Alexander James
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary living room in London with white walls, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and beige floor.

Bedroom

Royal Interior

Inspiration for an asian formal enclosed living room with white walls, painted wood floors, a standard fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround and blue floor.

Lake House V (The Reserve)

MHK Architecture & Planning

This is an example of a country enclosed living room in Other with a home bar, blue walls, light hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and beige floor.

Design Project

Greenwich Redesign

This is an example of a large traditional formal enclosed living room in New York with beige walls, dark hardwood floors, a corner fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, no tv and brown floor.

Portola Valley

Fannie Allen Design

Family Room with large wing chairs, blue leather sofa, custom wool rug. Photos by David Duncan Livingston
This is an example of a large eclectic formal open concept living room in San Francisco with yellow walls, a standard fireplace, a concrete fireplace surround, carpet and blue floor.

Altadore Showhome by Trickle Creek Designer Homes

ICON Stone + Tile

ICON Stone + Tile // wall tile
This is an example of a large country formal open concept living room in Calgary with white walls, light hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, beige floor, a concrete fireplace surround and no tv.

Carlton Way

High End Staging (HES)

Photo of a contemporary living room in Los Angeles with white walls, medium hardwood floors, a standard fireplace and a concrete fireplace surround.

The Estuary House

In Ex Design

Credit: Photography by Nicholas Yarsley Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized beach style living room in Devon with light hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, beige floor, white walls, a concrete fireplace surround and no tv.

Luxury lodges, Brompton Lakes

Inside Story Photography

I photographed these luxury lodges for Brompton Lakes. Tracey Bloxham, Inside Story Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized eclectic enclosed living room in Other with blue walls, light hardwood floors, a wood stove, a freestanding tv and a concrete fireplace surround.

Skandinavisk Vardagsrum

This is an example of a scandinavian enclosed living room in Gothenburg with white walls, light hardwood floors, a wood stove, a concrete fireplace surround, no tv and beige floor.

Decorating With Blue And White Living Design Ideas with 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.