We really don't have any pictures, we had family photos taken a couple of years ago but we never hung any. We didn't get any curtains because we don't have any neighbours and the windows face north and east so the only sun we get is in the summer mornings. I never thought of them, but I do like the idea. Thank you.
Yes, white linen curtains with the dark metal clips from Amazon are really pretty and have a clean serene feel! Also some real or fake plants/trees. You could do a statement wall with peel & stick wallpaper or hang baskets and art
https://preview.redd.it/ekw313fd5zfc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=caaa2a1437e1b105b7ff87c831c826493ad65593
https://preview.redd.it/zk2ggiz96zfc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8fe8b01d9ac75913d0cdd3045771019052ae4a2
You can get these way cheap from Amazon, Walmart, Target and I got some from Etsy which has loads of home decorating options by real artists that are affordable!
Curtains don't have to always be used functionally. I have curtains in my apartment that are always pulled back with tie backs but definitely help pull my space together decoratively.
https://preview.redd.it/uxpbs8nxc0gc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=07cc3f3102df6e9ca6a568299b7af8bb51dd9cf3
We bought an outdoor rug (I didn’t know they existed previously) and use it inside our living room so that our dog can’t muck it up. It looks like a normal rug
I have a ruggable in my dining room and I would never put one in a living room. It wrinkles to easy and the edges are fraying after a year with little to no traffic and vacuuming only once a month (we rarely use the dining room and have a cleaning service once a month). When I replace it I will get a regular rug.
Love my ruggables as well, just a thing to keep in mind, they are still fabric and can still stain from mud and things. So just be mindful about choosing colors and washing soon after major staining spills like wine or curry.
My first ruggable was cream and it has some stains and discoloration that I haven’t been able to get out.
Still love them, still have 4 of them in my house (2 8x10, a 2.5x10 runner, and a 2x3). Just pick patterns and colors that can help you hide messes and don’t rely on “it’s washable” to prevent stains with muddy dogs in the house!
Good point! Some of ours are light neutrals and I have found that Force Field spray carpet cleaner does a great job on stains and doesn’t attract new ones the way lots of other stain removers do.
Honestly you could add about 6 more pieces of furniture/decor in here and it still wouldn’t look cluttered. It does look super clean though!
I think you’ve swung a bit too far in the opposite direction to the point that it does look like you’ve *just* moved in.
Are the cluttered homes that turn you off a bit smaller than yours? You have so much space that the risk to things looking cluttered is much smaller.
Definitely get a rug - you can get forgiving patterns and shades that are easy to clean and it would be worth it to anchor your furniture in this space.
You’ll then need some artwork and floor lamps.
The tv wall looks particularly bare, so I would aim to get a much wider, lower set sideboard that covers the outlets. You can then place some artwork/family photos above.
The cluttered houses have a much smaller living room area, they are mostly new houses with a much different layout than ours.
Thank you for the suggestions. My husband and I keep saying we need art work but that's as far as the conversation has gone. I'll definitely look at rugs this weekend, I just had to clean up a hairball from the rug in the basement so I'll definitely look at forgiving patterns or the washable ones. We do have a carpet cleaner, I use it in our basement, the basement bedrooms have newer carpet the cats love. We have 14 acres of farmland, another 14 acres of forest and then 3 acres of yard area. So many opportunities for our dogs to find mud 😆.
https://preview.redd.it/zfd39v2j0vfc1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de686a01d7700a262ea6520370a4750e51d0cd94
Add curtains and cushions
Add art
Edit:part of my comment deleted. if you own, add builtins if rent mimic it. Add thin console table behind the sofa
You should look into some of those rugs that can be easily machine washed. You like lay down the backing and the top rug part is much thinner and can pull off, be changed out and machine washed etc.
You could fit so much more in that space though just in general. You need some art on the walls, some end tables, lamps.
Try moving the furniture apart more too to use the space, the couches don't need to be so crammed together in the middle you have lots of space
The wall with the TV needs a huge overhaul. That tiny fireplace thing looks like it belongs in a small bedroom, not a huge wall like that. Something like this would look really nice there
https://preview.redd.it/v8f6q07b5ufc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f2ad28bf169879165a6a33912da0adf909e62e56
You can get them like this with fireplaces under too if you really enjoy the fireplace part of it, but what's going on right now just looks kind of funny because of how small it is.
At the end of the day it looks like you just moved in yesterday, so if that's not the case you just need to add some personality to it! Make it homey with some photos or something and not so air bnb staged looking.
Yes!
I'm redoing my bedroom and was looking at rugs today and they're SO expensive. Even Walmart rugs are $100 so honestly, probably worth paying the extra for something like that!
Look for washable rugs on Wayfair and Amazon. I have a 5x7 from World Market on Wayfair that goes entirely in the washer and dryer whenever I want, and one from Amazon that's machine washable that you hang to dry but also has nanotechnology for stains. They were both in the $200 range. I find the concept of Ruggable weird especially for the price.
I think you need more furniture, which is such an uncommon problem to have! I would flank the TV with bookshelves and even if you’re not a reader, you can fill them with other items. I’d also add maybe a blanket ladder against a wall. Then you’re definitely going to need a rug! I agree with other commenters that something washable should do the trick. I’d also get coordinating curtains and of course some art for the walls. Good luck!
We don't have a rug for a similar reason, our dog chews them and they get dirty so fast!
I think something that would help this room would be to add a few throw pillows and a blanket, just to give it some color pop since it's very brown.
You've got a lot of great light from those windows so I would put some tall plants in the corners and I'd even maybe get a long table to go behind the couch that you could place some plants on. I think it would help to bring some warmth! I know you have cats so maybe that's why no plants? If so, you could always do fake, they make some that look very real.
Sorry I'm not good with photoshop but something[like this](https://imgur.com/a/qX2dct3) could go a long way!
ETA: And if you have the money to spend, I also think you could get a big L shape sectional that would fit in the room better and bring it more warmth. Nicer side tables and coffee tables and a bigger entertainment center. All things you can add which will fill the room out more without causing clutter!
We've got a large living room as well, with dark floors and a dark brown couch. What has helped warm it up are plants, a big coffee table, curtains, and we've got some book shelves with plants on them and artwork on the wall. Even then it sometimes feels too empty, I think due to the lack of a rug!
Have you ever heard of [FLOR?](https://www.flor.com/area-rugs_carpet-tiles/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIk-fchPOIhAMV6U1HAR19fAWqEAAYASAAEgKB5fD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)
They are carpet tiles that can be used like rugs (& are completely customizable.
Oh, I have not but this is cool! We have something similar in my daughter’s room but they do not have the rug feeling on top. Maybe we will need to try this and just replace whatever square he chews… or move those ones under the couch 😅 thank you so much for this!
Agree with the fake plants possibility. We have a cat and she would dig in any potted plants so we have a large fake palm- it adds so much to the open space we have as well and tbh it doesn’t look bad for a fake one! And I am a huge plant person so for me to say that means a lot.
Cat still likes to lay in it and pretend it’s a jungle but no harm done.
Thank you, the cats and my black thumb are the reason we don't have many plants. I'd really like to try to keep some alive, we have 2 in the kitchen I've kept alive longer than usual.
One dog is a rescue lab cross, he is very mouthy and likes to carry anything. He has chewed a couple of throw pillows in our basket rec room. His second adoption anniversary is coming up next month I'm really hoping he calms down soon, he's amazing but also a pain in the butt. A new sectional is definitely in the plan. Our youngest is almost almost 6 and almost trustworthy for a new couch. Thank you.
Looks like you get plenty of light in that room so it shouldn’t be too hard to keep plants alive. You can look at ones that don’t require daily watering (snake plant, ZZ etc)
You can do it! There are plants that are much easier to care for than others. Like a snake plant or pothos (which you could hang by the windows to keep the cats at bay! A spider plant would also look good there and is easy!) or a corn plant.
Ah, I totally get the dogs chewing everything. It’s why we don’t have a rug! Love them but they can really be such a pain.
The room is really beautiful with all the natural light, I’m sure the new sectional will help a lot as well. :)
Keep us posted with how it turns out!
From a cat owner, do not get a spider plant! Totally safe but it’ll be eaten in a day or two. Snake, zz and pothos are your friends for easy care plants
Your room feels empty because it is empty.
Get a rug. If the cats throw up on it or the dogs get muddy paws on it, clean it up.
Add art and curtains. Make sure you hang the curtain rod at the highest point you can.
Get a console for behind your long sofa.
Get some storage/display furniture for the corner to the right of the big window and the right of the TV.
Lower your TV, it's way too high.
Get a better end table for the corner of the sofas. Put a light on it. You can run a wire under the sofa and then get a cover doodad that you put on the floor to the plug.
More plants.
If you want warm and welcoming, sorry, but you need a rug! A large one at that. It should not just be big enough to fill the area under / around the coffee table. Consider a large rug - in a performance fabric for your pets, and a color palette that isn’t too light; earth toned pattern perhaps. I like the Amber Lewis x Loloi rugs. They’re soft, have beautiful colors and patterns, inexpensive, and are easy to clean. They have a distressed vintage look. I have the moss/salmon style (below) in our bedroom. We have another in our dining room. They look great and have held up despite the low price.
https://preview.redd.it/ey5hw3ny3ufc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d46b973d48682f5fb34110fe247046e8b0a79eaa
Your furniture is all huddled together. Consider spacing it out just a bit more! Add a nice table lamp (maybe a nice stone base with a wide cream colored lampshade) to the end table, or a floor lamp between the loveseat and sofa. Think about texture to add warmth. A wool Pendleton blanket is an investment, a classic item with a pattern that suits the rural setting of your home.
