Americans spent about 62% of their time at home in 2020, up from 52% the year prior. No matter how much time you’re spending at home these days, you likely want it to be a sanctuary — particularly your living room where most of the relaxation happens. A lackluster, outdated living room, however, can quickly kill the vibe. Fortunately, updating your living room doesn’t have to be expensive. A mix of style and comfort can be achieved by paying attention to a few key areas.
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Refresh your lighting
Updating your lighting is a simple step with the power to completely transform the room. In particular, lighting can open up small spaces to make them feel bigger, enhance ambiance, and highlight color schemes. Simply switching around existing lampshades, for example, can give a tired room a fresh feel at no cost. Or, you could spray paint the base of a floor lamp to inject style and color into your living room. If you’re willing to part with a little more cash, consider investing in a new floor lamp with a drum shade which provides soft, ambient, and evenly-distributed lighting. If you’re in need of lighting that’s more targeted and functional (for reading, for example), opt for a stylish fixture that directs light to one sole area.
Revamp your sofa
A boring sofa can be instantly updated with a neutral slipcover that in turn works as a blank canvas for stylish accessoires. For example, rather than just being an afterthought, cushions are a great way to add comfort and depth to your sofa. Opt for cushions in similar colors to create a harmonious look that still pops. And, if you also want to try out the latest trends in patterns, cushions let you do so without any major commitment. Finally, complete your look with an eye-catching blanket. Not only are blankets another great way of adding color, texture, and style, but they can also make your sofa more cosy and inviting. Thick, plush blankets in darker tones are ideal for the cold winter months, while mid-weight blankets in lighter shades and pretty patterns are just right for summer.
Low-maintenance plants
Indoor plants add more than just color, life, and energy to your space, they also have health benefits. A study in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, for example, found house plants can make you feel less stressed and more at rest, comfortable, and natural. However, plants can be difficult to care for, especially when your time’s limited. Low-maintenance plants are therefore ideal. Succulents, in particular, can instantly brighten the room without needing a lot of care and attention. All they need is sunlight and a little water once in a while to thrive.
Updating your living room doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming — even if you’re aiming for a luxurious look. By refreshing your lighting, revamping your sofa, and opting for low-maintenance plants, you can breathe new life into your living room.
