The living room- a place where you can find family and friends, indulge in conversations, where memories and laughter are created, where games are played and tv shows are binged. There are many purposes for our living room space and because of that we want to make it not only a functional area but a space that reflects us and our style with a level of comfort that invites you back. In this weeks blog post we will be discussing the different ways you can remodel your living room to an updated and stylish design.
Getting Started
So you’ve made the decision to remodel your living room-Great! The next form of action is to brainstorm what you envision happening in this space- will you be hosting intimate gatherings, parties where extra seating is needed or maybe you’re a movie marathon lover? Once you have decided what purpose the room will be used for our next step is focusing on the needs of the space. This can range from storage to seating, to space planning and even possible wall removal needs. If you do need any structural changes make sure you apply for a building permit in case of load-bearing walls.
From here is where you can brainstorm the different styles and designs you’d like to incorporate into your new living room space. This part can be hard to envision so we suggest going online to look at different ideas and inspirations. If you’re still stuck hire an interior designer to help you sort everything out and create a overall theme!
Set Up
The set up of your living-room can help shape whatever functions you require for the space. This can be where your furniture is placed and how- you display and keep things organized. When you plan out your seating selections make sure to think of what you’ll be using the space for. If this is a room where you will hold gatherings maybe you’d like more seating options or less furniture to allow walking and standing areas. If you’re looking to extend the size of the room-take down a wall, after making sure it’s not load-bearing. This will open the space and create a more cohesive design that allows the once separated rooms to come together.
Shelving is one of the main things people often over look but it’s very important to prioritize storage to keep the space organized and clean. Another great thing about shelves is that they come in a large display of height, colour and size. We recommend the vertical space method- this is where you use taller shelving units that can go from floor to ceiling to create a vertical space which makes the room appear larger than what is actually is. If you’re looking for a specific style of shelving and can’t find any online contact a local cabinet maker to help make your design come to life.
Design
When designing your living room choosing the colour can help regulate how you’ll feel in the space. An example is how warm tones and colours can make you feel happy, and energized while cold tones make us feel relaxed and calm. If you wanted to choose a neutral colour you can always create an accent or feature wall to display -this can be a wall with a different colour of paint than the other 3. Another idea for this space is to have this area as a feature wall with you fireplace or tv setup. Or even both! This is a space where you can put your own design spin into- and also a great area to display a vertical space shelfing unit to enchase the design. Focal points are a great way to plan out how you’d like your furniture placed.
Lighting
If you’re bored of the singular light fixture in the middle of the room now is the time to upgrade and add some new lighting features to the space! A great lighting technique for living rooms is using layered lighting- this is where you have multiple light sources to choose from. Pot lights are always a great and functional idea especially if you were to add a dimmer switch to lower and heighten the brightness through the day. For any new wiring needs we recommend hiring a licensed electrician so that you have reliable lighting and don’t electrocute yourself. Adding floor or table lamps are also a great design feature- not only is it nice to have task lighting for the use of it but also this allows you to match and add chosen lamp shades to go with the rooms design choices. If you do want to keep your singular lighting fixture above as well – update it with a new lighting design that matches your new room.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories in your living room adding wall art, mirrors, or photos helps take away the echo in the room and adds some personality to the space. Having throw pillows and small blankets that go with the design will allow for extra comfort in your seating areas, and these items can be changed out during seasonal events to keep everything fresh and exciting. Adding plants into your design can help produce oxygen and create a natural air purification filter-just make sure they are not toxic to pets or humans. So have fun and show off who you are with your personal accessories on display!
Get Started!
We hope this weeks blog post gave you some new insights on how to bring an outdated living to updated and in! Remember to have fun with this space and allow your personality to flow through your design choices.
Cya next week!
A4 Group Construction Services INC
Author- Julia Baker
