5 Rules For The Perfect Living Room
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Whether you are just hanging out with your roommate or are having people over, your apartment living room is an essential space. It is likely where you will spend most of your time while in your apartment, so it is important that the space is perfect for hanging out in.
1. Avoid common furniture mistakes
One of the most common living room mistakes is messing up the furniture. This is especially true when it comes to buying too much furniture. Overcrowding the room with furniture makes the room more difficult to navigate since you constantly have to maneuver around furniture. In general, you should have at least three feet of walking space around your furniture area. Also, avoid blocking entryways with your furniture in case of an emergency. Make sure you measure the dimensions of the living room before purchasing furniture so that the space is not overcrowded.
Avoid placing all of your furniture against the walls. Doing so will leave an awkward space in the middle of the room. Instead, place furniture strategically in the middle. Before buying furniture, see if the store has an online feature where you can see how the furniture will look so you can plan where each piece will go. Having some pieces against the wall is okay, but most should be in the center.
2. Use a variety of light sources
While lighting is essential, having too much light or the wrong lighting can make the room seem harsh. If you are having guests over, you definitely need lighting that gives off a warm ambiance. This can be done by layering your lighting by using a variety of light sources. Overhead lighting can be harsh, so use sources such as candles, wall sconces, floor lamps, table lamps, and bookshelf accent lights. Keep in mind that your light sources need power, so if they need to be plugged in, make sure you put them near outlets so you and your guests will not trip over the cords. Check with your landlord to see if you are allowed to light candles. If so, buy candles that fit with the theme of the room. If you have windows, make use of natural light when the sun is out.
3. Add a pop of color
Adding a pop of color can liven up your living room, especially if you constantly have guests over. Even if you are not allowed to paint your walls because of your leasing contract, there are other ways to add color. If you are allowed to, go ahead and paint your walls. Having colorful furniture or pillows for your couches and chairs can add a bit of color without it being overwhelming. You can also bring in different colorful plants and flowers to add a natural touch. Add artwork and photos to the walls, making sure that you use hanging methods that will not damage the walls. Use area rugs for a fun way to make your floors more colorful. If you are allowed to have candles, choose colorful candles to help make your room smell good and be even more colorful. Choose a variety of colorful furniture pieces to help keep things interesting.
4. Make the space personal
Even if you live with a roommate or two, you can add a personal touch to your communal living room. Each of you can add a photo in a frame or artwork that means something to each person. Have each person be responsible for one piece of furniture, which can be fun if they have something from their hometown that works. When you have guests over, they may comment on specific aspects of the room and telling to stories behind these pieces can make for great conversation. If you do not have guests over, you still want the space to be comfortable for each person living there, so having a personal touch can make this happen.
5. Make the living room livable
The point of the living room is to have a space to live in and be comfortable in. Make sure the space is a place you and your roommates love being in. This can be done by making the space comfortable yet functional. Make the room a space that you and your roommates love by allowing everyone to add personal aspects and by adding little pops of color throughout the room. The room needs to be easy to move around while being a space that is easy to hold conversations in. Add a TV and entertainment system if you want to use this space as somewhere to relax and get away from the stresses of school for a bit.
By following the rules above, you will ensure that your living space is truly a place you, your roommates, and any guests you have over enjoy spending time in.
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