Inspiration for a living room in Los Angeles.

Nestled in the midst of the Cotswolds, this listed former rectory required a sensitive orangery design to complement the features of this heritage property and to successfully obtain the necessary planning consents. Simon Phipps, one of David Salisbury’s most experienced designers, has extensive experience of designing bespoke orangeries and garden rooms for these types of period buildings and was well placed to undertake this design brief. To provide some wider context, this Grade II* listed farmhouse is located within the Broadwell Conservation Area and the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The host building was a three storey detached property of lime stone construction with a slate roof. The proposed orangery aimed to conserve the house as a family home for modern living, whilst preserving the ‘significance of the heritage asset.’ David Salisbury undertook and successfully obtained full planning and listed building consents for this project, as part of our comprehensive planning service. The farmhouse featured a more recent extension which housed an upgraded new kitchen, which was also renovated as part of the project. Although the orangery attaches solely to the more recent extension, it had to remain in keeping and subservient to the original listed property. The simple but classic design, with slim fascia and slim glazing pattern, added a bright reception room directly off the new kitchen. Two windows were blocked in as part of the works, but with the doors to the kitchen removed to create a permanent opening and with the glass lantern positioned directly above the opening with no rear ceiling, there is a dramatic increase in natural light into the new kitchen. Wide French doors on two elevations provide an ideal link with the gardens and entertaining area to the side. The footprint of the new extension measures approximately 6.2m wide by 4.2m deep, providing 26 square metres of additional luxurious living space, rounded off in our contemporary Mendip Grey paint finish. The before and after photos below help to illustrate just how the rear of this period property has been transformed, with the new orangery creating an exquisite link between the house and garden. This bespoke orangery has more than fulfilled the original design brief, providing an extension that preserves the fabric and significance of the owner’s lovely listed home whilst also conserving the property as a family home for future generations. Cotswolds based Cid Carr Interior Design, who specialise in the subtle transformation of heritage buildings for modern living, designed the interior space and acted as project liaison.

CRUCHET

La Compagnie de la Maison

Photo of a family room in Paris.

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Project Fulham Reach

VMDSTUDIO LTD

A modern living room design in natural tones is characterized by an aesthetic appeal and functionality, creating a cozy and harmonious atmosphere. It revolves around the use of natural materials, neutral color palettes, and a minimalist approach to decor. Key elements of a modern living room design in natural tones include: Color palette: Utilize neutral shades such as beige, gray, white, brown, and tones inspired by natural materials like wood or stone. This creates a calm and harmonious ambiance. Natural materials: Incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, rattan, cotton, or linen fabrics. They add warmth and a sense of authenticity to the living room. Minimalism: Embrace clean lines and simple forms for furniture. Avoid excessive ornamentation or clutter to achieve a spacious and airy feel. Natural lighting: Maximize natural light by incorporating large windows and minimizing the use of heavy curtains or blinds. This highlights the naturalness and brightness of the interior. Accents and details: Add some accent pieces such as decorative cushions, throws, or rugs with textures and geometric patterns. This adds visual interest and depth to the space. Furniture: Choose modern furniture with smooth surfaces and minimalist designs. Optimize space utilization by considering modular or multi-functional furniture pieces. Technology integration: Incorporate built-in audio and video systems, integrated lighting solutions, and smart home features to create a modern and comfortable living space. Plants and natural elements: Introduce some plants or flowers to the living room to bring freshness and a touch of nature. Overall, a modern living room design in natural tones aims to create a visually pleasing and serene environment by embracing simplicity, natural materials, and a harmonious color scheme.

Essence of Japan, Ealing, London

Yoko Kloeden Design

This is an example of a mid-sized asian open concept living room in London with light hardwood floors and a wall-mounted tv.

A Twist on Traditional

Amy Kartheiser Design

Design ideas for a traditional living room in Chicago.

Hulls House

Create Perfect

Inspiration for a mid-sized country formal enclosed living room in Gloucestershire with grey walls, dark hardwood floors, a two-sided fireplace, a plaster fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv, brown floor and panelled walls.

Living Design Ideas

The best room for gathering with your family and friends in a cosy environment is your living room or family room. You want to hang out where the lounge furniture is the most comfortable and sofas or chairs create a sense of homeliness. Filling this important space with cheap furniture is unlikely to bring you the same long-lasting comfort as a quality chaise lounge or a couch. These choices will directly affect the quality of your evenings as you wind down from the daily grind. While planning a renovation or redesign, weigh up the priorities of seating, heating, an entertainment unit and bookcases. Identify your main activity in the room and and design around that. Many living rooms aren't complete without a fireplace, but if you can't accommodate that, invest in built-in or furniture that suits your home. Common trends include Danish furniture and other kinds of Scandinavian furniture. Plush sofas, recliner chairs and sofa beds will always be popular. Finally, when the big components are planned out, think about what colour scheme and decor will best suit you and your family. If needed, an interior designer can help here.

Should I include a fireplace in my living room or family room?

Depending on your climate, a fireplace might be a great way to add warmth and interest to your living space. Even if your location is warm year-round, you can always add a faux fireplace or nonfunctioning fireplace as part of your decor. There are many options to choose from, so be sure to check them out. A wood-burning fireplace gives an authentic experience, though a gas one still emits heat without the mess. A double-sided or corner unit strays from the ordinary, or you can go with a wood stove fireplace if you're looking for a piece of art. If you want a contemporary touch, veer away from the traditional wood or tile mantel by going with stone, concrete or metal instead.

What kind of built-ins should I add to my living room?

Although it might not seem glamorous, having enough storage is instrumental when it comes to keeping the room organised and practical. Built-in bookcases, shelves and cabinets are a great way to add hidden, functional storage for all the knickknacks you accumulate. Movie and gaming buffs will love a custom entertainment centre, with enough cabinets for movies, speakers and electronic accessories; you can even create a media room with a projector and lounge chairs! If you still have room to spare, include a booth for homework or craft projects.

How do I decorate my home interiors?

When it comes to decorating, neutrals are always the safe option because they look good and never go out of style. They also give any artwork you hang enough breathing space. If you do want to try out a bolder colour scheme, add colour with walls and accessories. That way, if you get sick of a colour, you can quickly repaint the walls and find new knickknacks, instead of having to replace your sofas every time trends change. Popular colours include blue, green and grey, but don't be afraid to try bright colours like red or yellow, even if it's just on an accent wall. Finally, make sure there is plenty of light. Recessed or track lighting are great ways to hit every corner — better yet, add more natural light by installing additional windows or a skylight.