After the second fallout of the Delta Variant amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic in mid 2021, our team working from home, and our client in quarantine, SDA Architects conceived Japandi Home. The initial brief for the renovation of this pool house was for its interior to have an "immediate sense of serenity" that roused the feeling of being peaceful. Influenced by loneliness and angst during quarantine, SDA Architects explored themes of escapism and empathy which led to a “Japandi” style concept design – the nexus between “Scandinavian functionality” and “Japanese rustic minimalism” to invoke feelings of “art, nature and simplicity.” This merging of styles forms the perfect amalgamation of both function and form, centred on clean lines, bright spaces and light colours. Grounded by its emotional weight, poetic lyricism, and relaxed atmosphere; Japandi Home aesthetics focus on simplicity, natural elements, and comfort; minimalism that is both aesthetically pleasing yet highly functional. Japandi Home places special emphasis on sustainability through use of raw furnishings and a rejection of the one-time-use culture we have embraced for numerous decades. A plethora of natural materials, muted colours, clean lines and minimal, yet-well-curated furnishings have been employed to showcase beautiful craftsmanship – quality handmade pieces over quantitative throwaway items. A neutral colour palette compliments the soft and hard furnishings within, allowing the timeless pieces to breath and speak for themselves. These calming, tranquil and peaceful colours have been chosen so when accent colours are incorporated, they are done so in a meaningful yet subtle way. Japandi home isn’t sparse – it’s intentional. The integrated storage throughout – from the kitchen, to dining buffet, linen cupboard, window seat, entertainment unit, bed ensemble and walk-in wardrobe are key to reducing clutter and maintaining the zen-like sense of calm created by these clean lines and open spaces. The Scandinavian concept of “hygge” refers to the idea that ones home is your cosy sanctuary. Similarly, this ideology has been fused with the Japanese notion of “wabi-sabi”; the idea that there is beauty in imperfection. Hence, the marriage of these design styles is both founded on minimalism and comfort; easy-going yet sophisticated. Conversely, whilst Japanese styles can be considered “sleek” and Scandinavian, “rustic”, the richness of the Japanese neutral colour palette aids in preventing the stark, crisp palette of Scandinavian styles from feeling cold and clinical. Japandi Home’s introspective essence can ultimately be considered quite timely for the pandemic and was the quintessential lockdown project our team needed.

Bow, NH

New England Design Elements

Mid-sized scandinavian open concept living room in Manchester with white walls, light hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, a tile fireplace surround, a concealed tv, white floor, wood and decorative wall panelling.

Columbus Square

Kennedy Cole Interior Design

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary open concept living room in Orange County with a music area, grey walls, dark hardwood floors, brown floor, exposed beam and wallpaper.

Modern Minimalistic Living Room

Deni + Dove Interiors

This is an example of a modern living room in New York with white walls, dark hardwood floors, a stone fireplace surround and panelled walls.

Colourful Interior for a Period Home

Ivywell Interiors | Bristol

This bay-fronted living room was transformedww thanks to a new bold colour scheme. We added panelling to create depth with a deep blue on the walls and tonal grey to lower the tall ceilings and create a more intimate setting. The furniture was replaced with bespoke sofa and fabric from British sofa maker William Yeoward. The gas fireplace was also replaced and curtains lined with a border to give them a new lease of life.

