Sources: Blue Rug; Sofa; Coffee Table; Lantern Pendant; Candlesticks; Chairs
Disclaimer: Some of the links below contain affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through the links. I have used and love all of the items listed below.
I’m excited to share the thought process behind our coastal living room design. I made some big changes to our living room a few years back after taking a design course. It was previously my least favorite room in the house and now it’s my favorite! Read on for all the details.
Timeless Design and Color Scheme
I love a timeless design and color scheme, and that’s precisely the aesthetic I aimed for in this space. The room is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Simply White—my all-time favorite paint color. It strikes the perfect balance between warmth and a fresh, clean feel, creating a welcoming backdrop for the rest of the decor.
When designing a space, I typically start with one standout item that I love—usually a rug or a piece of artwork—and use that as the foundation for the room’s aesthetic. In this case, I chose a beautiful blue textured rug from Pottery Barn. It adds just the right amount of texture and a lovely pop of color, enriching the overall design.
Sources: Blue Rug; Sofa; Coffee Table; Lantern Pendant; Candlesticks; Chairs
The centerpiece of the room is the Pottery Barn York sofa. I’m drawn to its modern look, particularly the sloped arms, which provide a stylish touch without sacrificing comfort. With four kids, durability is a must, and this sofa has proven to be incredibly comfortable and resilient.
For the coffee table, I opted for an affordable piece that beautifully complements the room. This table brings in natural wood tones, echoing the antique pieces I have scattered throughout the space. It also adds a lovely texture that lends a subtle coastal touch to the decor. Priced at under $200, it’s an excellent option that would suit a variety of styles.
Lighting
I nearly killed my husband trying to find a light fixture for this room. After several attempts, I found exactly what I was looking for. This one is oversized but not overwhelming and achieves the coastal traditional look I was going for. It adds a lovely focal point to the room and highlights the tall ceilings. I’ve linked it HERE.
By focusing on timeless elements and a cohesive color palette, I’ve created a living room that feels both inviting and stylish. Each piece was thoughtfully selected to contribute to the overall aesthetic while ensuring the space remains practical for everyday living. I hope my choices inspire you to create your own timeless sanctuary! Below are a few additional tips to create the living room of your dreams, along with links to some of the pieces you see here and a few affordable dupes.
5 Tips for Living Rooms
- Avoid placing your sofa against the wall. This simple adjustment creates a more conversational space, allowing people to walk around freely and engage more easily. While it may not always be feasible, moving your sofa off the wall can significantly enhance the room’s flow and connectivity.
- Design for Conversation. Your layout should encourage interaction. Aim to create a setup where people can easily face one another. One of my favorite configurations is having a sofa paired with two chairs across from it. This arrangement not only promotes conversation but also adds a balanced aesthetic. If you prefer a more formal look, consider placing another sofa across from the main one
- Choose the Right Rug. A well-placed rug can tie your living room together. Ideally, your rug should accommodate all major furniture pieces, ensuring that at least two legs of each piece (sofa, chairs, coffee table) rest on it. This grounding effect helps define the space and adds warmth and texture to the room.
- Incorporate Lighting Strategically. Lighting plays a crucial role in defining the mood of your living room. Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider using floor lamps, table lamps, and overhead fixtures to provide ample light for different activities. Position lamps near seating areas for reading or socializing, and don’t forget to add dimmers for adjustable brightness.
- Add Personal Touches. Make your living room feel like home by incorporating personal touches. Decorate with family photos, artwork, or travel souvenirs that reflect your personality and interests. This is the difference between a colder home that looks like everything was purchased off Amazon versus a space that creates a sense of warmth and belonging.
Sources: Blue Rug; Sofa; Coffee Table; Lantern Pendant; Candlesticks; Chairs