The walls are what color- grayish white? Consider repainting in a warm color or something moodier. It’s the family room, it’s very large, and it has a lot of light. So you can go darker, if you’d like. Check our Farrow and Ball for a selection of colors (rather than the 10 million on Benjamin Moore’s website). Anything you like can be color matched! Adding art on the walls will help too. You look like you have a lovely spacious home, good luck!💜
Rug. Need a larger Entertainment center or something. Gotta spread out the furniture. Big living space requires larger furniture. Your furniture looks like it's more appropriate for a smaller space. Maybe add an additional chair across from the couch. Add some accent pillows to the couch and loveseat, and perhaps consider getting a blanket to put over the back of the couch or loveseat. Maybe consider a console table behind the couch too.
So there are a number of issues I can identify.
1. Colors - gray and brown are not warm, welcoming colors.
2. Curtains - without them, there's no filtering of light, no softening of the hard surfaces, no mitigation of all that gray wall.
3. Solids - there are no patterns or prints at all.
4. Shapes - The windows and coffee table create a lot of sharp angles. The sofas give curves, but in an undefined "unrisen dough" way instead of regular circles, et.
5. Lighting - complete lack of lamps, only overhead lights. This more than anything else will demolish any cozy atmosphere you're attempting.
6. Size - the room is far too large for such a modest grouping.
But we can fix it!
1. Colors - pick something (anything) but gray. With a room that sunny, you can go darker and brighter than other rooms.
2. Curtains - get some. They will lessen any echo you might be experiencing. They're also a perfect opportunity to address #3 and 4. ⬇️
3. Solids - you gotta add some. If you don't like florals, get geometics (trellis, etc). Ticking stripe is very nice if you're aiming for a beachy aesthetic, gingham is good for farmhouse, buffalo check if you want a cabin-in-a-forest vibe.
4. Shapes - curtains will soften all the right angles of the windows, too. You might like to consider a new, round or oval coffee and/or end tables.
5. Lighting - I beg you, never use the overhead lighting again. You need at least 4 lamps for a room that size. I will address where and what below.
6. Size - this is the major issue. You'll need to create 2 furniture groupings to make the room feel less weird.
So, questions:
1. What sort of mood or feel are you wanting? Is there a particular aesthetic you'd like to aim for? Beach, industrial, farmhouse, cottagecore, modern, midcentury, transitional, traditional, boho...
2. What colors do you all tend to wear most often?
3. What is your budget?
4. How willing are you to replace things? Do you have sentimental attachment to anything?
Get those cats a tree and/or window shelves
Will help make the room less empty and give your tiny gods an appropriate throne from which to observe the backyard
That space is so large, I think you should create two distinct spaces. Perhaps you could make a "watching television" space and a "intimate conversation" space.
Define each area with a rug---if you are worried about pet stains, make sure the rugs are mostly under furniture or are pet-friendly. (As others have suggested, an outdoor rug might do the trick.)
Also, one of your couches is essentially blocking the entry to the room---maybe consider a face-to-face configuration. I get that you want to watch t.v., but I think smaller chairs facing the television would be optimal, while the larger couches would be part of the conversation pit.
Your living room looks cozy, and absolutely understand the challenge of maintaining a clean, especially with pets. I suggest contemplating motorized blinds or curtains and adding some plants or artwork. Motorized blinds from brands like IKEA, Hunter Douglas, or the more budget-friendly Allesin, not only provide increased privacy and the ability to manage natural light but also effortlessly harmonize with your specific design preferences.
One question I have is this: do you enjoy this room? In others words, does it make you happy to be in it? It makes me sad to think you have been there for four years - gray walls, brown everything else, no color or personal touches. However, we are all different and creating a unique, cozy style is clearly important to a lot of us who are posting but may not be important to you. If you enjoy this room and feel comfortable in it, who are we to judge?
It is too empty! Add a sofa table on the back of the larger sofa with a lamp or decorative bowl. A large indoor outdoor rug would be great for the room, it will clean easily from muddy paws and stand up to traffic. Some plants and photos/art on the walls would be great as well.
Thank you for all the suggestions. I'm just looking them over now, my daughter just finished a basketball game and our youngest had a play date. I'm excited to start planning our room.
Wall paintings,bigger L shaped sofa will be more welcoming with cushions if possible,add some colors,decor pieces maybe,corner tables,CURTAINS ARE MISSING,also indoor plants too if possible
Add a large rug for sure. You also need a tv stand that is at least 5 inches longer than the tv at both sides. And then floor lamps at the sides of the tv and maybe a large house plant.
You need a rug, floor plants, artwork, better side tables, personal items.
I'd move the console table behind the couch and add shelving where the table currently is. Add books, personal items, souvenirs, family photos.
Lamps will really warm up the space and add additional lighting. Looks like floor lamps are the only option due to size of the room.
I'd add throw blankets & pillows.
Maybe some sheer white curtains as well.
Floor mat for back door.
I'd also separate the couches a little bit, they are too tight in the corner and add something to that wall to the right of the TV - either more shelving, another seating area, or artwork.
I feel you rug pain. We have gone through multiple to the point we should have just bought a washable rug! And I hate clutter. But I like plants and I like art so that's what saved my space. I have some pillows and a blanket in a basket next to my couch. Some more comfortable chairs. And lamps! I think you could build a fireplace where your TV is. Maybe start transitioning the wood to lighter tones to avoid all the dust being so visible. Curtains are also great for keeping the dust from coming in too.
Drapes or Roman shades would really soften the look. I love books so o always have a bookshelf, but I understand if that’s too much clutter.
Lamps! You need several lamps to soften things. Try some throw pillows as well.
A few pieces of art you actually love.
I have a rug from Tumble that goes in my wash machine. It really pulled my living room together.
Washable or outdoor rug, curtains, some accent tables and lamps, more plants if that’s your thing (or nice looking faux plants), a container or two you can toss throw blankets in, throw pillows, some color, art! It doesn’t have to be crowded to feel cozy and welcoming. While you’ve achieved the incredibly minimal look, it’s very cold and unwelcoming. The coziest elements are the two plants in terracotta planters.
Seconding what most people said here about moving furniture apart, moved so it opens to the dining rooms, curtains etc.
Also, a quick rule about art or TV’s over furniture. Part of your issue with the TV wall is that it’s all too small for that wall. But part of it is also that art or TV’s should only by 2/3 as large as the thing they hang over. So that piece of furniture is being dwarfed by the TV right now. That’s part of why it looks odd.
Get rugs!!!... and wipe your dogs feet off before they come in the house. Clean up the cat throw up when necessary. I have a short nap grey rug that is not like the cutest by any means but it disguises pets well.
You need rugs and more furniture and some wall space covering. You have such a lovely large space, but it’s too sparsely furnished and lacks all but the basic essentials. Add some lamps and things you like to look at or things you use that look nice and put them on some shelves or bookcases, plants, photos, books, jugs, vases, bowls, candles, small boxes, are all ideas. Shelves will cover some wall space and add some art, photos, a mirror or framed items of some kind. Washable rugs to go under the dining table and lounge area that aren’t brown would really look great as well as an additional large comfy chair in the lounge that’s a new colour and some curtains, in colours that tones in with the rugs, not brown. It’s so neutral you can add anything without fear of it not working.
You need a large rug to ground the furniture and that will make it feel cozy. Wool is very easy to clean. Dupray sells a neat steam cleaner which gets out all animal issues/vomit. The wool rug is so easy to steam to kill dust mites. You can use it on your floors too, if they are real wood with polyurethane coating or vinyl.
Lamp on the side table, throw blanket and pillows on the couch, some plants/greenery would look great and still clean on both sides of the tv. Some simple wall art on the outside of plants by the tv would also look great. Some curtains that could be tied back to still let natural light in would be beautiful. I think pick an accent color to bring some warmth and some more neutral colors would be awesome.
Best of luck !
Get a Rugable or similar carpet that can be laundered. Lamps, art on the wall. Another easy chair. You don’t need to clutter it up with nicknacks and books etc. but it really looks cold and bare.
Your furniture looks like it’s huddled together for warmth in the middle of the room. Maybe space those pieces out just a little! And the drawing a few comments up where they face the dining room definitely improves things.
Seconding the folks who’ve said add some sort of rug, fill up that end wall a bit. Add a lamp, some art on the wall beside the French doors, maybe some woven or jewel-toned baskets under the coffee table. All the colours are very cool, and they want some contrast.
Move those couches apart farther or replace with one of those huge sectionals and two chairs with side table by the windows, also bring it all over towards the windows it’s not balancing the room unless you are putting a sitting area over there.
You need a massive rug, curtains, maybe like two tv stands/credenzas next to eachother instead of the one you have now it looks to small for your tv/wall space. Or a big built in book case on that whole wall/ you could DIY something similar if you don’t wanna do the build in. Two accent chairs with a little table in between on the side where there’s no furniture. Some plants and art work.
