1. THE "RIGHT" SOFA
We've seen a good few living room schemes without sofas in our time, but in all honestly, it's the heart of a really good living room. 'Seating is key,' says interior designer Mary Patton, founder of Mary Patton Design, 'I always start with a sofa to anchor the space.'
However, it's all about choosing the right sofa for the right space. Not every living room is the same, and it is important to identify the existing features and purpose of the room.
2. SOMETHING VINTAGE
A living room that lacks in something "old" can make a scheme feel contrived, and a little flat. 'Genuine touches are paramount to a living room,' says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of design studio Arsight. 'They give soul to even the most lavish designs.'
3. A LAYERED LIGHTING SCHEME
When it comes to creating the mood of a living room, lighting is everything. The choice of light, specifically the bulb, can have a dramatic impact on the overall vibe of your space.
4. PILLOWS
Throw pillows can be a divisive topic when it comes to the living room, especially when it comes to how many you should have on a sofa. However, they're a really useful piece of decor for rounding out a good scheme.
'Accent pillows are a fun and easy way to add color,' says Mary Patto . 'I like to use them as a low-stress way to mix prints and textures.'
5. FRAGRANCE
'The final touch that should be made to every living room is a room’s fragrance,' says Artem. 'Personalizing a room goes beyond just decor,' he explains. 'Whether through aromatic candles or sprays, fragrance sets the ambiance.'
Scent layering has become a big trend this year, and it is easy to see why. Fragrance is intertwined with emotion and memory, and an essential part of any home. When fragrancing your living room, it is important to choose a scent that you associate with relaxing.
A beautiful candle can be an object for styling that provides ambient lighting as well as a gorgeous scent. Pair it with a complimentary incense to create a unique fragrance that lasts. Add some fun matches for the perfect finishing touch.