Multipurpose spaces are the norm in today’s modern homes, especially in regards to living rooms. Decorators strategically find ways to hide televisions to accommodate more than just TV-related activities. But a new trend is surfacing as households are deciding to ditch the television altogether creating a space with a traditional living room concept that embraces conversation over entertainment.
There are several reasons why people are tuning out televisions:
- When a TV is present it is nearly impossible not to focus on it. Even when it is off, it calls out for attention.
- Households want to break the habit of coming home and simply turning on the TV. Instead, they are focusing on communicating, exercising, reading, and building a cohesive home.
- In an electronics-dominated life, people are looking for escapes where they can connect with their loved ones outside the digital realm.
- People are choosing to stay informed via streaming services used on computers, tablets, and smartphones. This tactic is not only convenient for users, but it limits how disruptive you are to everyone else around you.
These television-less living rooms are becoming the heart of the home. Here are 5 ways to design your living room for an intimate experience that focuses on family and friends:
1. Open Furniture Arrangements
Since the television is not the main draw of the room, you must create an inviting environment through other means. Start with an open furniture arrangement. It is designed to be inviting from any entrance as guests can easily access seating. Place furnishings facing each other to encourage conversation.
2. A New Focal Point
Without the television you have to create a new focal point. Two popular selections include fireplaces and bars. Both elements are warm and invite guests to gather around them.
3. Neutral Staple Pieces
While your focal point may say, “look at me,” your seating should be welcoming and non-invasive. Select neutral and textural materials for sofas and chairs. Consider treating them for stain resistance to make them more user friendly. The goal is to create a lounge-setting where family and guests feel like they can relax, put up their feet and enjoy a glass of wine or cup of coffee without causing a scene.
4. A Circular Configuration
Building on design tip #1, a circular configuration is perhaps one of the most popular open arrangements to encourage conversation. It was originally designed strictly for social purposes.
For a fool proof plan select four club chairs surrounding a round coffee table. It seats guests so that they can easily see each other as you encourage them to linger over appetizers and drinks. Remember to select comfortable chairs and look for curvy lines to complement a round table.
A soft ottoman is a fun alternative to a round table.
5. Divide an Open Floor Plan
Generous square footage should be divided into multiple conversational areas. While you want to embrace an open furniture arrangement, spreading your pieces out too far will compromise attractiveness along with the conversational element.
Instead, divide large rectangular and square spaces into a minimum of two separate seating areas. Try a table as a divider between two living spaces complete with their own sofas, chairs, coffee tables, end tables, etc. The key here is symmetry. One side should mirror the other. Make the table accessible from both areas.
It is not always necessary to have two complete seating areas setup for conversation. Perhaps you only need one conversational space and then wish to have a private area where one can exclude himself from discussions. In this space consider using area rugs to create imaginary lines between the distinct functions. They will also help anchor your furniture for a cohesive and grounded look.
Does a television-less living room sound appealing? Whether your answer is yes or no, the Interior Design Professionals at Decor & You can help you create the living room of your dreams. Contact Decor & You today to define functional areas, select the perfect furnishings, anchor your look, and wow with accents.
Source:: decorandyouhr.com
Creating a Television-Less Living Room
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