In the last of our Spring Series posts, we’re focusing on a room which no doubt gets the most use as we slowly venture into the warmer months. Even during the cold, dark days of winter, we find ourselves huddled around the fire or getting cosy in our favourite armchair. Our living rooms, lounges, TV rooms and sitting rooms are altogether busy and frequented spaces, then. All the more reason to refresh them regularly, and to ensure they not only reflect your personality but are comfortable and cosy spaces too.
The personality aspect of our homes is so important. Not only does it define your style, but it helps to capture what’s important and make it a space you love. One that helps you to relax and unwind. Somewhere you can watch your favourite new TV series, read a book or the paper, or simply have an afternoon nap. Our living rooms are social spaces – somewhere friends and family can gather – but solitary ones too.
The beauty of these more public areas in our home is the personality and character they give. We think and rethink how we want them to look, about the trends we want to adopt and the colours and textures we want to include. Everyone’s style and tastes are so wonderfully different, so it’s about how you embrace these. From coastal to country and something a little more contemporary, we’ve put together a couple of mood boards for those lacklustre living rooms in the hope they’ll inspire you for the new and rejuvenating season ahead.
Coastal Country
Greys/blues, washed rattan & stripes
L-R Somerton Armchair | Florence Grey Next of Tables | Chester Grey Grand Sideboard | Velvet Matte Cushions | Wool Throws | Seger Ceramic Lamp | Large Storage Hamper | Navy Striped Rug | Burford Painted Extra Large TV Unit
Stripes, pastel hues and rattan accessories often remind us of being by the seaside. For many of us, living beside the sea – or the countryside – are locations we dream of moving to. Perhaps once we have retired or when the children have moved out. We associate it with a slower pace of living, somewhere far away from the hustle and bustle where we can enjoy the fresh sea air and relish in the peace and quiet. Whilst you may live some distance away from a seaside town, there’s no reason why you can’t adopt the relaxed and neutral scheme it advocates. Soft greys – like our perennially popular Chester Grey living range – together with pastel blues are perfect for setting the mood; whilst stripes and practical natural accessories – like our beautiful Storage Hamper – add plenty of coastal charm.
Contemporary Country
Rich tones, dark wood & traditional touches
Abington Pine Coffee Table | Extra Large Log Basket | Westcote Blue Small Bookcase | Astrid Grey Throw | Velvet Matte Cushion | William Morris Anemone Cushion | Westcote Blue Widescreen TV Unit | Kardal Lamp
If you favour a little more colour, and like to mix the old with the new, opting for a more modern country-inspired scheme could be for you. Hints of royal blue add a clean and contemporary feel – we love our Westcote Blue living range for bridging the gap between modern and traditional – while pops of mustard and green will keep things looking fresh, classic and bright. Our Abington Pine collection, whilst traditional in design, is ideal for adding a rustic yet contemporary edge to your living room.
Rustic Country
Lots of texture, white-washed wood & a hint of pink
L-R Burford Painted Large Bookcase | Clemento Round Rug | Sussex Painted Widescreen TV Unit | Floyd Table Lamp | Velvet Matte Cushions | Rosalie Faux Fur Cushion | Appleby Oak Glazed Sideboard
From natural textures to soft pastels and light wood, a rustic country scheme is perfect for every season. When we come into spring, introducing seasonal shades – soft pinks and light yellows, for example – will welcome this season of revival into your living room perfectly. Choose white painted and light woods – like our Winchcombe Smoked Oak collection which is perfect for introducing a touch of rustic country charm – for displaying all those books, photographs and knick-knacks. Opt for timeless designs too. Those that look like they’ve always been there, as this will help to induce feelings of comfort and relaxation.
Perhaps the most important thing to consider when redecorating your living room though, is that it paints a picture of you and your family. One that is cosy, comfortable and wonderfully homely.
Head over to our Pinterest page for lots more beautiful living room inspiration!