Maida Vale in Focus: Realization Through the Lens

Studio 212 ltd

Maida Vale Apartment in Photos: A Visual Journey Tucked away in the serene enclave of Maida Vale, London, lies an apartment that stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of eclectic modern design and traditional elegance, masterfully brought to life by Jolanta Cajzer of Studio 212. This transformative journey from a conventional space to a breathtaking interior is vividly captured through the lens of the acclaimed photographer, Tom Kurek, and further accentuated by the vibrant artworks of Kris Cieslak. The apartment's architectural canvas showcases tall ceilings and a layout that features two cozy bedrooms alongside a lively, light-infused living room. The design ethos, carefully curated by Jolanta Cajzer, revolves around the infusion of bright colors and the strategic placement of mirrors. This thoughtful combination not only magnifies the sense of space but also bathes the apartment in a natural light that highlights the meticulous attention to detail in every corner. Furniture selections strike a perfect harmony between the vivacity of modern styles and the grace of classic elegance. Artworks in bold hues stand in conversation with timeless timber and leather, creating a rich tapestry of textures and styles. The inclusion of soft, plush furnishings, characterized by their modern lines and chic curves, adds a layer of comfort and contemporary flair, inviting residents and guests alike into a warm embrace of stylish living. Central to the living space, Kris Cieslak's artworks emerge as focal points of colour and emotion, bridging the gap between the tangible and the imaginative. Featured prominently in both the living room and bedroom, these paintings inject a dynamic vibrancy into the apartment, mirroring the life and energy of Maida Vale itself. The art pieces not only complement the interior design but also narrate a story of inspiration and creativity, making the apartment a living gallery of modern artistry. Photographed with an eye for detail and a sense of spatial harmony, Tom Kurek's images capture the essence of the Maida Vale apartment. Each photograph is a window into a world where design, art, and light converge to create an ambience that is both visually stunning and deeply comforting. This Maida Vale apartment is more than just a living space; it's a showcase of how contemporary design, when intertwined with artistic expression and captured through skilled photography, can create a home that is both a sanctuary and a source of inspiration. It stands as a beacon of style, functionality, and artistic collaboration, offering a warm welcome to all who enter. Hashtags: #JolantaCajzerDesign #TomKurekPhotography #KrisCieslakArt #EclecticModern #MaidaValeStyle #LondonInteriors #BrightAndBold #MirrorMagic #SpaceEnhancement #ModernMeetsTraditional #VibrantLivingRoom #CozyBedrooms #ArtInDesign #DesignTransformation #UrbanChic #ClassicElegance #ContemporaryFlair #StylishLiving #TrendyInteriors #LuxuryHomesLondon

Appartement - Philippe Auguste - Paris 11

CLAAAC - architecture intérieure et décoration

Ce grand appartement familial haussmannien est situé dans le 11ème arrondissement de Paris. Nous avons repensé le plan existant afin d'ouvrir la cuisine vers la pièce à vivre et offrir une sensation d'espace à nos clients. Nous avons modernisé les espaces de vie de la famille pour apporter une touche plus contemporaine à cet appartement classique, tout en gardant les codes charmants de l'haussmannien: moulures au plafond, parquet point de Hongrie, belles hauteurs...

A new family home

Guenther Designs & Consulting LLC

Another view of the great room overlooking the dining and kitchen area.
Photo of a mid-sized beach style open concept living room in Other with grey walls, medium hardwood floors, brown floor, exposed beam and planked wall panelling.

Hulls House

Create Perfect

Photo of a mid-sized country formal enclosed living room in Gloucestershire with green walls, dark hardwood floors, a standard fireplace, a plaster fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv, brown floor and panelled walls.

Mid-Mod Home Design

Jenna Morley Interiors

Inspiration for a mid-sized midcentury living room in Sacramento with brown walls, light hardwood floors, a wood fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv, brown floor, wood and panelled walls.

Boho Coastal

All About You - Ann & Angelo Cane

Inspiration for a mid-sized beach style open concept living room in Orlando with blue walls, vinyl floors, a wall-mounted tv, brown floor, timber and wallpaper.

The Ranch House in Almaden Valley

Carmit Oron Interior Design

Inspiration for a large country enclosed living room in San Francisco with a library, white walls, dark hardwood floors, exposed beam and planked wall panelling.

Oaklawn

Robert Frank Interiors

Large transitional formal enclosed living room in Los Angeles with beige walls, carpet, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace surround, no tv, beige floor, exposed beam and wallpaper.

Paddington Exchange, Residents Lounge

Amongst Things Ltd

The experience was designed to begin as residents approach the development, we were asked to evoke the Art Deco history of local Paddington Station which starts with a contrast chevron patterned floor leading residents through the entrance. This architectural statement becomes a bold focal point, complementing the scale of the lobbies double height spaces. Brass metal work is layered throughout the space, adding touches of luxury, en-keeping with the development. This starts on entry, announcing ‘Paddington Exchange’ inset within the floor. Subtle and contemporary vertical polished plaster detailing also accentuates the double-height arrival points . A series of black and bronze pendant lights sit in a crossed pattern to mirror the playful flooring. The central concierge desk has curves referencing Art Deco architecture, as well as elements of train and automobile design. Completed at HLM Architects

Modern Mid Century Apartment

Magy Interiors LLC

This is an example of a midcentury open concept living room in Other with concrete floors, a freestanding tv, grey floor and panelled walls.

Glen Ellen Residence

Knock Architecture and Design

Photo of a mid-sized midcentury open concept living room in San Francisco with concrete floors, a two-sided fireplace, a tile fireplace surround, grey floor, wood and wood walls.

