New looks for the new-style living rooms
that the way it is designed and planned is changing. “It’s become a really important room,” says the designer Suzy Hoodless, who is currently working on one for a client at the Albany in central London, incorporating separate sitting areas and a study. “Every corner of this room has got a different function,” she says. “There’s going to be a really comfortable corner sofa for relaxing; a high-backed armchair by the fire for reading; a corner with a card table for games, and a piano. The study area will be floor-to-ceiling books, a big desk and armchairs.” This “zoning” is a clever way of dealing with a multifunctional, hard-working space. John Lewis is running a pop-up space in its Oxford Street store over the next 10 weeks, showing different styles of living room. Here’s how to nail down your own tastes, and decorate accordingly.
The flexi family space
Few families have space for a separate playroom any more, so if you have young children, the chances are you’re sharing your sitting space. A practical sofa is essential – although leather upholstery is now on the wane, in favour of washable loose covers and stain-resistant fabrics. A large, patterned rug is also a key element, as is plenty of usable storage, from shelves to baskets.
The Zen den
Mindfulness and meditation are rising trends in interiors, and for some, the living room should be a Tv-free space for yoga, reading and quiet contemplation. If that’s you, look for a calming, neutral palette and a mix of natural textures such as linen, wool, cashmere and raffia. A large, soft rug will fit in well, as will a low daybed for reading or napping. Leafy house plants will add a touch of
soothing accent colour.
The hard-working hub
Think in terms of zoning: consider placing larger pieces towards the centre of the room, rather than against the walls; it will allow more space behind for a desk area and shelving. An extendable dining table can be pushed into a corner and topped with a lamp when not in use; and a dark corner can become a cosy reading nook. Using separate rugs will help to delineate the zones.
The designer den
For those with a separate kitchen/ dining area, the living room can be the grown-up space to indulge in a more nocturnal look, with darkpainted walls, velvet seating, and lighting and furniture with metallic finishes. Reflective surfaces – mirrors, metals and marbles – are key to offset the moodiness of a dark space, while dark wood furniture will enhance the rich look. Perhaps the best spot at parties isn’t the kitchen, after all.