08 Formal Living Room Ideas That Aren’t Stuffy
A formal living room is a great place to entertain, socialize and relax with family and friends. Depending on the style, size, and functional needs of the space, there are a few things you can do to keep your living room from feeling stuffy.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind after work, unwind, or relax with a book, check out these 50 formal living room ideas below for inspiration.
01 Pick a Fun Rug
Although the white chairs and built-in bookcase seem quite formal, this room’s moody green walls and beige animal print rug are the necessary touches to create a friendly, non-stuffy feel.
02 Go Monochromatic
For DIYer Kate’s family’s Hawaiian living room, she aimed to create a cozy and colorful atmosphere. She painted the walls, ceiling and trim the same color: blue, inspired by the ocean. The room also features two turquoise velvet sofas and handmade abstract art.
03 Accent With Natural Stone
This modern living room from Austin architects Clayton Korte impresses with neutral colors and organic materials.
“Stone provides a rich, natural look and is a timeless finish,” says interior designer Christina Clark. “Using natural stone with a bold color, large veining or movement can also make this traditional finish look more modern and edgy.”
04 Paint the Fireplace
In designer Mary Patton’s Houston home, she added pops of color to the formal living room. The turquoise fireplace is a natural highlight and enlivens the neutral color palette.
05 Pick Playful Patterns
Palm Beach designer Caitlin Ka focuses on fresh, livable interiors, ranging from traditional to contemporary. In her living room on Jupiter Island, Florida, she incorporated intricate elements such as arches and sculptural chandeliers in different patterns, colors and textures.
“It brings ease and comfort to a formal living area,” she says.
06 Elevate Original Details
In this living room, designed by Charity Buchica of Teaselwood Design, she let the original architectural features shine with a “custom stone fireplace surrounded by brass lanterns and original wood beams that create a simple and cozy aesthetic,” she said.
The red and blue color scheme and eye-catching patterns make the space lively and fun.
07 Use Personal Art
New York designer Alvin Wayne transformed a 4,500-square-foot 1980s home into a family space for local artist Greg Griffith. A hot pink Griffith painting hangs next to a navy blue sofa and upholstered ottoman. The low seats are comfortable and great for kids, parties, etc.
08 Add Linen Drapes
Floor-to-ceiling curtains were chosen by Clayton Court designer Christina Clarke for a living room that doesn’t feel stuffy.
“Floor-to-ceiling curtains can add height and grandeur to your space while keeping it neutral, and using natural fibers (like linen) can help it feel light and airy while contributing to the overall character of the room,” she says .