Formal open concept living room with grey walls, carpet, a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace surround, grey floor, timber and planked wall panelling.

The Cabin- Elk Two

BENNEFIELD Construction Ltd.

This space is one of several cabins built lakefront for some very special clients.
Inspiration for a mid-sized modern loft-style living room in Other with a home bar, light hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, a tile fireplace surround, a built-in media wall, exposed beam and planked wall panelling.

Top Honors & Award Winners from Pineapple House - ASID Design Excellence Winners

Pineapple House Interior Design

In this living room in a lake house renovation, Pineapple House replaces its old, low, painted trusses with stained, hickory trusses. They change the rooms' sheetrock walls into 10” nickel-joint wood walls and add transoms over the sliding glass doors to gain light and height. They cover the fireplace surround with stained wood and gain height by running the stained planks all the way up the 20’ shaft. On the left of fireplace, they add 8’ tall, double wooden doors and create a new entry into the master . On the right of fireplace, they balance the new master doors with a built-in audio-visual cabinet with wire mesh door fronts. Scott Moore Photography

Great Room In Modern Mountain Home

Germania Construction

The great room in this home offers a comfortable area to relax, eat, and gather. With views, easy access to the outdoor porch, and a stone surround fireplace, it's easy to see how this central hub of the home draws family and friends together.

Daniel Island Residence 1

Architrave

Tripp Smith
Photo of a mid-sized traditional enclosed family room in Charleston with brown walls, light hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace surround, a freestanding tv, brown floor, a library and planked wall panelling.

Living Room With Exposed Beams And Floor To Ceiling Windows

Germania Construction

Balancing the huge windows with a cozy fireplace and bookshelves, this living room offers plenty of seating for casual evenings in or a full party.
This is an example of a large transitional open concept living room in Salt Lake City with white walls, medium hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace surround, a concealed tv, exposed beam and planked wall panelling.

2373 CL

Weaver Custom Homes

Design ideas for a formal open concept living room with grey walls, carpet, a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace surround, grey floor, timber and planked wall panelling.

Living Design Ideas with Planked Wall Panelling

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.