When I first moved into my apartment, the living room was its epicenter — only it didn’t really feel like that. It was an area that simply was, with some mismatched furniture and not much to hold everything together. I knew that if I was going to make my living room really feel like home, it was about time I invested a bit more effort into the living room decor. (Spouses? Transforming that outdated space they were forced to call “Kitchen 7” into the most likely part of their home you’ll find them in today.) Over time, I learned that tiny, modern updates can help a room feel cool, useful, and snug.
If you’re having similar feelings about your living room, consider these five simple but effective strategies for giving your living room decor a much-needed update in 2021 and transforming it into a space that feels fresh, inviting, and current.
Clean and modern furniture for Living Room Decor
The first time I replaced my old, clunky furniture with a sleeker, modern look is fresh in my memory. My living room felt bigger, and the ambiance shifted. Out went a bulky, standard sofa, and in its place I put a modern low-slung sectional in neutral tones, and it was like fresh air. Now the room had some breathing room. The secret here is a clean line, utilitarian, no fuss style that we can get behind.
When I redesigned, I prioritized a few staple items:
Neutrals Sofa: It became the focal point of the room. It’s simple, comfortable, and versatile.
Geometric Coffee Table: I went for one with metal legs and a glass top. It looks modern, yes; It also opens up the space.
Functional Side Tables: I opted for small, slim (storage) tables instead of ridiculously large end tables.
The result? Sleek modern lines that wouldn’t crowd the room. Not sure where to begin, concentrate on one piece of furniture as a statement. You will be amazed at how transformative it is.
Pro Tip: Keep your color palette neutral — grays, whites, and beige all work — especially when you are just getting started. It’s simple to bring in pops of color with art and accessories later.
And if you’re looking for inspiration on budget-friendly updates, check out my blog on 5 Budget-Friendly Living Room Updates You’ll Love to see how easy it is to update that space without spending a fortune.
Smart Lighting: Setting the Mood
Lighting is a game-changer in my living room. I hadn’t realized how key it was to setting the right vibe. Today, I can quickly switch up the ambiance in my living room based on the time of day or my mood. Smart lighting has transformed the game. I installed dimmable pendant lights and a handful of smart bulbs. The difference was instant. Smart Lighting is the best idea for living room decor.
Here’s what I did:
Pendant Lights: They bring a modern, sophisticated air to the room and illuminate the space with soft, even lighting.
Smart Bulbs: I can adjust the brightness and color based on my mood. When I have to work in a sun-washed room, or in some melancholy corner sheltered by shadows, it’s all there at my fingertips.
Adjustable Floor Lamps: I put a couple of floor lamps by the reading nook. They add warmth and cast just the right light when I want to curl up with a good book.
Why Smart Lighting? It’s not so much about lighting the room as it is about romantic atmosphere. No more overhead lighting damaging me. I find, it’s the flexibility that exactly makes my living room decor look modern.
Want more lighting tips? Be sure to also take a look at Soft Lighting in Room: 5 Stylish Tricks, where I share other tricks on making the room more welcoming and fashionable.
Go big: A personal touch of wall art
Come on, admit it — that wall looks just a little empty without something to take the eye off of it. A simple way to upgrade living room decor is by investing in bold wall art. I recall how I felt when my whole living room reconfigured after I hung an oversized abstract painting on its largest wall. It was the room’s centerpiece, and it made the space feel more finished right away.
Here’s what I did:
One Big Statement Piece: Rather than a few smaller frames, I opted for one big, bold piece of art that fits the color scheme.
Handmade: I have framed some of my favorite travel photos in black and white. These bring character to the space and make the kitchen feel homey.
Layering Picture Frames: I also layered smaller frames and art on a shelf to grab a more eclectic, collected feel.
Pro Tip: Do not cram all of your walls. Just one or two statement pieces are more effective than an entire wall of smaller frames. It keeps that room feeling modern and new.
If you like this living room decor idea, I’ve also included a post about 4 Amazing Living Room Wall Decor Ideas You Want to See, where I go into more detail about adding wall art and other elements to make the most of your living area.
Taking It Inside: Green and Texture
One of the best design decisions I could have ever made is bringing nature into my living room decor. The addition of plants and natural textures brought warmth and life to my home. I added a bunch of indoor plants, and let me tell you—they not only liven up the room, but also make it just that much more calming. This is one of the best living room decor idea for your living room.
Here’s what I did:
Indoor Plants: I put a big fiddle leaf fig tree in the corner by the window and stuck some little succulents on the shelves. It made the room instantly feel fresh and welcoming.
Wooden Accents: I replaced my old coffee table with one that has a wooden top. AT HOME Pair the modern furniture with natural wood for balance.
Stone and Textures: On the mantle, I added a tiny stone sculpture. It was an earthy, polished touch.
Why Nature? It brings a beautifully calm and balanced feel. And, plants also clean the air and make your home feel more alive.
If you are interested in other ways of getting nature into the comfort of your own home, do not forget to also read Design Tips for Blending Modern and Natural Themes Into Your Home, where I divulge more ideas on how we can fuse modern accents with those from natural settings.
Functional Furniture: Storage with Style
The truth is, we all have clutter. But while your living room might be modern, that doesn’t mean it has to be messy. I found that living room furniture with function was the time-saving solution to keeping my living space both stylish and tidy! I jettisoned my old coffee table for one that does double duty as a storage unit, and I’ve never been happier.
Here’s how I made it work:
Storage Ottoman: My ottoman houses spare blankets, pillows, and magazines today — but the living room still looks orderly, AND it’s a place I can put up my feet.
Sofa with Storage: I purchased a sectional sofa that has secret compartments. It’s a design transformation for stashing extra throws and cushions.
Floating Shelves: I added floating shelves for books, decor, etc – this was great to help clear the floor and keep organized.
Why Functional Furniture? It’s a great way to minimize your living room decor while still getting the essential storage you need.
And, if you’re searching for some more useful home design inspiration, be sure to check out my post This Is The Best DIY Home Decor Ideas Inspiration To Make Your Own Spindles where I talk about innovative DIY storage ideas for every room in the house.
Conclusion: Express Your Style in Your Living Room Decor
Modernizing your living room decor doesn’t have to be costly or complicated. A few contemporary additions , and your living room can be a functional and stylish haven all day, every day. But whether you’re mixing in modern furniture, going for greenery, or playing with light, the goal is to get a space that makes you feel comfortable and at home and more like yourself.
So, do you have the guts to jump in? Test out the following 5 quick ways to update your living room decor and see how small changes can make big differences. Your perfect living room is a few clicks away.
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I would love to hear how you have turned your living room into something fresh and new. Show me your before-and-after pictures on social media and tag me. For more design tips and advice, make sure that you are also..pop over to my other blog posts, Stylish Bedroom Makeovers and Living Room Updates on a Budget.
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