How to Style Your Living Room Like a Pro

Do you have most of your major furniture but want your living room to have that “professionally decorated” look? Are you happy with your furnishings but want to take your decor to the next level with all of the finishing touches? Today I want to share with you seven essential ideas and items that will give your living room a “professionally decorated” look!

1. Declutter

One of the easiest (and least expensive) ways to give your living room an elevated, professionally decorated look is to remove any clutter that has accumulated on the surfaces in your space. You will want to remove anything outdated or items you no longer use- your room should be filled with items that are either functional, beautiful or things you love!

2. Large Area Rug

Most living rooms have rugs, but many of the rugs I see are too small for the space. A good rule of thumb is that all the sofas and chairs should have at least the front two legs on the rug. A large area rug will add softness and texture to the room, it will quiet the space, and the larger the rug, the larger it will make your room look!

3. Drapery Panels

Many people’s living rooms have what I call “naked windows”! They may have shutters or blinds for light control, but most professionally decorated rooms have some sort of soft window treatments. I prefer simple drapery panels and install them high and wide to make the space look larger and let in the most natural light.

4. Lamp Lighting

There is nothing worse than being in a living room with all overhead lighting. It feels institutional and very unflattering! Professional decorators and designers always incorporate lamps (floor or table) into living rooms to give them a warm, inviting feeling.

5. Large Wall Decor

Another thing you will see in professionally decorated living rooms is large-scale wall decor like mirrors, canvas art, or gallery walls. Many people use artwork that is the wrong scale for their walls. Always measure your space and consider the size and shape (vertical/horizontal) when furnishing your walls.

6. Incorporate Greenery and Nature

Professional decorators and designers always bring the outdoors inside and use a variety of plants, stems and trees in their living rooms- nothing will bring a room to life quite like natural greenery (it can be real or a high-quality faux)!

7. Gorgeous Pillows and Throws

Most professionally styled living rooms incorporate beautiful, bold accent pillows and luxurious throw blankets. Adding these to your upholstered seating will give your room both visual interest and comfort! (Pro tip: Always use fewer but larger pillows!)

For even more pro tips and ideas for styling your entire home- get my free home styling guide- click HERE to learn more!!