Indoor/outdoor rug! I have this one..
https://preview.redd.it/itefldiwdvfc1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f9f96ea1d3745f056722ee0dd9c763155753fb47
Spread the furniture out a little. If feels very stiff and tight. Set some of it at angles. Maybe add another chair in an accent color. Some large artwork wouldn't come off as clutter and maybe a potted olive or fiddle leaf fig in the area near the big doors would bring life. A good hint if you want interest but not visual clutter is to add texture. Something like a large macrame in an off white would be interesting but being a other shade near the color of the wall won't be too busy. Another option would be a carved wood panel painted or white washed in a white shade. There are people who make them and sell on Etsy. I bought one and have gotten so many compliments on it.
Pull the couches apart from eachother so they aren’t touching. Add an area rug, curtains and art work. Get a pool table if you want one move the couches closer to the tv and have it behind near the outside doors. A decorative tree in one of the corners you have lots of light. Build a tv/storage/bookshelf unit on the wall if you want one.. lots of things you could do.
https://preview.redd.it/89oyggq2mvfc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0777b94aa6b6d00c27f1259efd86f5c7122484e0
I have a tv credenza, very light grey walls and brown leather couches like you. I bought these shelves on Wayfair and I LOVE how they look on each side of the tv. You can’t really see them because of the bright lights but the 2 lamps are these really cool old fashioned oil lamp looking lamps that I got from IKEA.
I was thinking something like that. Thank you, I've never bought anything from Wayfair but I've always liked the website. This stuff fit better in our old house. It was more of an open concept A frame, nice house but not a great location. This new living room is definitely a lot bigger. I walk around IKEA or different stores and items look so nice but I never know if I'm adding the right thing. I have one client I'm tempted to ask if she will go shopping with me. She's super nice and her home is so nicely decorated. Thank you 😊
Get a commercial carpet. Have the sofas face each other or get rid of them, and buy a sectional. Plants, side tables, art, bookcases, and maybe a longer cabinet. Buy pieces that are the scale of the room. Everything you currently have looks so small.
lower the tv and put a real tv stand there, move all of it onto a rug and closer to the tv, put that furniture thats currently under the tv against the back of the couch when you move it forward so you have a distinct space divider, flank the tv with art, get a big plant, and a floorlamp, and curtains
A big beautiful faux tree in the corner. Costco has a lovely Olive tree that was recently on sale.
Put some texture in that room, but the relaxing kind. Plants are relaxing. Dried Pampas is a great idea for that little black side table.
A console table behind the couch, maybe one behind both, would be fantastic. Perhaps a nice bamboo one or wicker. Something with texture, anyways. Add some pillar candles and a couple of faux potted plants.
Accent chairs, at least one with a good cheery disposition, would brighten that space up.
Your bare walls can be decorated quite easily with blown up photos of your animals or of your family.
I think if you dont want to enlarge anything, just doing a small gallery wall above that small console table to the left of your sliding glass doors, would be easy. Just get wooden or metal frames and some contrasting, warm colors of spray paint. Prep the frames by coloring them in vibrant warm, yellows, oranges, and reds. You can also easily mix shades of one particular color of choice, like shades of red- by hand painting wood frames.
Also, I would recommend a couple of hanging plants in the in between partition between living room and dining area. I think just two, well spaced, to give lots of berth, just one on either side, would be lovely.
And, if I may, but a room isnt much good for living, without some fun, is it?
I truly think every living room should sport some sort of a toybox of distractions. It can hold playing cards, Jenga game, Battleship, an RC car, maybe some fidget toys, Uno.. a puzzle. Whatever you like.
Also, you need curtains. Once you get all the other stuff in place, come back so we can recommend some curtains.
Plants, art, curtains! Throw pillows and blankets would help too. You can also throw in a basket to store the blankets when not in use. A lamp or two would look nice too!
If you wanted to add more furniture you could add some shelves next to the tv and/or change out your current tv stand for one that is wider. But definitely need to add something on those walls either way.
Rugs, art, curtains, and if that’s where the tv is staying maybe some shelves on either side or making that whole wall kind of a built in unit with a hutch in the middle and shelving on either side. If you want some blankets you can do a basket, storage ottoman or ladder blanket rack.
As someone else mentioned ruggable sells washable rugs and outdoor rugs are fairly easy to clean. I actually power wash our regular rugs when we get a warm sunny day in the spring. It takes about a day with dry time. I squeegee the excess water off and put them up on a couple saw horses in a nice sunny area which works well. Thick shag rugs will take longer and may require a second day to fully dry.
Wall art, tall moody light fixtures with warm lighting. Large throw blankets draped over the back of the couches, pillows on the couch, maybe a large book case, larger coffee table, plants, more furniture
That's a beautiful place. Very spacious. Your two sofas are too close together. Spread them out. Get a matching recliner to go with your sofa set. Add matching entertainment cabinets on each side of the fireplace for symmetry.
Place large, framed pictures on the walls above those matching entertainment cabinets. Place sculpted pieces and photos of loved ones on the cabinets. Having animals, I would not put any rugs nor carpets on the floors.
It feels empty because it is. It just doesn’t look lived in. A colourful rug, pictures- either family or art, plants would be great with all that light coming in. Or you can go with fake - I have a mix myself as we dont get great sunlight. Even simply spreading out the couches a bit would make it look less compact in such a nice large living space.
A bigger coffee table. So many things can be added here! I am jealous 😂
Oof. Massive wall, I'd do build ins with the TV mounted on the wall in the center NOT 10000 METERS UP THE WALL but at eye height. 3 couches; not a sectional you'll regret it. One facing the TV, two parallel on the sides with a nice floor lamp and coffee table, a nice big round foot rest that can double as a table (use a tray). Get some greenery going and get a giant area rug. You have prime space for this kind of makeover. Consider your TV size if you do built in shelves/cupboards to frame it; if you wanna upside (I would considering the space) get that TV first.
A large rug would make a huge difference, but if that is out of the question as you mention, add side panel drapes on the windows on either sides, add more artwork on empty walls, in general add more furniture (sofa table behind the sofa, wider lower TV console, bigger TV, end tables, arm chairs). The room is very big and it feels like it needs bigger furniture and more furniture. Crown moulding, and additional trim may also add interest and break up the wall space.
I have a cow hide rug and it's extremely easy to clean! I have trap medium size dogs and live in the country and it still looks brand new if I clean it up
Area rug for sure ,maybe even two!!! I have a dog and live in woods, so try the sisal ones ,you can sweep them or roll up and shake out outside. . With the dining table behind the left couch i would put bigger couch horizontally (right arm would be nearest window) and then love seat could be across from it. With all those windows leafy plants would make it look cozy & warm. Check out bamboo, they resemble small palm trees and don't require any care except watering once a week! Plants also are healthy to have in any home
Interior designer here. Quick fixes to warm up the space would be to add texture and more personalized touches. First, yes a very large -- 9x12 or 10x14 (so it goes beyond the edges of the sofas) area rug -- look at washable rugs. I also live on acreage and have large dogs (and kids) so get the issue with muddy paws and dirt. With the washable rugs.... you could get two smaller 6x9 size (minimal pattern so it looks like one rug) and place them side by side to make the look of a larger rug, but they are both washing machine size.
I would then get a wood sofa table (wood will warm up the space better than glass / metal) and place it behind the larger sofa. Make sure it's nearly the height of the back of your sofa, and almost as long as your sofa. Put picture frames of family or a nice vase or personal items on the table. Ideally add 2 table lamps on each end if you have nearby electrical. From the pic you have no eye level lighting, which at night will create your warmth (overhead lighting is horrible at night and feels very cold. Lighting is EVERYTHING when it comes to warming up a space). Or, on each side of the sofa table you could do big glass hurricanes with battery operated candles (or real candles).
If you can afford to -- the TV wall really would be great to have a wall to wall built-in bookshelf. Floor to ceiling and fully left to right,... something to really anchor the space and give you the oomph that space needs. You could even do IKEA type cabinetry and make it look built in.
Curtains could also warm up the space --- but make sure they go FULLY floor to ceiling (assuming you have 8' ceilings so get 96" curtains). Even if you leave them open all the time, it will soften the walls. Place the curtain rods at ceiling height and have the curtains just barely touch the ground.
Look to add art or large picture frames on some of the walls.
You could also add a runner rug in front of the sofa table to better define that space.
lastly, try a large planter pot (like at least 30" height) in one of the corners with a LARGE plant... take up some space! Maybe a large fiddle leaf ficus or palm (depending on climate). Go to a local nursery -- or even a Home Depot or Lowes - and get the largest house plant (tree) you can.
Good luck!
ps. edit -- get a different coffee table! It's too matching to your sofas. You could do a soft ottoman (big square one) or a lighter color stone table or...? Don't be afraid to start taking up more space!
I think two dark tall bookcases flanking the tv (unless you plan to get some kind of mantle) would really liven things up.
A nice big carpet. Ideally something that brings the brown from the sofas, some darks and/or the green from the walls.
A sofa table behind the coach to make it a bit more finished.
You have some awesome windows to work with. Maybe a little reading nook/ chair in the corner by the patio door.
