Modern style living room ideas take a minimalist approach to decor and furniture to showcase clean lines. This contemporary look cultivates a sophisticated feel with simple, sleek furnishings, and a few sculptural accents. Natural materials like wood are key for keeping a modern vibe. This living room by UK-based designer Tiffany Duggan uses a mix of wood textures to soften the room, and incorporates neutral colors to keep the space feeling open and airy.
A white sofa sets the stage for this modern space, and allows the gorgeous city views through floor-to-ceiling windows to shine. The oversized art above the sofa offers a pop of color, and the custom built-ins are the perfect place to show off collectibles and books. The patterned throw pillows showcase an invigorating pattern, but the simple design of the rest of the room keeps the piece looking clean and contemporary.
The use of light neutrals helps this living room stay feeling spacious and open, which is perfect for a small space. The pale gray walls, upholstery and accessories allow the large floor-to-ceiling windows to stand out, while a few well-placed wood pieces add texture and warmth. The striped throw pillows offer a pop of color that easily blends with the rest of the room, and the floral print on the accent chair’s ottoman is subtle enough to not compete with the modern look of the rest of the room.
Using one or two strong colors to define areas of the room is a classic way to add drama to any design. In this modern space, a cobalt stripe highlights the media wall and defines the flanking bookcases. The coordinating colors on the pillows and the woven accents on the coffee table help everything sit together seamlessly.
If you’re going with a bold color scheme, try using a variety of patterns to add visual interest. The straight geometric lines of the striped pillows and the palm-like design on the chair both play off the blue canard walls to add depth to the room. By keeping the other details simple, such as the woven table linens and the natural wood of the sofa frame, the contrasting prints don’t feel too overpowering.
Another trick for making your living room feel more modern is to make sure that your wall art and décor is positioned above eye level. This will give your space an instant upgrade, and it will also stretch the room and create the illusion of more space. If you’re worried about your walls being too bare, try grouping sconces together for a statement wall, or hang them above picture windows to create a gallery effect.
While modern decor is often associated with clean lines, a few well-placed textures can add dimension and warmth to any design. Adding a few touches of metal and leather to this modern space, gives it the right balance to feel comfortable and welcoming. Whether your living room is small or large, these tips can help you achieve a modern aesthetic that feels balanced and inviting.