I was browsing through the Style At Home website not too long ago, and came across an article showcasing 10 of their favourite living rooms. Highlights of a multitude of different styles and aesthetics, I've picked my top four. Not only are they interesting, rich in colour and material, and have their own distinct flare, they head in completely the opposite direction of standard and boring.
GIRLY GLAM
All about contrast. What I love about this living space is the use of one or two bright accent colours amongst a sea of neutrals. The hot punches of orange and bright fuchsia literally jump off the page while nestled in amongst the softer palette. Using the pink and orange as the platform feature duo, the designer has woven these throughout the space on the toss pillows, in the artwork, and has even wrapped one completely around the central ottoman. A simple, yet dramatic aesthetic — the artwork is the clincher for me. Instead going for a landscape or other predictable piece, the designer added abstract images of the iconic Chanel perfume bottle. All three pieces work in the surrounding colour palette in a fun and unconventional way.
HOLLYWOOD DRAMA
Apparently inspired by a tuxedo — it's easy to see the influence of crisp, tailored, and masculine styling in this image. The back wall covered completely in black and white framed photography gives this space a hit of geometry and sculpture, and instantly adds a wow factor. Although there's a lot happening in this living space, the use of the monochromatic colour palette keeps it balanced. Using black, white, charcoal, cream, and gold allows the designer to play with various textures and shapes all within the same area. Not to create a space that feels overwhelming. Details like the ribbon looping in the ottoman, and the whimsical design of the nail heads along the bottom of the sofas catch your eye immediately by being paired with the solidness of the black carpet below. This room is sophisticated, yet fun.
MODERN CLASSIC
This next room is neat because it mixes a few contemporary furniture pieces with traditional fabrics, trims, and textiles. Perfect for those who don't want to go too modern, and yet want to get out of the truly traditional aesthetic. The traditional sofa and chairs are offset with the waterfall glass coffee table — something you'd more likely expect to find in a condo perhaps — and brightly patterned toss pillows. Typically, you might see this interior decked out in all creams, whites, linens, and perhaps a bit of earthy brown or taupe — but what I love about this is that the designer chose to mix things up with the addition of conventional patterns done in nonconventional colour combinations. The lush teal and turquoise give this space a rush of moody and soothing inspiration. Something you don't normally expect to find in a softer, more traditional interior.
MODERN ORGANIC
The mix of wood tones, glass, metal, and soft textures are what draw me to this space right off the bat. I would have to say that my own personal design style leans more in this direction. I love the way natural materials play off of one another when layered together in a room. Lovely and strange one-off pieces like the tree trunk side table add interest and charm — especially when paired with the metal and glass coffee table. Forget matching here! Being creative and bringing in unique finds that all work around a more organic theme will make your spaces warmer, edgier, and stylish.
To see all 10 of the living rooms featured in the Style At Home article, visit www.styleathome.com/homes/interiors/10-living-rooms-we-love/a/43270
Republished from the Brandon Sun print edition October 27, 2012
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