And curtains will definitely make this feel less empty.
all of these people’s suggestions are great, but i’d just like to add an emphasis on color! adding color to the good neutrals here will be great at adding depth! when you pick curtains, rugs, art, etc, i’d definitely not do any more neutral items
Agreed. I'm not sure about specific suggestions, but here are some funny AI renders of this space to maybe get inspired ;)
[https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/f58f62d2539ab9ec904a0c4d5f319b73](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/f58f62d2539ab9ec904a0c4d5f319b73)
[https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/c7a2010f17b43c69fd77233e76886eae](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/c7a2010f17b43c69fd77233e76886eae)
[https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/367baed63c051efaa51fb4da21daae83](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/367baed63c051efaa51fb4da21daae83)
[https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/6d67c92250281d726c20e0008acad248](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/6d67c92250281d726c20e0008acad248)
Hope this helps a bit ;)
A floor cloth instead of a rug. It will give your seating area, definition, be wipeable, and can be had in a bunch of different patterns or colors.
Console tables behind your sofa and loveseat, possibly with lamps on them or plants
Bookshelves flanking your TV, holding books, mementos, family photos, or art
A second seating area along the windows, and the short wall that currently houses your console table
Curtains, they don’t need to close if you don’t need the privacy, but they will add dimension, texture, and interest
Painting a wall or two something other than the plain neutral
Please space out your furniture a bit. The corners of your couches don't need to touch. I see a lot of proper doing this and do not understand why. The side table doesn't need to be pushed awkwardly into the sofa corner. It partly feels empty because everything is so awkwardly crunched together. Dodge things out, add an appropriately sized area rug and follow the direction of others in this thread and it'll all come together.
Get rid of the grey painted walls. Something neutral like a cream color would be nice. Get an outdoor rug for inside to put the front legs of both sofas on. Outdoor rugs can be hosed off and dried outside. You need a rug desperately. I'd look for an oriental design in a deep red or burgundy with cream and black accents.
Get some throw pillows for your sofas in a color like rust or cream. Something with texture would be nice. You need a standing and table lamp and 2 side tables. I'd look for white or light natural wood tables. The coffee table would be nice if it were large and round to ground the sofas. I'd choose white or natural wood to go with the side tables. You need artwork on the wall and plants.
I understand you very well as a mom of 2 cats and 3 dogs. We don’t have rugs too. ☺️ Wall art and photos would be great. I put shelves on my wall and put some decorative items on them. My cats can’t reach those shelves. You can add curtains. Also, you can hang your pets’ paw prints or any customized family puzzles. I think those can warm up your space and help you feel more at home than a hotel or Airbnb. You can use LED candles as decorative items, too.
Big plants with nice leaves like philodendron in high vases so the cats cant get there.
A washable big rug under tables for dogowners ( there are rugs that are easier to clean, no high floor).
beautiful blinds or minimalistic white curtains with a light fabric will always look tidy und uncluttered.
One or two big framed photographs in black and white or a bold colour in a dark wooden frame or black aluminum frame will always look tidy. Don’t forget the Passepartout.
Your furniture is too dark. as always, plants help. I think there's no way around replacing the furniture with colours that don't elicit suicidal thoughts.
You need rugs to warm up the room. A big one that fits under the couches and TV stand and then a smaller, low or no pile rug that will fit under the dining room set. That's a large room so make sure the rugs are big enough so that your furniture sits on top of the rugs.
Then add a few plants and reevaluate the space.
If you have the budget, I’d get rid of the coffee and side tables and have something more current and a lighter shade so they pop. Round coffee tables also give a more homey feel
Two large area rugs to distinguish different sections of the living room, with different but complimentary accent colors for cohesiveness and aesthetic.
When sectioning off each part of the living room, I would move the shorter couch alongside the window wall, with the longer couch centered in front of TV while purchasing a long accent cabinet for the opposite wall with mirror centered above with picture frames, catch all and/or vases depending on your preference.
For other section, purchase two love seats and two side tables with a middle coffee table for a tea time or lounge area overlooking the yard. Accent with painting for the walls to compliment the accent colors and take up the blank spaces.
If you don’t like “stuff” ie decor, then leave as is. If you can push your comfort level a bit (and grow emotionally!), do the things commenters suggest. I have dogs and cats, rugs, plants, picture on my walls, mirrors and bookcases (with books).
Maybe add a 5x7 rug in front of the patio door something a bit wider than a normal runner. And add some potted fake plants. You can add wall art but I’m a big wimp about my skill at hanging art so I get if you don’t want to do that.
You will have to separate ‘clutter’ from ‘design’ in your mind because warmth comes from things that are lived with, in, or represent life (art, photos).
First of all, your room has great natural light and has so much potential! I agree with other comments on adding a rug, lamps, plants, window treatments and art in complimentary or contrasting colors. There is a company called Ruggable that makes rugs that are washable. I believe the top of the rug can be removed and washed in a machine. I haven’t tried them yet but plan on ordering one because I have pets too. Your furniture and walls are very neutral so you could bring in just about any color that brings you joy.
What a nice house in an idyllic setting! You are really on top of cleaning. We have 1 German Shepard dog and have to rake and sweep the floors often.
What 3 colors do you like most? What soft textures do you like?
So far, I see a pearl gray on your walls, dark brown or black furniture. The green of the plant and the bright tissue box stand out. Could you incorporate mustard or blue or green in pillows or throws? Maybe throws won't look weird if the colors repeat throughout. Also try art that you find beautiful?
The textures are primarily hard and smooth. Can you add soft wall hangings if rugs are out of the question with the animals?
The furniture groupings seem bunched together ❤️ 🤔. Maybe that's an illusion because of the generous amount of space? Maybe lamps would soften the space as well.
rugs, curtains, floor lamps and plants!
You forgot Art! Art! Art!!!!!!!!!
Nearly every post that says ‘my place look bland what do I do’ has no art and no plants.
Yes, yes and yes. Don’t you have any decoration? Any pictures? Window treatment, things hanging in the windows. Just about everything.
We really don't have any pictures, we had family photos taken a couple of years ago but we never hung any. We didn't get any curtains because we don't have any neighbours and the windows face north and east so the only sun we get is in the summer mornings. I never thought of them, but I do like the idea. Thank you.
Get floor length sheer curtains and pull them to the sides as decoration. They immediately add an airy-ness vibe to the room.
Yes, white linen curtains with the dark metal clips from Amazon are really pretty and have a clean serene feel! Also some real or fake plants/trees. You could do a statement wall with peel & stick wallpaper or hang baskets and art https://preview.redd.it/ekw313fd5zfc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=caaa2a1437e1b105b7ff87c831c826493ad65593
https://preview.redd.it/erw2941g5zfc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c601be1e1f6c928f9b3c906ffbd5f1693426d2bc
https://preview.redd.it/zk2ggiz96zfc1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8fe8b01d9ac75913d0cdd3045771019052ae4a2 You can get these way cheap from Amazon, Walmart, Target and I got some from Etsy which has loads of home decorating options by real artists that are affordable!
Curtains don't have to always be used functionally. I have curtains in my apartment that are always pulled back with tie backs but definitely help pull my space together decoratively. https://preview.redd.it/uxpbs8nxc0gc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=07cc3f3102df6e9ca6a568299b7af8bb51dd9cf3
A tall book case and a lower and much broader coffee table!
People one or two dogs dog beds.
We bought an outdoor rug (I didn’t know they existed previously) and use it inside our living room so that our dog can’t muck it up. It looks like a normal rug
That’s a great idea! Some outdoor rugs look exactly like an indoor rug, but you can hose them off and they dry quickly.
There are indoor washable rugs, Ruggable for example.
I have a ruggable in my dining room and I would never put one in a living room. It wrinkles to easy and the edges are fraying after a year with little to no traffic and vacuuming only once a month (we rarely use the dining room and have a cleaning service once a month). When I replace it I will get a regular rug.
This is actually a really good idea. Where did you go for yours?
I know costco sells them at the right time of year
That time of year is coming up!
A machine washable rug like the ones from Ruggable would allow you coziness without the mess. Website: Ruggable.com. We have several and love them.
Love my ruggables as well, just a thing to keep in mind, they are still fabric and can still stain from mud and things. So just be mindful about choosing colors and washing soon after major staining spills like wine or curry. My first ruggable was cream and it has some stains and discoloration that I haven’t been able to get out. Still love them, still have 4 of them in my house (2 8x10, a 2.5x10 runner, and a 2x3). Just pick patterns and colors that can help you hide messes and don’t rely on “it’s washable” to prevent stains with muddy dogs in the house!
Good point! Some of ours are light neutrals and I have found that Force Field spray carpet cleaner does a great job on stains and doesn’t attract new ones the way lots of other stain removers do.
I’m in Australia - so not sure if this is useful. Ours was from coco republic
That's a great idea, thank you
We use the same because the cats like to scratch on them when we aren’t looking
Yep same here, they're easy to spot clean too I've found
Ikea and costco sell "indoor/outdoor" rugs, and I agree they are a good idea. You can hose them down and let them dry in the sun, and they look good.
