Loungey living

Find a new way to use your living room as fall weather sends us inside

Autumn means it's back to the living room for inside entertaining and visits with family and friends. For those with a formal, rarely used space, changing up the look and feel with a casual vibe is a great way to start living in the living room again.

Creating a loungey, relaxed living room ensures that it's a welcome space for quiet activities like reading, watching television, or catching a quick Saturday afternoon nap, as well a gathering hub for friends and family who are in your pandemic bubble.

GETTING COSY

The sofa: It's the most important furnishing in your living room, so when planning the space, start with the sofa. To increase

the comfort level of your living room consider a lower, deeper sofa. Standard seat height is 17 to 18 inches, and depth is 22 to 24 inches; but a lower, deeper sofa is better proportioned for cuddling to watch a movie or snoozing away a chilly Sunday afternoon. Opt for a washable slipcover, especially if using the sofa daily.

Extra seating: Floor pillows are another way to create a casual mood and increase seating options — they're perfect for those who want their own space. They should be made of durable materials. I like the ones made from vintage handwoven carpet remnants because they add elegant patterns and durability. Finishing touches: Add polish and comfort to the sofa with soft cushions and throws to create a cosy feeling. If your sofa is a solid colour, choose patterned cushions

(and vice versa); this will create a visual balance.

ENTERTAINING

Seating: In-home entertaining is a great way to see friends and family without heading out to crowded restaurants and bars. Smaller groups within your safe bubble can enjoy music, cocktails or movies.

Designing a stylish living room for entertaining small groups is easy. Simply implement a few decor tricks used in lounges and bars.

Try using four to six upholstered club chairs and a large ottoman rather than the traditional sofa, loveseat and chair. Lighting: Using LED light bar systems (often controlled by an app on your device) to splash your walls with colour is a great way to create a high-energy nightclub mood or soothing jazz vibe at night.

Entertainment: I'm predicting the return of the 1960s-style multi-entertainment units, complete with electric fireplace for mood, speakers for music and a mini-bar fridge for drinks. When not in use, the unit closes up and looks like a fine piece of console furniture.

On a smaller scale, I'm making it a point to be on the lookout for well designed, attractive TV tray tables. These will be invaluable for serving dinner and cocktails on movie nights this winter and can easily be stored away after guests leave.

Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give feedback? You can contact Karl on Instagram at Karl Lohnes.

Karl Lohnes has worked as a home decor expert and product designer for 25 years.