90 Designer-Approved Living Room Decorating Ideas to Try

Lara Kimmerer

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There's so much to consider when it comes to decorating a living room. After all, it's where you unwind with a good book, watch TV on your after a long day, and entertain family and friends. That's why it's important to have a layout that blends style and function seamlessly. To help you out, we've rounded up some of our favorite living room decorating ideas for both spacious and .

You'll find all the inspiration you need to pick the , settle on the right furniture, and weave in the perfect mix of decor choices to complete your space. We've also sprinkled in some trends designers are loving right now—think ceilings decked out in patterned wallpaper, moody paint colors, and colorful sofas. And if your budget allows, you'll spot some ideas for striking architectural features, including wood beams and . There's something for every design style, whether you love or cozy spaces filled with vintage pieces.

1

Layer Neutrals

Lauren Taylor

Neutrals don't have to be boring. Take it from designer , who used texture to make the mix of calming tones really shine. "I worked with soft, tactile fabrics like wool, velvet, mohair, and linen to create depth without relying on bold color," Akbary says.

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2

Carve out Zones

James Furman Photography

If your layout is on the large side, consider incorporating zones. Create spaces for activities like reading, watching TV, and enjoying games as a family. "Selecting furniture such as a chaise, tete-a-tete, or swivel chairs allows for flexibility and connection between zones," says designer .

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Focus on the View

Lara Kimmerer

If you're lucky enough to have a room with a beautiful view, there's no reason to go overboard with your furnishings. The last thing you want is for them to detract from the scenery. "Here, the blues and greens of the water and marsh are amplified by a crisp white sofa, and thoughtfully coordinated accessories," designer . The marble fireplace's horizontal veining mimics the landscape as well, the designer adds.

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4

Try an Oversized Coffee Table

@DanCutronaPhoto

If space allows, go for an oversized coffee table to make a statement, as "it grounds your space and gives opportunity for fun styling while still having usable space on the table," says designer Karen Asprea, founder and principal of . She recommends a dark wood design if your living room is furnished with seating in softer tones.

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Play up a Cozy Aesthetic

Lara Kimmerer

There are three words to describe this living room setup, according to designer Pamela Forman of : "clean, fresh, and comfortable." From the deep blue tile in the bar area to the patterned fabrics on the oversized wooden chairs, there's so much to love about the cozy design scheme.

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6

Play With Scale

Christopher Stark

You'd be surprised by how a piece of oversized art can add drama to your living room. "It's a great conversation piece," says designer . "Additionally, choosing one large piece over several smaller pieces help to reduce visual clutter while celebrating a larger expanse of wall."

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Introduce a Pop of Blue

Lara Kimmerer

"Every room benefits from a standout element that quietly leads the design," says designer . Her choice for this living room? for a calming atmosphere. "The color sets the stage for books and collected objects, and frames the window seat," Schultze, says. "Paired with textured wallpaper and warmer tones, the room feels balanced, cozy, and effortlessly stylish."

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8

Embrace an Eclectic Flair

John Cole

In addition to the striking architectural details, traditional coffee tables, contemporary curved sofas, and an animal print settee are just a few elements that make this living room unique.

"For more historic living rooms like this one from the late 1800s, resist the urge to buy all from one era. Instead, an eclectic mix of design styles and furnishings will keep it fresh and updated," says designer Krista Shugars of .

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Embrace Negative Space

James Furman Photography

Don't feel pressure to deck out every inch of space in your living room. Designer says it's important to leave some breathing room. "Negative space creates a resting point for the eye and allows the other elements to shine," she says. Well-curated accessories and the right artwork ensure that the room's architectural elements stand out.

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10

Mix and Match Patterns

Lara Kimmerer

Create visual interest by layering patterns and textures like this look from designer Isabel Stover of . "Fabrics were the starting point for this room, with nearly 10 used throughout," Stover says.

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Choose a Rug With Character

Phil Crozier

Let a vintage-inspired rug be the center of attention, just as does with this navy and pink design. The stone fireplace mantel adds another dose of visual interest.

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12

Bring in Decorative Lamps

Reid Rolls

Overhead lighting can be too harsh and lack ambiance—that's why living room lamps are so important. Take note from and find fixtures that double as decor.

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Go Dark on the Walls and Ceiling

Brian Wetzel Photo

Enter this moody media room that feels calm, relaxed, and romantic. Designer Krystal Reinhard of paints the walls a dark gray, wallpapers the ceiling in a complementary tone, and hangs a black-out shade perfect for movie night.

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14

Give Your Walls Texture

Harlow and Thistle

In a simple DIY project, this blogger installs peel-and-stick fluted panels to the lower half of her walls. Then, paints everything a soothing blue-green. A tan leather couch creates some much-needed contrast.

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Embrace a Wood Ceiling

Kirsten Francis

This light-filled living space is ideal for enjoying morning coffee or casual conversation. The rustic wood-paneled ceiling pairs beautifully with a vintage Persian rug, oak coffee table, and large white sectional, expertly chosen by Samantha Stathis-Lynch, founder of .

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16

Create an Accent Wall

NativeHouse Photography

The fireplace is already a focal point, but take it a step further by decorating the wall behind it. Here, goes for a geometric wallpaper and paints the backs of the bookcases a rusty red. Colorful art above the mantel is a chic finishing touch.

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Draw Inspiration From Nature

The Painted Hive

When working with timber wall paneling, designer Kristine Franklin decided to embrace a nature-inspired style. Think lush greenery and natural textures, like rattan and wood. An over-size wall hanging of a forest draws the look together and takes advantage of the high ceilings.

18

Create Contrast With Dark Accents

Courtesy of Galey Alix

This chic living space feels bright, despite its many dark accents (a velvet gray sofa, black walls, and partially paneled ceiling). Designer strikes a balance with light flooring, a textured coffee table, and two large mirrors on the far wall.

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Go Maximalist

inside stories

We've been saying it: Minimalism is out and personality is in. That means there's room for bold patterns, bright colors, and rich textures. Here, brings eye-catching accents (a velvet green sofa, botanical wallpaper, and polka dot rug) together and the combination works.

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20

Blend Boho With Modern

Design by Silo Studios, Photo by Marc Mauldin

Don't stick to one design style. In this bright living room, pairs a modern sofa and a timeless checkerboard area rug with whimsical accents, like a pair of wood lounge chairs and an abstract throw.

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Home Design Director

Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2026, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."

Senior Gifts Editor

Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) leads Good Housekeeping’s gift guide strategy. She writes and edits commerce content, where she analyzes lifestyle trends, shopping data, and works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute to recommend top-tested products. Previously, she was the associate lifestyle editor for GH and wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, BobVila.com, and Unique Homes Magazine. When she’s not tracking down buzzy products, you can find her walking her dog, Skye, around Jersey City.

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