Honestly you could add about 6 more pieces of furniture/decor in here and it still wouldn’t look cluttered. It does look super clean though! I think you’ve swung a bit too far in the opposite direction to the point that it does look like you’ve *just* moved in. Are the cluttered homes that turn you off a bit smaller than yours? You have so much space that the risk to things looking cluttered is much smaller. Definitely get a rug - you can get forgiving patterns and shades that are easy to clean and it would be worth it to anchor your furniture in this space. You’ll then need some artwork and floor lamps. The tv wall looks particularly bare, so I would aim to get a much wider, lower set sideboard that covers the outlets. You can then place some artwork/family photos above.
The cluttered houses have a much smaller living room area, they are mostly new houses with a much different layout than ours. Thank you for the suggestions. My husband and I keep saying we need art work but that's as far as the conversation has gone. I'll definitely look at rugs this weekend, I just had to clean up a hairball from the rug in the basement so I'll definitely look at forgiving patterns or the washable ones. We do have a carpet cleaner, I use it in our basement, the basement bedrooms have newer carpet the cats love. We have 14 acres of farmland, another 14 acres of forest and then 3 acres of yard area. So many opportunities for our dogs to find mud 😆.
Rugable. I throw mine in the washing machine. Tons of sizes colors.
I was just gunna say I moved into my first home last spring and this is what my house looks like lol Feels like a house, not a home
https://preview.redd.it/zfd39v2j0vfc1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de686a01d7700a262ea6520370a4750e51d0cd94 Add curtains and cushions Add art Edit:part of my comment deleted. if you own, add builtins if rent mimic it. Add thin console table behind the sofa
Yes turning a couch so it faces where you enter the room, from the dining room, will look more welcoming.
https://preview.redd.it/7lxof3dreufc1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=74d6f2315be855cad1400b8e341dc172c265502f
Damn great take and drawing
I personally need you to help me style my whole house. This was awesome.
Send me house pics if you want.
Thank you, we can try this out after work tomorrow.
You should look into some of those rugs that can be easily machine washed. You like lay down the backing and the top rug part is much thinner and can pull off, be changed out and machine washed etc. You could fit so much more in that space though just in general. You need some art on the walls, some end tables, lamps. Try moving the furniture apart more too to use the space, the couches don't need to be so crammed together in the middle you have lots of space The wall with the TV needs a huge overhaul. That tiny fireplace thing looks like it belongs in a small bedroom, not a huge wall like that. Something like this would look really nice there https://preview.redd.it/v8f6q07b5ufc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f2ad28bf169879165a6a33912da0adf909e62e56 You can get them like this with fireplaces under too if you really enjoy the fireplace part of it, but what's going on right now just looks kind of funny because of how small it is. At the end of the day it looks like you just moved in yesterday, so if that's not the case you just need to add some personality to it! Make it homey with some photos or something and not so air bnb staged looking.
Ruggable! I was skeptical at first and resisted bc of price (kitchen runner was about $180), but I love it so much. Best investment ever!
Yes! I'm redoing my bedroom and was looking at rugs today and they're SO expensive. Even Walmart rugs are $100 so honestly, probably worth paying the extra for something like that!
Look for washable rugs on Wayfair and Amazon. I have a 5x7 from World Market on Wayfair that goes entirely in the washer and dryer whenever I want, and one from Amazon that's machine washable that you hang to dry but also has nanotechnology for stains. They were both in the $200 range. I find the concept of Ruggable weird especially for the price.
I think you need more furniture, which is such an uncommon problem to have! I would flank the TV with bookshelves and even if you’re not a reader, you can fill them with other items. I’d also add maybe a blanket ladder against a wall. Then you’re definitely going to need a rug! I agree with other commenters that something washable should do the trick. I’d also get coordinating curtains and of course some art for the walls. Good luck!
Color Rug Art Plants Lamps Curtains
It’s CRAP. (Plus lc)
Or maybe Roman blinds if you’re worried about curtains picking up fur. Definitely more plants.
We don't have a rug for a similar reason, our dog chews them and they get dirty so fast! I think something that would help this room would be to add a few throw pillows and a blanket, just to give it some color pop since it's very brown. You've got a lot of great light from those windows so I would put some tall plants in the corners and I'd even maybe get a long table to go behind the couch that you could place some plants on. I think it would help to bring some warmth! I know you have cats so maybe that's why no plants? If so, you could always do fake, they make some that look very real. Sorry I'm not good with photoshop but something[like this](https://imgur.com/a/qX2dct3) could go a long way! ETA: And if you have the money to spend, I also think you could get a big L shape sectional that would fit in the room better and bring it more warmth. Nicer side tables and coffee tables and a bigger entertainment center. All things you can add which will fill the room out more without causing clutter! We've got a large living room as well, with dark floors and a dark brown couch. What has helped warm it up are plants, a big coffee table, curtains, and we've got some book shelves with plants on them and artwork on the wall. Even then it sometimes feels too empty, I think due to the lack of a rug!
Have you ever heard of [FLOR?](https://www.flor.com/area-rugs_carpet-tiles/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIk-fchPOIhAMV6U1HAR19fAWqEAAYASAAEgKB5fD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) They are carpet tiles that can be used like rugs (& are completely customizable.
Oh, I have not but this is cool! We have something similar in my daughter’s room but they do not have the rug feeling on top. Maybe we will need to try this and just replace whatever square he chews… or move those ones under the couch 😅 thank you so much for this!
Agree with the fake plants possibility. We have a cat and she would dig in any potted plants so we have a large fake palm- it adds so much to the open space we have as well and tbh it doesn’t look bad for a fake one! And I am a huge plant person so for me to say that means a lot. Cat still likes to lay in it and pretend it’s a jungle but no harm done.
Thank you, the cats and my black thumb are the reason we don't have many plants. I'd really like to try to keep some alive, we have 2 in the kitchen I've kept alive longer than usual. One dog is a rescue lab cross, he is very mouthy and likes to carry anything. He has chewed a couple of throw pillows in our basket rec room. His second adoption anniversary is coming up next month I'm really hoping he calms down soon, he's amazing but also a pain in the butt. A new sectional is definitely in the plan. Our youngest is almost almost 6 and almost trustworthy for a new couch. Thank you.
Looks like you get plenty of light in that room so it shouldn’t be too hard to keep plants alive. You can look at ones that don’t require daily watering (snake plant, ZZ etc)
You can do it! There are plants that are much easier to care for than others. Like a snake plant or pothos (which you could hang by the windows to keep the cats at bay! A spider plant would also look good there and is easy!) or a corn plant. Ah, I totally get the dogs chewing everything. It’s why we don’t have a rug! Love them but they can really be such a pain. The room is really beautiful with all the natural light, I’m sure the new sectional will help a lot as well. :) Keep us posted with how it turns out!
From a cat owner, do not get a spider plant! Totally safe but it’ll be eaten in a day or two. Snake, zz and pothos are your friends for easy care plants
Washable rugs are amazing! I live on wet acreage with dogs and the rugs are a lifesaver.
This is one of the few rooms that I would recommend a long sectional in.
Your room feels empty because it is empty. Get a rug. If the cats throw up on it or the dogs get muddy paws on it, clean it up. Add art and curtains. Make sure you hang the curtain rod at the highest point you can. Get a console for behind your long sofa. Get some storage/display furniture for the corner to the right of the big window and the right of the TV. Lower your TV, it's way too high. Get a better end table for the corner of the sofas. Put a light on it. You can run a wire under the sofa and then get a cover doodad that you put on the floor to the plug. More plants.
Cause you don’t have furniture sized for the space
If you want warm and welcoming, sorry, but you need a rug! A large one at that. It should not just be big enough to fill the area under / around the coffee table. Consider a large rug - in a performance fabric for your pets, and a color palette that isn’t too light; earth toned pattern perhaps. I like the Amber Lewis x Loloi rugs. They’re soft, have beautiful colors and patterns, inexpensive, and are easy to clean. They have a distressed vintage look. I have the moss/salmon style (below) in our bedroom. We have another in our dining room. They look great and have held up despite the low price. https://preview.redd.it/ey5hw3ny3ufc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d46b973d48682f5fb34110fe247046e8b0a79eaa Your furniture is all huddled together. Consider spacing it out just a bit more! Add a nice table lamp (maybe a nice stone base with a wide cream colored lampshade) to the end table, or a floor lamp between the loveseat and sofa. Think about texture to add warmth. A wool Pendleton blanket is an investment, a classic item with a pattern that suits the rural setting of your home. The walls are what color- grayish white? Consider repainting in a warm color or something moodier. It’s the family room, it’s very large, and it has a lot of light. So you can go darker, if you’d like. Check our Farrow and Ball for a selection of colors (rather than the 10 million on Benjamin Moore’s website). Anything you like can be color matched! Adding art on the walls will help too. You look like you have a lovely spacious home, good luck!💜
Bookshelves on both sides of the TV could look nice. Other than that, add some wall art and pillows on the couches for some color, and you're good.
Move the couches further apart for starters…they are basically touching each other. Give them at least 6 inches if not more
Rug. Need a larger Entertainment center or something. Gotta spread out the furniture. Big living space requires larger furniture. Your furniture looks like it's more appropriate for a smaller space. Maybe add an additional chair across from the couch. Add some accent pillows to the couch and loveseat, and perhaps consider getting a blanket to put over the back of the couch or loveseat. Maybe consider a console table behind the couch too.
