Your living room is where you entertain guests, so most homeowners want it to look as striking and lovely as possible. There are endless design choices to use in your living room, with much of it boiling down to personal preference. If you want a more natural look, here is how to achieve it.
Incorporate Lots of Natural Light
Nothing complements a natural look like natural light. You can add skylights later or incorporate them and large windows from the beginning. Natural light has many benefits such as being easier on the eyes, providing essential vitamin D and making a room appear more open. It can also save you significant costs in electricity because you will not need to have the lights on as often. Avoid heavy curtains as they will block the light.
Have Plants
Potted plants can add character and life to a room, sometimes even making it feel like a garden. They have health benefits such as providing clean air and reducing stress. Nothing makes a room feel more natural than living things, some of which can be quite stunning and beautiful. If you have children or pets be sure to choose plants that are not toxic and learn about proper plant care if you are not already familiar with the subject. That way your plants can stay vibrant and healthy.
Use Natural Building Materials
You can also heavily utilize natural building materials to create the look you are hoping to achieve in your living room. Sandstone in particular can look very stunning, as can wood if you are going for a log cabin feel. Other natural materials like bamboo, adobe or even brick can be used in the design as well to give the room more character.
Photo by Mark English Architects, AIA
Put in a Wood Fireplace
A wood burning fireplace, along with its mantle, can be a stunning addition to your living room. These types of fireplaces give rooms a more natural feel than gas fireplaces. You will need a chimney to vent it properly which needs to be cleaned regularly as to not create a fire hazard. There is nothing cozier than spending time with your family or friends in front of a nice warm fire with the faint scent of smoke in the air, especially on a cold winter’s night.
There are many ways to add a more natural feel to your living room. You can do it with more natural building materials, decorations and design choices. Consider any of these ideas, among others, when it comes time to design or upgrade your living room.