1. MAKE THE FIREPLACE THE FOCAL POINT
If you have a fireplace centered in the main living room wall, use it as the focal point, and place all the furniture around it. Why not try a layout that emphasizes it, like in this project designed by Cat Dal Interiors.
2. KEEP THE DECOR AROUND MINIMALISTIC
If you aim to have a minimalist living room, then keep the decor restrained and subtle. Balance your interior with complementing colors, and insert the fireplace into the wall so it looks eye-catching yet not overwhelming or bulky.
3. DON'T BE A SLAVE TO SYMMETRY
With the fireplace as the central point in the room, it's tempting to go all out on a symmetrical design. However, a more interesting scheme isn't so concerned with symmetry as it is with balance, ensuring the elements, colors, and even materials don't feel too lopsided.
4. BE MORE CREATIVE WITH FIREPLACE NICHES
If you have a large wall, you can surround the fireplace with shelving, open or closed for a more decorated look. Also, this way you have an accent wall and still draw attention toward the fireplace. Use these niches to showcase interesting curios, artworks, and more. You can also create eye-catching firewood storage, next to your fireplace for a more country-like feel. Logs of firewood can be a beautiful addition to a space.
5. MAKE A FIREPLACE THE CENTERPOINT FOR A U-SHAPED SECTIONAL
There's no better cozy living room idea than one with a curving or a u-shaped sofa. Humans inherently respond to curves, and this layout creates a calm, relaxing, and tranquil setting. To add cherry on top, a fireplace in the center can lend that extra bit of snugness, ideal for these cold days and nights.
6. USE IT TO COZY UP A LARGE LIVING ROOM
Sometimes in large, expansive spaces with several seats and large windows, it can be difficult to create an inward scheme with a warm vibe. Enter fireplaces. These warm contraptions will create a sense of intimacy and calmness in a room that might seem too scattered. Plus, a fireplace helps anchor a room that has too many furniture pieces.
7. ADD A MIRROR ON EITHER SIDES OF THE FIREPLACE
One of the most well-known ways to decorate around a fireplace and mantel is to use the 'three-plus-one' trick. This means using elements of different heights to create visual interest. Place three similar objects on one side of your mantel, and one large one on the other. While doing so, remember not to line them up but more so, stagger them.
8. CHOOSE AN ALTERNATIVE TO A TV OVER A FIREPLACE
Sure, placing a TV above a fireplace may be a common sight but this could be a little disadvantageous since it discourages conversation. It can also hamper the look of your interior since the TV can look out of place with your decoration, and be at the wrong height for casual viewing. .