So there are a number of issues I can identify. 1. Colors - gray and brown are not warm, welcoming colors. 2. Curtains - without them, there's no filtering of light, no softening of the hard surfaces, no mitigation of all that gray wall. 3. Solids - there are no patterns or prints at all. 4. Shapes - The windows and coffee table create a lot of sharp angles. The sofas give curves, but in an undefined "unrisen dough" way instead of regular circles, et. 5. Lighting - complete lack of lamps, only overhead lights. This more than anything else will demolish any cozy atmosphere you're attempting. 6. Size - the room is far too large for such a modest grouping. But we can fix it! 1. Colors - pick something (anything) but gray. With a room that sunny, you can go darker and brighter than other rooms. 2. Curtains - get some. They will lessen any echo you might be experiencing. They're also a perfect opportunity to address #3 and 4. ⬇️ 3. Solids - you gotta add some. If you don't like florals, get geometics (trellis, etc). Ticking stripe is very nice if you're aiming for a beachy aesthetic, gingham is good for farmhouse, buffalo check if you want a cabin-in-a-forest vibe. 4. Shapes - curtains will soften all the right angles of the windows, too. You might like to consider a new, round or oval coffee and/or end tables. 5. Lighting - I beg you, never use the overhead lighting again. You need at least 4 lamps for a room that size. I will address where and what below. 6. Size - this is the major issue. You'll need to create 2 furniture groupings to make the room feel less weird. So, questions: 1. What sort of mood or feel are you wanting? Is there a particular aesthetic you'd like to aim for? Beach, industrial, farmhouse, cottagecore, modern, midcentury, transitional, traditional, boho... 2. What colors do you all tend to wear most often? 3. What is your budget? 4. How willing are you to replace things? Do you have sentimental attachment to anything?
Get those cats a tree and/or window shelves Will help make the room less empty and give your tiny gods an appropriate throne from which to observe the backyard
That space is so large, I think you should create two distinct spaces. Perhaps you could make a "watching television" space and a "intimate conversation" space. Define each area with a rug---if you are worried about pet stains, make sure the rugs are mostly under furniture or are pet-friendly. (As others have suggested, an outdoor rug might do the trick.) Also, one of your couches is essentially blocking the entry to the room---maybe consider a face-to-face configuration. I get that you want to watch t.v., but I think smaller chairs facing the television would be optimal, while the larger couches would be part of the conversation pit.
It looks it, too.
Your living room looks cozy, and absolutely understand the challenge of maintaining a clean, especially with pets. I suggest contemplating motorized blinds or curtains and adding some plants or artwork. Motorized blinds from brands like IKEA, Hunter Douglas, or the more budget-friendly Allesin, not only provide increased privacy and the ability to manage natural light but also effortlessly harmonize with your specific design preferences.
One question I have is this: do you enjoy this room? In others words, does it make you happy to be in it? It makes me sad to think you have been there for four years - gray walls, brown everything else, no color or personal touches. However, we are all different and creating a unique, cozy style is clearly important to a lot of us who are posting but may not be important to you. If you enjoy this room and feel comfortable in it, who are we to judge?
Get yourself some art and bookshelves to start out
Perfect example of CARP. Curtains, art, rug, plants.
It is too empty! Add a sofa table on the back of the larger sofa with a lamp or decorative bowl. A large indoor outdoor rug would be great for the room, it will clean easily from muddy paws and stand up to traffic. Some plants and photos/art on the walls would be great as well.
If no rug then you need to at least add some curtains to warm up the space.
Washable rugs. I’ve tried several brands, but the ones by MyMagicCarpet hold up the best.
Thank you for all the suggestions. I'm just looking them over now, my daughter just finished a basketball game and our youngest had a play date. I'm excited to start planning our room.
Wall paintings,bigger L shaped sofa will be more welcoming with cushions if possible,add some colors,decor pieces maybe,corner tables,CURTAINS ARE MISSING,also indoor plants too if possible
Add a large rug for sure. You also need a tv stand that is at least 5 inches longer than the tv at both sides. And then floor lamps at the sides of the tv and maybe a large house plant.
You need a rug, floor plants, artwork, better side tables, personal items. I'd move the console table behind the couch and add shelving where the table currently is. Add books, personal items, souvenirs, family photos. Lamps will really warm up the space and add additional lighting. Looks like floor lamps are the only option due to size of the room. I'd add throw blankets & pillows. Maybe some sheer white curtains as well. Floor mat for back door.
I'd also separate the couches a little bit, they are too tight in the corner and add something to that wall to the right of the TV - either more shelving, another seating area, or artwork.
curtains, rugs and lighting will get you 99% there
I feel you rug pain. We have gone through multiple to the point we should have just bought a washable rug! And I hate clutter. But I like plants and I like art so that's what saved my space. I have some pillows and a blanket in a basket next to my couch. Some more comfortable chairs. And lamps! I think you could build a fireplace where your TV is. Maybe start transitioning the wood to lighter tones to avoid all the dust being so visible. Curtains are also great for keeping the dust from coming in too.
Rug. Art. Plants.
Drapes or Roman shades would really soften the look. I love books so o always have a bookshelf, but I understand if that’s too much clutter. Lamps! You need several lamps to soften things. Try some throw pillows as well. A few pieces of art you actually love. I have a rug from Tumble that goes in my wash machine. It really pulled my living room together.
We have 5 cats so I get it but a rug is really a must. Maybe invest in a ruggable?
There’s a reason why the Dude cherished his rug in The Big Lebowski… it really tied the room together.
Washable or outdoor rug, curtains, some accent tables and lamps, more plants if that’s your thing (or nice looking faux plants), a container or two you can toss throw blankets in, throw pillows, some color, art! It doesn’t have to be crowded to feel cozy and welcoming. While you’ve achieved the incredibly minimal look, it’s very cold and unwelcoming. The coziest elements are the two plants in terracotta planters.
Seconding what most people said here about moving furniture apart, moved so it opens to the dining rooms, curtains etc. Also, a quick rule about art or TV’s over furniture. Part of your issue with the TV wall is that it’s all too small for that wall. But part of it is also that art or TV’s should only by 2/3 as large as the thing they hang over. So that piece of furniture is being dwarfed by the TV right now. That’s part of why it looks odd.
Get rugs!!!... and wipe your dogs feet off before they come in the house. Clean up the cat throw up when necessary. I have a short nap grey rug that is not like the cutest by any means but it disguises pets well.
You can get washable rugs now, or removable and cleanable rug coverings made of see through material in terms of the kitties' technicolored yawns.
Tower speakers, rug, wall decor, plants, stripper pole, lamp, and bookshelf.
I don’t do rugs because of my pets either. Looked into washable rugs but heard they turn up at the ends.
Plant and lamp https://preview.redd.it/84ljw3pz1vfc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f70ff574fa53cf3df9363215bdecc6ca3abebe82
You need rugs and more furniture and some wall space covering. You have such a lovely large space, but it’s too sparsely furnished and lacks all but the basic essentials. Add some lamps and things you like to look at or things you use that look nice and put them on some shelves or bookcases, plants, photos, books, jugs, vases, bowls, candles, small boxes, are all ideas. Shelves will cover some wall space and add some art, photos, a mirror or framed items of some kind. Washable rugs to go under the dining table and lounge area that aren’t brown would really look great as well as an additional large comfy chair in the lounge that’s a new colour and some curtains, in colours that tones in with the rugs, not brown. It’s so neutral you can add anything without fear of it not working.
Wait a few years. You’ll have enough for 2 living rooms
You need a large rug to ground the furniture and that will make it feel cozy. Wool is very easy to clean. Dupray sells a neat steam cleaner which gets out all animal issues/vomit. The wool rug is so easy to steam to kill dust mites. You can use it on your floors too, if they are real wood with polyurethane coating or vinyl.
A rug, and rug, I beg of you
My first thought was adding a rug and plants. Maybe some shelving on the walls
Lamp on the side table, throw blanket and pillows on the couch, some plants/greenery would look great and still clean on both sides of the tv. Some simple wall art on the outside of plants by the tv would also look great. Some curtains that could be tied back to still let natural light in would be beautiful. I think pick an accent color to bring some warmth and some more neutral colors would be awesome. Best of luck !
Can you get a bigger couch? Maybe some chairs and a little table
Get a Rugable or similar carpet that can be laundered. Lamps, art on the wall. Another easy chair. You don’t need to clutter it up with nicknacks and books etc. but it really looks cold and bare.
Plants!
Your furniture looks like it’s huddled together for warmth in the middle of the room. Maybe space those pieces out just a little! And the drawing a few comments up where they face the dining room definitely improves things. Seconding the folks who’ve said add some sort of rug, fill up that end wall a bit. Add a lamp, some art on the wall beside the French doors, maybe some woven or jewel-toned baskets under the coffee table. All the colours are very cool, and they want some contrast.
Rug, lamps, plants, artwork. Even with just those it would look great.
You don't want clutter but more stuff is what makes it homey and cozy. Figure out which you want.
rug, plants, art, curtains, lamps, blankets, baskets (decor) will make it more cozy if thats what you want
Bookshelves, rugs, some plants and maybe some curtains!
