The perfect design can truly make or break a living space. These contemporary living room ideas will help to get you started on your renovation journey.
First of all, if you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of a new design, take a deep breath. You are in exactly the right spot to get started!
We have got some beautiful living room concepts to show you. And it is not a huge list, so that makes decisions easier.
Now, before we start looking at the ideas, you need to ask yourself one question : How do you want the room to feel? Because the answer to that question will help to determine what direction your contemporary design should go in.
1. Charcoal Themes
I have to say, the most popular color scheme I’m seeing in today’s living rooms is hands down grey and charcoal. It’s such a versatile foundation!
You’ll often see it beautifully complemented by pops of white, blue, or even green. It’s a look that just works and feels so current.
2. Splashes of Red
Let’s talk about red. It’s such a strong and loud color, isn’t it? But when you use it as an accent, it can bring just the right amount of drama to a cool interior.
Adding these little pops of red is a fantastic way to liven things up without it feeling like too much. I just love it!
3. A Bricked Wall
A brick feature wall can completely change the vibe of a room. It brings in that cool, industrial loft feel that’s so popular right now.
The natural red tone you see in most bricks adds so much warmth to a living room. It’s a game changer, for sure!
4. Tamed Chandeliers
Chandeliers are definitely still a popular choice for living rooms, but we’ve moved on from the super intricate styles of the past.
The teardrops, curls, and crystals are being replaced by simpler, more functional designs. Think of a delicate, lantern-esque feature. Today’s chandeliers are all about being concise and beautiful.
5. Stripped Floors
One of my absolute favorite trends in modern living rooms is stripped floors. It’s all about showcasing that pristine, high-quality timber or hardwood laminate.
To finish the look, you can enhance it with neutral accent rugs or even some ceramic tiles. It makes such a beautiful statement!
6. Natural Lighting and Skylights
There is nothing better than soft, natural light, and you can open up your living space so much by incorporating wide windows and skylights. It makes a world of difference. Perfection!
7. Sleek Modern Fireplaces
Remember those large, cumbersome fireplaces? Well, they’re being replaced with sleek and clean modern versions.
This trend is all about refined lines and a more minimalist look that still brings all the cozy vibes.
8. Frameless Gallery
I’m seeing this everywhere! Heavy frames are out, and frameless galleries are definitely in.
This approach really brings the focus back to your photo. A setup like this looks so clean and modern.
9. Shades of White
You really can’t go wrong with white living rooms. They are classic, always current, and still a top preference for so many people.
When you’re thinking about repainting, consider a white color scheme. Or, you could introduce white with something like your leather upholstery for a crisp, clean look.
10. Contemporary Wall Features
This is such a cool idea! An inbuilt geometric feature wall creates an instant modern focal point inside your living space.
It adds so much architectural interest and character without adding clutter. Absolutely stunning!
11. Dark Walls
If you really want to create a dramatic statement, think about a darker feature wall.
Colors like charcoal, navy, grey, or even black can have such a huge impact and make a space feel so cozy and sophisticated.
12. Bursts of Lemon
Charming lemon accents are a wonderful trick to save a room from looking dull. The key is to keep the rest of your decor muted and neutral.
That way, the yellow really pops and you get the best effect. It’s so cheerful!
13. A Bit of the Sea
I love bringing refreshing ocean tones into a space. Touches of teals, marine, and turquoise can make a room feel so calm and serene.
It’s like a little escape to the coast right in your living room.
14. Horizontal Lines
Here’s a great designer trick! You can create a more spacious-looking living room just by highlighting the horizontal lines.
It’s a simple concept that can have a really big visual payoff, making the room feel wider and more open.
15. Rustic Inspiration
I’m a big fan of adding a rustic feature to living room decor. It hints at a country chic aesthetic that is so warm and inviting.
This unique rustic chandelier, for instance, is such a welcome change from the typical crystal alternatives. I just love the modern feel it brings!
16. Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is a fantastic way to highlight different interest spots in your room.
By implementing this type of lighting, you can draw attention to art, architectural details, or cozy corners, creating layers of light and ambiance.
17. DressedUp ceilings
Floors and walls get so much attention, but don’t forget the ceiling! Why not create a sensational ceiling feature?
It’s an unexpected way to make a striking statement and draw the eye upward, making the whole room feel grander.
18. Neutral Curtains
When it comes to modern living room curtains, the main theme is solid and muted colors.
Heavy patterns and bright shades have taken a backseat to a more subtle, sophisticated look that complements the room rather than competes with it.