The Perfectly Imperfect Farmhouse

GLDESIGN

Sometimes what you’re looking for is right in your own backyard. This is what our Darien Reno Project homeowners decided as we launched into a full house renovation beginning in 2017. The project lasted about one year and took the home from 2700 to 4000 square feet.

Minimalist Lux

Nikki Levy Interiors

Beautiful and interesting are a perfect combination
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary formal open concept living room in Miami with white walls, porcelain floors, white floor, coffered and wood walls.

Robinhood Residence

Clark Richardson Architects

This room, housing and elegant piano also functions as a guest room. The built in couch, turns into a bed with ease.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary enclosed living room in Austin with white walls, beige floor, timber, planked wall panelling, a library and light hardwood floors.

Flagstaff House

Centre Sky Architecture Ltd

This unique project has heavy Asian influences due to the owner’s strong connection to Indonesia, along with a Mountain West flare creating a unique and rustic contemporary composition. This mountain contemporary residence is tucked into a mature ponderosa forest in the beautiful high desert of Flagstaff, Arizona. The site was instrumental on the development of our form and structure in early design. The 60 to 100 foot towering ponderosas on the site heavily impacted the location and form of the structure. The Asian influence combined with the vertical forms of the existing ponderosa forest led to the Flagstaff House trending towards a horizontal theme.

All Wall Treatments Living Room Design Photos

A living room, often referred to as a lounge room in Australia and New Zealand, is the hub of the home. If you only have one living room in the house, it’s likely to serve multiple purposes: be it a place to watch TV, play games, spend quality time with family or hang out with friends. If you have the luxury of two living areas, one is usually a formal living room or lounge room, reserved for reading, relaxing and entertaining. A successful living room design is inviting, has enough seating for the whole clan – a comfortable couch is a must – and encourages conversation. Browse photos on Houzz for living room layouts, furniture and decor, and strike up a conversation with the interior designers or architects of your favourite picks. For even more living room ideas, check out the Stories section on Houzz.

Which living room layouts will work best for you?

Every living area will have design challenges. A long, narrow lounge room, for example, risks looking like a hallway if furniture is lined up against the walls. Instead, opt for small furniture items, like a cosy two-seater couch, and create various focal points throughout the space. In square living rooms, a symmetrical layout encourages a formal setting. Place seating on either side of the room, with a focal point in the middle to pull the room together. For a truly intimate vibe, replace your couch with some occasional chairs positioned around a coffee table or ottoman. This will make the main focus conversation. An open-plan home – one where the lines are blurred between kitchen, dining and living – may require a layout that focuses on definition. You’ll want to make sure furniture doesn’t block the flow between spaces, and instead use something like an area rug to create zones.

How can you decorate your living room?

The living room can be a place in which to show off your personality, but if you want a timeless living room scheme, stick to neutral walls, couches and ottomans. Colour can be added through accessories, and is a lot more interchangeable! Rugs, cushions and throws are great for adding colour, while mirrors, lamps and ceiling lights will set the mood. Make your living room unique by including family heirlooms and photos. For a polished look, try creating a coffee table vignette – you could use books as pedestals or group items together on a tray. Try adding a vase, a mixture of round and rectangular objects and some books.

What are some small living room ideas?

Small living room designs can be tricky to work with, but aren’t doomed to fail. Often, you just have to get creative with furniture. An open-back chaise can create a sense of spaciousness, while small side tables paired together can substitute a coffee table. Even better, an ottoman can be used as a footrest, coffee table or extra seating. Big furniture items like the couch are best kept in light colours, and if there’s room for a coffee table, a glass-top one is best. If you have two spaces in one – perhaps your living room sits in front of a single-wall kitchen – make sure they are connected by decor, colour and style. For definition, just add area rugs, or use your couch as a dividing wall. It’s worth having a few furniture pieces, whether a bookshelf, couch or entertainment unit, in the same colour as the walls, too, so they blend into the room and visually expand the space.

Is open-plan living for you?

Today’s homes often embrace open-plan living, whereby the living room runs off the kitchen and/or dining areas. Open-plan living allows greater functionality, but can risk creating a vast, soulless space if not done right. To avoid a cavernous feel in an open-plan design, define areas with furniture, rugs and lighting, or consider using a wall divider. Also be sure to keep flooring, lighting and materials consistent throughout, for cohesiveness. Noise may be an issue – someone banging pots and pans while you’re watching TV, for example – so include lots of soft furnishings, such as rugs, curtains and couches to help absorb the noise. You will also need to factor in plenty of storage, so mess is kept at bay.