55 Living Room Ideas That Will Inspire You

When it comes to putting together the perfect living room, there are a few things you should keep in mind. You might want to choose a paint color to brighten up the space or opt for an eye-catching rug. On top of that, Curbed notes that it's best to ensure that you buy a quality couch, take advantage of proper lighting, and layer textures. That's not to mention adding accents that are both practical and stylish. Of course, you'll also want to design something that makes you happy and reflects your vibe.

That's why you should take the time to figure out a plan before you start choosing random pieces and paint colors. You may hope that they all will come together in a cohesive design in the end, but that very likely might not happen. Indeed, designer Mark Lavender explained to The Spruce, "It is critical to fully understand how you want to use your space before you begin the design process."

With all of that in mind, check out these living room ideas that are guaranteed to inspire you.

Adding shelves is a great way to deal with clutter while also giving you the perfect place to display your treasures, books, and knick-knacks. On top of that, if you choose a set of stylish shelves and decorate them like a pro, it is another way to add a little pizzazz to your living room.

Does your living room have an industrial vibe? Does it have large windows, a fireplace, wood beams, or a strangely angular wall? If your space has any unique features, use art and furniture to make them a focal point or highlight them in some fantastic way.

Painting your living room walls white might seem like a safe — dare we say (gasp!) boring — choice. However, that isn't the case at all. By adding the right furniture and accents that reflect your personal style, a mostly white room becomes a wonderfully light space.

While there's no doubt that white living rooms are a simple way to embrace a light space and dark walls can add drama, you might be someone who prefers beautifully bold colors. In that case, why not consider a bright yellow or vibrant purple?

While you can easily choose chairs that match your couch, a great way to show off your style while also providing extra seating is to opt for a fashionable chair that stands out on its own.

For the consummate entertainers among us, having plenty of seating is integral to hosting parties. Benches are an easy solution that — thanks to the multitude of styles available — can add some major impact to your living room

Rugs come in all shapes and sizes, which means that you'll definitely be able to find one that you love. Rugs with striking colors, intricate patterns, and delightful designs bring some fun to the floor.

Pillows in all kinds of shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns are a fabulous way to make your living room both extra comfy and extra stylish. While you could choose one of two of your favorites, another options is to make the space a pillow-filled sanctuary.

One of the fun things about art is how you choose to display it in your living room. You can just showcase one work or create a gallery wall with a multitude of pieces. Displaying your art also allows you to be creative — you can embrace a common theme or color palette, or you can mix it up as much as you want.

The saying may be "go big or go home," but in this case, you can go big in your home! Add a mural — either a simple design that you paint yourself or a more complicated one by a professional — to a prominent wall and let the art make a massive statement in your living room.

Some people think of curtains as purely functional — something that provides privacy in your living room and cuts down on direct sunlight streaming in. But curtains also add another layer to your design. Match them with your other décor or choose ones with a lively color or pattern that adds oomph to your living room.

Add both light and flair to your living room with a dazzling light fixture. Another item that varies widely in design, materials, and price, some are so striking that they're like a work of art that gives off a gorgeous glow.

There are countless ways to use wood to accent your living room, including using wood panels on the wall. They provide a minimalist Scandinavian vibe that provides a perfect backdrop to other standout design elements such as funky furniture and bold colors.

Why choose just one wall color in your living room when you can opt for two? Or three or four? You could paint walls right next to each other different colors, create contrast with opposite walls or simply create one accent wall. 

Find a couple small and medium-sized mirrors that you love — either matching or different — and hang them on your living room wall. It provides an elegant look while redirecting light, making the room seem lighter and brighter.

Add another accent to your living room with a stylish blanket or two. While they are another way to indulge in eye-catching colors and intriguing patterns, they also provide you with some extra warmth on those colder days and nights.

If you have gorgeous wood panels in your living room, you would be totally justified to leave them as they are or do your best to keep them pristine. However, if they're not exactly in the best shape or are somewhat dated, then you might want to paint those panels an attractively modern color. 

Even if your living room doesn't have any particularly unique features, that doesn't mean that you can't add one. Cutting out an intriguing nook in a wall adds character and charm. Just make sure that there aren't any important wires in the wall (and maybe hire a professional) before you make any cuts.

Macramé is not only a lovely artistic addition to any living room, but it can also be an attractive way to hang up your plants. Do a quick search online and you'll be able to find plenty of artists who make handmade macramé treasures.

Checkered floors aren't just for vintage diners and classic kitchens. Having a checkered floor in a living room creates a vibrant and fun space that can be further pepped up with pops of bright, bold, or luscious colors.

Painting exposed brick may seem like an unforgivable thing to do. However, taking such a big risk can have a seriously worthwhile payoff. Painted brick can have a gorgeous patterned look to it that gives an old building material new life.

It doesn't take a lot to put together a minimalist living room, which is one of the benefits of the striking style. All you need is a few key pieces, such as a chic couch, matching rug, and sleek coffee table. Simple accessories, such as a single vase of white flowers, keep the look understated.

Air conditioning units and central air are convenient ways to keep your home cool when the weather is on the hotter side. However, when you simply want a bit of a breeze or would like to keep the air moving around your living room, an attractive ceiling fan does the trick.

Living rooms are the perfect spaces to indulge your luxurious leanings. To achieve a glamorous look, opt for mirrored surfaces, chrome details, crystal embellishes, and marble accents. When considering upholstery look to silk, satin, and velvet. And don't forget the fine art.

If you don't have extra space to park your bike or stash away your photography equipment, then why not make it part of your décor? Hang your two-wheeled transportation on the wall or place your spotlight in a strategic spot to make it seem almost sculptural.

Nailing a stellar style in your living room doesn't mean that everything has to seem pristine. In fact, leaving certain aspects — like exposed brick walls and metal beams in the ceiling — create a funky aesthetic that feels artistic and fun.

While children's bedrooms may come to mind when thinking about pastel decor, these pretty shades can look extremely sophisticated in a modern living room. Incorporate some white accents and cheery foliage to keep the room feeling fresh.