Photo of a modern open concept living room in Denver with medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and wood.

Aspen Red Mountain Remodel

Akasha Design Studio

David O. Marlow
Design ideas for a large modern formal open concept living room in Denver with white walls, light hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, no tv and beige floor.

Super Wide Plank Hardwoods

State Of The Art Wood Floor Gallery Corp

Design ideas for a large contemporary formal open concept living room in New York with beige walls, light hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround and beige floor.

Olana Drive

Hills & Grant

photo: Lisa Petrole
Photo of a large modern open concept living room in San Francisco with a home bar, white walls, porcelain floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround and a wall-mounted tv.

Sorrento House Living Room

Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors

"This is an example of one story being told holistically: the architecture and the interior talk to each other - beautifully. Unadorned materials are used inside and out completing the narrative'. Rob Mills Photography Earl Carter

Sf Media Room

MN Builders

Inspiration for a traditional loft-style family room in San Francisco with beige walls, dark hardwood floors, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and a ribbon fireplace.

The Last House

David Small Designs

Photo of a contemporary formal enclosed living room in Toronto with light hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and beige floor.

North Rim Contemporary

Norman Building & Design

A view of the home's great room with wrapping windows to offer views toward the Cascade Mountain range. The gas ribbon of fire firebox provides drama to the polished concrete surround

Tarrytown Modern

Danze & Davis Architects, Inc.

Ana Swanson
Large modern open concept family room in Austin with grey walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround and a wall-mounted tv.

East Plains Drive

Maric Homes & Renovations

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary open concept living room in Other with beige walls, light hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a wall-mounted tv, a concrete fireplace surround and beige floor.

The Canyons, Home 401

Kevin B Howard Architects, AIA

The living room opens to the edge of the Coronado National Forest. The boundary between interior and exterior is blurred by the continuation of the tongue and groove ceiling finish. Dominique Vorillon Photography

Port Street Contemporary

Michael Fullen Design Group

Design ideas for a contemporary family room in Orange County with beige walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace and a concrete fireplace surround.

Mill Valley Residence

Wright Architecture

Nestled in the redwoods, a short walk from downtown, this home embraces both it’s proximity to town life and nature. Mid-century modern detailing and a minimalist California vibe come together in this special place.

Tall Tree

Emerge Design, Inc.

Contemporary formal enclosed living room in Vancouver with white walls, light hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, no tv and beige floor.

Contemporary Living Room

Expansive contemporary open concept living room in Phoenix with beige walls, medium hardwood floors, a concrete fireplace surround, brown floor, a wall-mounted tv and a ribbon fireplace.

Trigg Beach House

David Wilkes Design

Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style open concept living room in Perth with porcelain floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv, white walls and white floor.

DaVinci Design Gallery

Sierra Hearth & Home

Mid-sized contemporary formal enclosed living room in Sacramento with beige walls, light hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, no tv and beige floor.

2015 Midwest Home Luxury Home #1 - Denali Custom Homes

Spacecrafting / Architectural Photography

Builder: Denali Custom Homes - Architectural Designer: Alexander Design Group - Interior Designer: Studio M Interiors - Photo: Spacecrafting Photography

Shoreclub Residence

Tammara Stroud Design

This is an example of a large modern open concept living room in Seattle with white walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and brown floor.

Links at Lionsgate

Alan Karlin Design

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary formal open concept living room in Kansas City with a ribbon fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, grey walls, dark hardwood floors and a wall-mounted tv.

Living Design Ideas with a Ribbon Fireplace and a Concrete Fireplace Surround

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.