Modern living room ideas

Then you just need to decide on the configuration, and whether you prefer a compact two-seater, something that seats three or four people, a corner sofa or a recliner. A corner sofa makes the most of a smaller space, or defines the seating area in a multi-purpose room. If you have a large living space, a modular sofa made from lots of individual pieces, arranged in a variety of ways, will give flexibility as well as an up-to-date look.

How your sofa has been made, and what with, will also influence your choice, as well as the price. Quality sofas feature hardwood frames, and fillings that keep their shape for longer. The upholstery should be hard-wearing, with leather a good all-round practical choice that is easy to clean. Try to pick a colour that’s not likely to date.

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3. Modern living room ideas - chic accent chairs

An accent chair makes a great addition to any modern living room. Quirky, eye-catching, and equal parts decorative and functional, it may be the design or colour that makes the chair stand out. If you want to make a style statement, or could simply do with an extra seat, a purchase here is worthwhile.

The designs of some chairs might echo the 1950s or 1960s, covered in bright velvet or leather, with sturdy wooden or sleek metal legs. Others may feature a steam bent wood or sleek metal frame. The limit only seems to be the designer’s imagination, with all kinds of shapes and materials in play. You can even choose a chair with a luxurious buttoned back and scroll arms – a splash of vintage style can make a real impact in a modern living room.

While some accent chairs – such as leather swivel chairs with footstools – are perfect for reading in, others are lower with sumptuous cushioning. Our cuddle or snuggler armchairs are made for serious chilling out.

Whether the chair uses soft linen or leather, has a Nordic feel or delivers something more unexpected, you can guarantee that an accent chair will draw the eye of your guests.

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6. Modern living room ideas - shelving

Shelving these days has moved beyond the mere practical. It still pays to consider your storage needs, but the best modern living room ideas can keep things flexible, mixing styles, heights and textures for visual interest.

Simple shelves, arranged on a wall to display your personal collection of travel knick-knacks and art, can be placed at different heights and in interesting configurations. The objects can be arranged according to height, so the distances between the shelves themselves varies. Floating shelves are very popular currently as are asymmetric and ladder shelving units.

Find shelves that fit in an alcove, or go all-out with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, but don’t worry about these seeming dull. Try arranging books horizontally for a clean, uniform look or choose a specific accessory colour for vases, ornaments and picture frames, and dot these throughout.

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