A LIVING room is meant to be a place to gather and unwind, so it is an ideal location to implement a simple style. Incorporating a minimalist design style is an easy way to take a step back from the noise and chaos of day-to-day life, so you can relax in a space that feels intentional and calming.
To help you update your living space, we are sharing our best plain living room ideas.
Use clean lines and basic shapes
Pair angular furniture with simple, classic shapes to create a minimalist look without sacrificing function. Here, a large round mirror and circular coffee table soften the lines in this neutral living space, while cosy textiles offer inviting texture.
When decorating a sparse room, opt for luxe textures and fabrics, such as blankets and rugs, to add comfort and personality that typically comes from artwork or decor.
Hang a statement mirror
To make a minimalist living room look large and airy, hang a statement mirror above the fireplace.
If the fireplace is not an option, dress up an otherwise blank wall. In this simple room, the lack of a traditional mantel makes the large octagonal mirror pop.
Crisp shiplap adds understated farmhouse style that works well as a backdrop, while a vibrant patterned rug keeps the room from falling flat.
Lean on natural textures
With limited decor and a neutral colour palette, it is easy for minimalist living room designs to appear boring.
An easy way to prevent this is to embrace natural textures wherever possible. Here, wood, leather and jute accents lend texture to a neutral rug and linen sofa for an inviting, earthy feel.
Streamline your colour palette
This one-colour living room busts the myth that minimalist spaces have to be all white. To add colour without clutter, opt for a single colour with subtle variations on the hue. Here, green wall paint creates a serene backdrop for the green sofa and velvet armchairs. Small accents of warm yellow and gold make the space feel warm and inviting without taking over.
Embrace natural light
If you are lucky enough to have large windows in your living room, embrace natural light as a decor element.
It instantly creates a bright, airy atmosphere that makes your space appear larger and more open.
In this space, high ceilings and large, curtain-free windows allow colourful furniture to pop without overwhelming the minimalist living room.
Invest in practical pieces
One of the tenets of minimalist design is that all furniture used in the space should be functional.
Add storage to hide clutter
A living room needs to be a functional gathering place, no matter which decorating style you choose. If you have a lot of clutter, like electronic gadgets or kids’ toys, look for storage solutions that will keep everything accessible, but out of sight. Here, simple furniture pieces and white built-ins keep the room looking sparse while providing ample storage space for all your family movie night essentials.
Opt for neutral colours
Various shades of white and cream give this minimalist living room a tranquil feel. The stark white brick fireplace complements off-white walls and a cream-coloured rug, adding a subtle dimension without introducing new colours. The neutral foundation allows a statement coffee table to take centre stage and imbue the living area with personality.
Start with texture
This living room has a lot of texture, but the neutral colour palette creates an airy feel. Aside from the couch, every piece of furniture has an open base with minimal weight, which fits the minimalist aesthetic. The thin legs of the coffee table, ottomans and accent chairs create more visual floor space, giving the impression that the space is larger than it really is.
Embrace an accent colour
Minimalism does not have to be void of colour. While many minimalist living rooms feature neutral wall colours, it is entirely possible to embrace a brighter shade while maintaining a streamlined look. — bhg.com