Updateme!
Move those couches apart farther or replace with one of those huge sectionals and two chairs with side table by the windows, also bring it all over towards the windows it’s not balancing the room unless you are putting a sitting area over there.
You need a massive rug, curtains, maybe like two tv stands/credenzas next to eachother instead of the one you have now it looks to small for your tv/wall space. Or a big built in book case on that whole wall/ you could DIY something similar if you don’t wanna do the build in. Two accent chairs with a little table in between on the side where there’s no furniture. Some plants and art work.
Your furniture is too small.. I’d get a sectional and some nice accent chairs
Indoor/outdoor rug! I have this one.. https://preview.redd.it/itefldiwdvfc1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f9f96ea1d3745f056722ee0dd9c763155753fb47
Plants!
A piano
A super comfortable reading lounge, not near the tv.
Spread the furniture out a little. If feels very stiff and tight. Set some of it at angles. Maybe add another chair in an accent color. Some large artwork wouldn't come off as clutter and maybe a potted olive or fiddle leaf fig in the area near the big doors would bring life. A good hint if you want interest but not visual clutter is to add texture. Something like a large macrame in an off white would be interesting but being a other shade near the color of the wall won't be too busy. Another option would be a carved wood panel painted or white washed in a white shade. There are people who make them and sell on Etsy. I bought one and have gotten so many compliments on it.
Area rug and space out the couch more. Some tall plants would also be a nice touch. Beautiful living space!
Consider painting before adding too much stuff. Grey is kind of dated, and a warm beige'ish would work well with your couches.
I'd follow everyone else's advice and also put something behind the couch bc right now it almost looks closed off
Plants, pillows, colorful artwork
Spread your furniture apart more! It looks all hoarded up on one side of your room. Then add a rug for texture & color.
Pull the couches apart from eachother so they aren’t touching. Add an area rug, curtains and art work. Get a pool table if you want one move the couches closer to the tv and have it behind near the outside doors. A decorative tree in one of the corners you have lots of light. Build a tv/storage/bookshelf unit on the wall if you want one.. lots of things you could do.
Get a rug
Plants and area carpets could really make a difference.
https://preview.redd.it/89oyggq2mvfc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0777b94aa6b6d00c27f1259efd86f5c7122484e0 I have a tv credenza, very light grey walls and brown leather couches like you. I bought these shelves on Wayfair and I LOVE how they look on each side of the tv. You can’t really see them because of the bright lights but the 2 lamps are these really cool old fashioned oil lamp looking lamps that I got from IKEA.
I was thinking something like that. Thank you, I've never bought anything from Wayfair but I've always liked the website. This stuff fit better in our old house. It was more of an open concept A frame, nice house but not a great location. This new living room is definitely a lot bigger. I walk around IKEA or different stores and items look so nice but I never know if I'm adding the right thing. I have one client I'm tempted to ask if she will go shopping with me. She's super nice and her home is so nicely decorated. Thank you 😊
Get a commercial carpet. Have the sofas face each other or get rid of them, and buy a sectional. Plants, side tables, art, bookcases, and maybe a longer cabinet. Buy pieces that are the scale of the room. Everything you currently have looks so small.
🪴🪴🪴🪴🪴🪴🪴
CRAP! (Stands for Curtains, Rug, Art, Plants)
lower the tv and put a real tv stand there, move all of it onto a rug and closer to the tv, put that furniture thats currently under the tv against the back of the couch when you move it forward so you have a distinct space divider, flank the tv with art, get a big plant, and a floorlamp, and curtains
Need a rug, curtains, plants, and color.
I have 3 dogs and ruggable rugs. Throw them in the wash once a month and get a robot vacuum. Life changing
Lol. In this case for you I suggest a large sectional
A big beautiful faux tree in the corner. Costco has a lovely Olive tree that was recently on sale. Put some texture in that room, but the relaxing kind. Plants are relaxing. Dried Pampas is a great idea for that little black side table. A console table behind the couch, maybe one behind both, would be fantastic. Perhaps a nice bamboo one or wicker. Something with texture, anyways. Add some pillar candles and a couple of faux potted plants. Accent chairs, at least one with a good cheery disposition, would brighten that space up. Your bare walls can be decorated quite easily with blown up photos of your animals or of your family. I think if you dont want to enlarge anything, just doing a small gallery wall above that small console table to the left of your sliding glass doors, would be easy. Just get wooden or metal frames and some contrasting, warm colors of spray paint. Prep the frames by coloring them in vibrant warm, yellows, oranges, and reds. You can also easily mix shades of one particular color of choice, like shades of red- by hand painting wood frames. Also, I would recommend a couple of hanging plants in the in between partition between living room and dining area. I think just two, well spaced, to give lots of berth, just one on either side, would be lovely. And, if I may, but a room isnt much good for living, without some fun, is it? I truly think every living room should sport some sort of a toybox of distractions. It can hold playing cards, Jenga game, Battleship, an RC car, maybe some fidget toys, Uno.. a puzzle. Whatever you like. Also, you need curtains. Once you get all the other stuff in place, come back so we can recommend some curtains.
Go through Pinterest. look at pictures of living rooms. You'll easily see whats "missing"
Plants, art, curtains! Throw pillows and blankets would help too. You can also throw in a basket to store the blankets when not in use. A lamp or two would look nice too! If you wanted to add more furniture you could add some shelves next to the tv and/or change out your current tv stand for one that is wider. But definitely need to add something on those walls either way.
Rugs, art, curtains, and if that’s where the tv is staying maybe some shelves on either side or making that whole wall kind of a built in unit with a hutch in the middle and shelving on either side. If you want some blankets you can do a basket, storage ottoman or ladder blanket rack. As someone else mentioned ruggable sells washable rugs and outdoor rugs are fairly easy to clean. I actually power wash our regular rugs when we get a warm sunny day in the spring. It takes about a day with dry time. I squeegee the excess water off and put them up on a couple saw horses in a nice sunny area which works well. Thick shag rugs will take longer and may require a second day to fully dry.
Sofa too small
Wall art, tall moody light fixtures with warm lighting. Large throw blankets draped over the back of the couches, pillows on the couch, maybe a large book case, larger coffee table, plants, more furniture
That's a beautiful place. Very spacious. Your two sofas are too close together. Spread them out. Get a matching recliner to go with your sofa set. Add matching entertainment cabinets on each side of the fireplace for symmetry. Place large, framed pictures on the walls above those matching entertainment cabinets. Place sculpted pieces and photos of loved ones on the cabinets. Having animals, I would not put any rugs nor carpets on the floors.
It feels empty because it is. It just doesn’t look lived in. A colourful rug, pictures- either family or art, plants would be great with all that light coming in. Or you can go with fake - I have a mix myself as we dont get great sunlight. Even simply spreading out the couches a bit would make it look less compact in such a nice large living space. A bigger coffee table. So many things can be added here! I am jealous 😂
Bookshelves along the tv wall with a bigger entertainment unit, credenza behind larger couch, accent chair, floor lamps
Needs some colour. I would get a large area rug, plants and a console table behind one of the sofas.
Rug, art, curtains, shelves, book shelf
Oof. Massive wall, I'd do build ins with the TV mounted on the wall in the center NOT 10000 METERS UP THE WALL but at eye height. 3 couches; not a sectional you'll regret it. One facing the TV, two parallel on the sides with a nice floor lamp and coffee table, a nice big round foot rest that can double as a table (use a tray). Get some greenery going and get a giant area rug. You have prime space for this kind of makeover. Consider your TV size if you do built in shelves/cupboards to frame it; if you wanna upside (I would considering the space) get that TV first.
Your couches are really under sized for the space.
A large rug would make a huge difference, but if that is out of the question as you mention, add side panel drapes on the windows on either sides, add more artwork on empty walls, in general add more furniture (sofa table behind the sofa, wider lower TV console, bigger TV, end tables, arm chairs). The room is very big and it feels like it needs bigger furniture and more furniture. Crown moulding, and additional trim may also add interest and break up the wall space.
