Although we are all familiar with the term, the word “relax” can invoke different ideas. Even though some might connect it with the sweet solace of silence, others can associate the same concept with listening to soothing music or taking a nap while being wrapped in a comforting blanket.
How you design your living room space ultimately depends on the definition of the word “relax” you choose. A person interested in listening to music and watching movies will probably invest in a high-quality audio system and streaming amplifier, doing their best to transform their living room into a home theatre. Alternatively, someone who is more into books will most likely pull up a rocking chair and a matching coffee table to create the most comfortable reading nook possible.
This is why turning your living room into the most relaxing place should start with the idea. You need to define your needs, select the best ways to address them and create a well-thought-out plan regarding incorporating the desired changes.
Here is a guide that outlines every step of this process.
Define What Relaxation Means to You
The first step in turning your living room into a relaxing place is understanding what relaxation means to you. This is the most important step since it will determine all the other decisions you make down the line.
One way to do it is by creating a list of all the activities that make you feel at ease and calm. What activities do you enjoy that make you feel relaxed? What sounds, smells, and sights help you unwind? Perhaps you feel that all stress inside you evaporates when you see a gentle sound of a fireplace burning while sitting on a beautiful floor and sipping on yerba mate?
Make a list of all these things and use it as your inspiration when decorating and furnishing your living room.
You should also think about things that make you feel warm inside or the spaces that you love to be in. Once you have this list, it will be easier for you to find the right design solutions that will support the lifestyle you desire.
Assess Your Needs
Now that you know what relaxation means to you, it’s time to consider your specific needs. What do you want to get out of your living room space? Do you want to be able to relax and escape the noise and stress of the outside world? Or do you want to use it as a multipurpose space for working, relaxing and spending time with family and friends?
Once you establish what you want, it will be easier to select the right furniture pieces and accessories. For example, if you want to watch movies, you will need a TV and possibly a couch or armchairs that are comfortable enough for extended periods of sitting. If you want to read books, you may want to invest in a comfortable chair or sofa and a side table for your drinks and snacks.
Living Room design of a cozy and welcoming place
Assess the Layout of Your Living Room
Now you need to take a look at your living room and measure the space you have available. This is important because it will help you determine which furniture pieces and accessories you can use to create a relaxing environment. While you might want to put a lot of stuff into your living room, doing so will only make the space look cluttered and unorganized.
If you have a small living room, using a large sectional as your main piece of furniture may not be the best idea. Similarly, opting for heavy drapes instead of light-coloured curtains may make the space feel cramped and uncomfortable.
When choosing furniture for your living room, you might want to go for pieces that are comfortable and provide plenty of space to relax. For example, ottomans and floor cushions are great for creating extra seating or lounging spaces.
Just think about what feels right and fits your list of needs, and determine how it will combine with other items you want to place in your room. If the concept seems plausible to pull off, now is the time to create a list of things you need to make it happen.
Make a List of the Things You Need
After assessing the layout of your living room and determining what activities you want to do in it, it’s time to make a list of the furniture and accessories you need. This list should include everything from the basics, such as a couch or coffee table, to more specific items, like an audio system or a bookcase.
Once you have this list, you can start shopping for the right pieces. However, keep in mind that not everything needs to be purchased new. There are often great deals to be found at second-hand stores, so don’t be afraid to explore your options.
Finally, once you have all the furniture and accessories in place, take some time to decorate your living room with things that make you feel relaxed and comfortable. One of the best ways to create a relaxing atmosphere is by adding natural elements like plants.
If you don’t have a lot of space in your living room, try using potted plants or choose smaller varieties that don’t take up too much room. You can also hang pictures with natural landscapes or beach scenes to bring the outdoors in.
In the same vein, hanging calming artwork can help create a more relaxed environment. Look for pieces that feature soft colors, peaceful scenes, or minimalist designs. You can also use window treatments, wall decals, or tapestries to achieve the same effect.
How can I make my living room more relaxing?
Besides the tips above, check the advice from the experts. A soothing ambiance may be created in your living room by combining several elements like lighting, colors, furniture placement, and decor. Here are some suggestions for your living room:
1. Pick soothing hues: Go for calming hues like soft neutrals, cool blues, soft greens, or warm earth tones. These hues might contribute to the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Lighting: Combine artificial and natural lighting. Keep drapes or blinds open during the day to let in some natural light. To create a nice ambiance in the evening, choose warm, soft lighting with dimmers or table lamps.
3. Simplify and declutter: Remove any clutter and extra objects. A neat environment encourages rest and serenity. Think about arranging objects on shelves or in storage bins.
4. Comfy seats: Make an investment in cozy seating options like plush sofas or armchairs with plush cushions. For added comfort, add blankets and throw pillows.
5. Use natural elements: Add plants in pots, fresh flowers, or a tiny indoor fountain to your living area. These components can help you feel calmer and more in one with nature.
6. Background music or ambient noises, such as natural sounds or instrumental music, might help you relax. This may contribute to the calming effect.
7. Scented candles or diffusers: Make use of scented candles or essential oil diffusers that have calming scents like vanilla, lavender, or chamomile. These aromas may encourage rest and a tranquil atmosphere.
Always keep in mind that the secret is to design a room that expresses your particular style and fosters a serene environment. Try out various combinations until you find the one that makes your living space the ideal place for you to unwind.
Conclusion
If you are the type of person who likes to spend most of their time in your living room, it’s crucial that you make this space feel as cozy and welcoming as possible. Doing this is not only going to improve your state of mind, but also your overall well-being.
It is also important that you realize that there are no correct or incorrect ways to achieve this. The key is to find what works best for you and go with it. This is the best way to ensure that your living room becomes a place you want to be in all the time.