19. Something Old
I always encourage my clients to add pieces with history and character. It gives so much depth and personality to a contemporary living space and keeps it from feeling sterile.
It’s those unique finds that really tell a story.
20. A Touch of Purple
Never underestimate the power of purple! It’s a color that instantly adds an opulent and regal touch to an otherwise neutral room.
Even a small amount in a pillow or a throw can make the whole space feel more luxurious.
21. Greys and Blues
The muted tones of grey and blue have become so popular in modern interior design, and for good reason! They are incredibly versatile by nature.
This cool color palette is a perfect compliment for the themes of both industrial and minimalist spaces.
22. Print Clash
When it comes to your soft furnishings, don’t be afraid to clash some prints! As long as they are in similar color palettes, it creates a visually interesting statement that looks intentional and chic.
It’s such a great way to add personality.
23. Glass Walls
If you have the opportunity, opening up your space with a glass wall window display is a total showstopper.
It blurs the line between inside and out and floods the room with natural light. Talk about breathtaking!
24. Shelved Wall
Walls that double as storage space are a very popular solution, especially in apartments and smaller homes.
The trick is to keep the lines clean and keep the clutter out to maintain that sleek, modern look.
25. Comfortable Sofas
These days, those huge leather sofas and formal French settees are being taken over by the more sensible and comfortable modular sofa. They are so practical!
The most popular colors I’m seeing are white, black, greys, blues, and rich charcoal shades.
26. Bigger Windows
Modern living rooms are being made so much more spacious with larger, wider windows.
When you focus on clean lines and clear panes, it creates a timeless and classic appeal that will never go out of style.
27. Black Accents
Using black accents throughout a room is a sure-fire way to create a dramatic statement. It’s a classic for a reason.
Black provides an elegant and timeless appeal that grounds a space and adds a touch of sophistication.
28. Muted Art
Conversational art pieces are such a great decor choice for the living room. My recommendation is to select pieces that are more interpretative and calming.
Think about styles like abstract, monochrome, or pieces with hushed colors to create a serene atmosphere.
29. Neutral Rugs
Bare floors and neutral rugs are a beautiful combination, especially when they are paired in modern living spaces.
I always suggest choosing thinner rugs that have muted designs and neutral colors for a really chic and layered look.
30. Earthy Tones
You can always rely on earthy tones to transcend any trend. They are timeless!
Try incorporating whites, greys, browns, blues, and greens throughout your interior design for a look that feels grounded and calm.
31. A Green Corner
I have seen a real trend of indoor gardens lately, especially throughout living spaces. It’s a fantastic way to lift monochrome color themes and it also works to freshen the airflow. Win-win!
32. Writings on the Wall
Let your walls do the talking! Adding a printed message can be such a fun and personal touch to a room. It adds character and can be a great conversation starter with guests.
33. Natural Elements
My advice is to stay away from unnatural decors and accents. Natural elements are always the way to go.
Things like coppers, silver, wood, stone, and gold are so elegant and classy, and they bring a wonderful organic texture to a space.
34. Orange Delight
Don’t be shy about using orange! Cheerful shades like corals, apricots, and poppies are such a happy compliment to the neutral tones within your living room. They bring so much life and energy.
35. Wall Decals
Wall decals are such a great alternative to wallpaper or a painted feature wall.
The best part is that they are super easy to remove and change, so you can update your look whenever you feel like it without a huge commitment.
36. Repurposed Pieces
You can give your living room so much character by adding just one or two repurposed items.
It adds a layer of history and charm that you just can’t get with brand new pieces. It’s all about creating a unique and personal space.
37. Fresh Centrepieces
Fresh blooms or even a leafy plant in the center of the room can work wonders.
It injects a bright spot of color and really lifts up the overall mood of the room. It’s an easy touch that makes a big impact.
38. Industrial Lighting
If you’re going for that industrial aesthetic, a more masculine and structured lighting fixture is the perfect finishing touch.
It instantly sets the tone and adds an element of raw, functional design to the space.
39. Minimalist Shelving
With minimalist shelving, the philosophy is simple: the less, the better. Often, you’ll see floating shelves painted to disappear right into the wall.
It’s a great way to create that minimalist statement while still having a spot for a few curated items.
40. Bare Walls
This really proves that you don’t always need to dress up a wall to create a powerful statement.
Sometimes, letting a beautiful wall color and clean architecture speak for itself is the most modern and confident choice you can make.