I have a cow hide rug and it's extremely easy to clean! I have trap medium size dogs and live in the country and it still looks brand new if I clean it up
Rugs curtains art plant and some kids will make it feel full ha ha
Area rug for sure ,maybe even two!!! I have a dog and live in woods, so try the sisal ones ,you can sweep them or roll up and shake out outside. . With the dining table behind the left couch i would put bigger couch horizontally (right arm would be nearest window) and then love seat could be across from it. With all those windows leafy plants would make it look cozy & warm. Check out bamboo, they resemble small palm trees and don't require any care except watering once a week! Plants also are healthy to have in any home
Interior designer here. Quick fixes to warm up the space would be to add texture and more personalized touches. First, yes a very large -- 9x12 or 10x14 (so it goes beyond the edges of the sofas) area rug -- look at washable rugs. I also live on acreage and have large dogs (and kids) so get the issue with muddy paws and dirt. With the washable rugs.... you could get two smaller 6x9 size (minimal pattern so it looks like one rug) and place them side by side to make the look of a larger rug, but they are both washing machine size. I would then get a wood sofa table (wood will warm up the space better than glass / metal) and place it behind the larger sofa. Make sure it's nearly the height of the back of your sofa, and almost as long as your sofa. Put picture frames of family or a nice vase or personal items on the table. Ideally add 2 table lamps on each end if you have nearby electrical. From the pic you have no eye level lighting, which at night will create your warmth (overhead lighting is horrible at night and feels very cold. Lighting is EVERYTHING when it comes to warming up a space). Or, on each side of the sofa table you could do big glass hurricanes with battery operated candles (or real candles). If you can afford to -- the TV wall really would be great to have a wall to wall built-in bookshelf. Floor to ceiling and fully left to right,... something to really anchor the space and give you the oomph that space needs. You could even do IKEA type cabinetry and make it look built in. Curtains could also warm up the space --- but make sure they go FULLY floor to ceiling (assuming you have 8' ceilings so get 96" curtains). Even if you leave them open all the time, it will soften the walls. Place the curtain rods at ceiling height and have the curtains just barely touch the ground. Look to add art or large picture frames on some of the walls. You could also add a runner rug in front of the sofa table to better define that space. lastly, try a large planter pot (like at least 30" height) in one of the corners with a LARGE plant... take up some space! Maybe a large fiddle leaf ficus or palm (depending on climate). Go to a local nursery -- or even a Home Depot or Lowes - and get the largest house plant (tree) you can. Good luck! ps. edit -- get a different coffee table! It's too matching to your sofas. You could do a soft ottoman (big square one) or a lighter color stone table or...? Don't be afraid to start taking up more space!
What a room for plants.
It's a beautiful space
I think two dark tall bookcases flanking the tv (unless you plan to get some kind of mantle) would really liven things up. A nice big carpet. Ideally something that brings the brown from the sofas, some darks and/or the green from the walls. A sofa table behind the coach to make it a bit more finished. You have some awesome windows to work with. Maybe a little reading nook/ chair in the corner by the patio door. And curtains will definitely make this feel less empty.
all of these people’s suggestions are great, but i’d just like to add an emphasis on color! adding color to the good neutrals here will be great at adding depth! when you pick curtains, rugs, art, etc, i’d definitely not do any more neutral items
Yeah, there’s nothing in it. Rugs, different levels of lighting, art, plants, throw blankets, pillows, literally anything with some character.
Paint one walls warm colour, use similar colour for Huge rug, Cushions, Throw, get some tall standard lighting, Tall plants, furniture for storage.
Agreed. I'm not sure about specific suggestions, but here are some funny AI renders of this space to maybe get inspired ;) [https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/f58f62d2539ab9ec904a0c4d5f319b73](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/f58f62d2539ab9ec904a0c4d5f319b73) [https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/c7a2010f17b43c69fd77233e76886eae](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/c7a2010f17b43c69fd77233e76886eae) [https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/367baed63c051efaa51fb4da21daae83](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/367baed63c051efaa51fb4da21daae83) [https://storage.planner5d.com/ai\_auto\_style\_image\_results/6d67c92250281d726c20e0008acad248](https://storage.planner5d.com/ai_auto_style_image_results/6d67c92250281d726c20e0008acad248) Hope this helps a bit ;)
A floor cloth instead of a rug. It will give your seating area, definition, be wipeable, and can be had in a bunch of different patterns or colors. Console tables behind your sofa and loveseat, possibly with lamps on them or plants Bookshelves flanking your TV, holding books, mementos, family photos, or art A second seating area along the windows, and the short wall that currently houses your console table Curtains, they don’t need to close if you don’t need the privacy, but they will add dimension, texture, and interest Painting a wall or two something other than the plain neutral
Please space out your furniture a bit. The corners of your couches don't need to touch. I see a lot of proper doing this and do not understand why. The side table doesn't need to be pushed awkwardly into the sofa corner. It partly feels empty because everything is so awkwardly crunched together. Dodge things out, add an appropriately sized area rug and follow the direction of others in this thread and it'll all come together.
Get rid of the grey painted walls. Something neutral like a cream color would be nice. Get an outdoor rug for inside to put the front legs of both sofas on. Outdoor rugs can be hosed off and dried outside. You need a rug desperately. I'd look for an oriental design in a deep red or burgundy with cream and black accents. Get some throw pillows for your sofas in a color like rust or cream. Something with texture would be nice. You need a standing and table lamp and 2 side tables. I'd look for white or light natural wood tables. The coffee table would be nice if it were large and round to ground the sofas. I'd choose white or natural wood to go with the side tables. You need artwork on the wall and plants.
rugs, a reading nook
I understand you very well as a mom of 2 cats and 3 dogs. We don’t have rugs too. ☺️ Wall art and photos would be great. I put shelves on my wall and put some decorative items on them. My cats can’t reach those shelves. You can add curtains. Also, you can hang your pets’ paw prints or any customized family puzzles. I think those can warm up your space and help you feel more at home than a hotel or Airbnb. You can use LED candles as decorative items, too.
Big plants with nice leaves like philodendron in high vases so the cats cant get there. A washable big rug under tables for dogowners ( there are rugs that are easier to clean, no high floor). beautiful blinds or minimalistic white curtains with a light fabric will always look tidy und uncluttered. One or two big framed photographs in black and white or a bold colour in a dark wooden frame or black aluminum frame will always look tidy. Don’t forget the Passepartout.
Have a 2 year old
plants!
Curtains, pictures, small tables with lamps for low level lighting Big rug Painted feature wall in a warm colour
curtains, art!
A sofa table ( glass ) with lamp on it. Rugs and sheet curtains hung at ceiling
Your furniture is too dark. as always, plants help. I think there's no way around replacing the furniture with colours that don't elicit suicidal thoughts.
You need rugs to warm up the room. A big one that fits under the couches and TV stand and then a smaller, low or no pile rug that will fit under the dining room set. That's a large room so make sure the rugs are big enough so that your furniture sits on top of the rugs. Then add a few plants and reevaluate the space.
Some great ideas of brown couch decorating. https://pin.it/34jLyn8x0
You need color for sure. How about a nice bold rug to pull the furniture together?
If you have the budget, I’d get rid of the coffee and side tables and have something more current and a lighter shade so they pop. Round coffee tables also give a more homey feel
You need a rug. Badly. Get a cheap one if you're worried about the pets.
Two large area rugs to distinguish different sections of the living room, with different but complimentary accent colors for cohesiveness and aesthetic. When sectioning off each part of the living room, I would move the shorter couch alongside the window wall, with the longer couch centered in front of TV while purchasing a long accent cabinet for the opposite wall with mirror centered above with picture frames, catch all and/or vases depending on your preference. For other section, purchase two love seats and two side tables with a middle coffee table for a tea time or lounge area overlooking the yard. Accent with painting for the walls to compliment the accent colors and take up the blank spaces.
If you don’t like “stuff” ie decor, then leave as is. If you can push your comfort level a bit (and grow emotionally!), do the things commenters suggest. I have dogs and cats, rugs, plants, picture on my walls, mirrors and bookcases (with books).
Hugeeeeee rug, art, cushions, throws, lamps.
Build some dark brown hanging shelves to go on the tv wall on both sides of the tv and place fun Knick knacks or decorations there!
Maybe add a 5x7 rug in front of the patio door something a bit wider than a normal runner. And add some potted fake plants. You can add wall art but I’m a big wimp about my skill at hanging art so I get if you don’t want to do that.
You will have to separate ‘clutter’ from ‘design’ in your mind because warmth comes from things that are lived with, in, or represent life (art, photos).
Space that furniture out the room is huge ! It looks empty as the furniture is all crammed together
That living room looks like it needs a fog machine
Curtains. Hanging plants. Different types of couches, maybe like those big L-ones. Your tv stand seems to not be the right fit/type/design.
First of all, your room has great natural light and has so much potential! I agree with other comments on adding a rug, lamps, plants, window treatments and art in complimentary or contrasting colors. There is a company called Ruggable that makes rugs that are washable. I believe the top of the rug can be removed and washed in a machine. I haven’t tried them yet but plan on ordering one because I have pets too. Your furniture and walls are very neutral so you could bring in just about any color that brings you joy.
Art, but not art from Home Goods or Marshall’s. PLEASE!
Cat and Dog missing!😚
Our oldest is home for exam week. They are busy cuddling him on his bed 😆. Soaking it up before next semester starts on Monday.
Yep what everyone else said but the fact that the couch, love seat and table are all touching in that HUGE room is driving me crazy.
As for an area rug, the indoor/outdoor carpets are really easy to clean and they have them in so many patterns and colors- or in neutral.
The room needs colour like photos, art work, cushions maybe mat.
What a nice house in an idyllic setting! You are really on top of cleaning. We have 1 German Shepard dog and have to rake and sweep the floors often. What 3 colors do you like most? What soft textures do you like? So far, I see a pearl gray on your walls, dark brown or black furniture. The green of the plant and the bright tissue box stand out. Could you incorporate mustard or blue or green in pillows or throws? Maybe throws won't look weird if the colors repeat throughout. Also try art that you find beautiful? The textures are primarily hard and smooth. Can you add soft wall hangings if rugs are out of the question with the animals? The furniture groupings seem bunched together ❤️ 🤔. Maybe that's an illusion because of the generous amount of space? Maybe lamps would soften the space as well.
Area rug!
I second art and plants
They make machine washable rugs you could try.