonoma project by Tama Bell Design

Add Pops of Color

There are so many ways to add character to a living room. We often start with a neutral palette and like to add pops of color to add interest. That can be a patterned or brightly colored chair, maybe a variety of colorful pillows, or a vibrant piece of art.

Living room with large couch with chaise, a rectangular coffee table, and several colorful pillows. Part of the Sonoma Contemporary Cottage project by Tama Bell Design.

Bring in Art You Love

It’s no secret that I love art. My father was an artist, and I grew up surrounded by beautiful pieces. I believe a home should have art woven throughout its spaces. Remember, art doesn’t have to “be” something, it just needs to make you “feel” something.

Living room in remodeled Sea Ranch home with large artwork, modern fireplace, and organic decor.

Bring Nature In

Natural elements add such a fine layer to a space. We love to add live plants, fresh flowers or a dramatic arrangement of branches. I love a display of ocean rocks or wood stacked like a sculpture. The textures and colors cannot be matched by man and they can add that layer of interest to a shelf or table top.

Wide view of living room with two couches across from each other, two ottomans, and a fireplace against the wall. Part of the Doyle Park District Project by Tama Bell Design.

Add Shelving if Possible

Open shelves is a beautiful way to add display space. We love a combination of books, art or photos, and objects to personalize a space. But also, know thyself: If open shelving will just lead to clutter, opt for more closed storage and only open areas where manageable.

Close up on half of the living room with a stone wall that has a modern fireplace and television, open shelving, and a gray couch. Part of the West Highland Ranch project by Tama Bell Design.

Always Add Window Coverings

Window coverings are such an important finishing touch. Decide whether the coverings need to provide privacy, sun protection or are just that last design layer.

Seating Area against a bright window in the Sonoma Contemporary Cottage project by Tama Bell. Includes a light blue upholstered chair with matching ottoman and a side table with modern lamp and flowers.

Never Enough Books

I love beautiful books. Large, hard copy in a topic that interests you. Some of our favorites are related to art, design, or books about our local area. I love groupings stacked on coffee tables with interesting pieces or accessories on top, or stacked side by side to create a library look in open shelving. I don’t think that one can have too many beautiful books!

Designing Living Rooms