PROPERTY NEWS - In most homes, the living room is the most spacious room, often connected to the dining room and, in some cases, leading into an open-plan kitchen.
Regardless of the size, the living room should be a space for relaxation and entertaining. "A perfect living room is all about creating a comfortable and cosy living space that is both visually and functionally appealing, while remaining fun and catering to one's need to either watch movies, entertain guests or curl up and read a book," says Craig Hutchison, CEO of Engel & Völkers Southern Africa.
"If you have a large family, create a child-friendly space that is also very stylish - it should be a space the whole family can share. Spend some time on designing your living room. To avoid wasting money, plan ahead and make sure that what you have planned for is what you really need."
Since the living room is the main area guests see when spending time in your home, it makes sense to ensure it's both well-decorated and comfortable. For winter, aim to create a warm interior using chunky knit cushions, faux-fur throws and woollen rugs. "Creating a cosy living area isn't necessarily about turning up the heat and huge electricity bills, but more about how you dress the area during the colder months so that it looks and feels warmer," says Hutchison.
Ways to spice up the living room for winter
Whether it's a quick change or a complete overhaul, here are a few ways to spice up your family's favourite room:
- Create a cosy atmosphere with furniture
- Bring those comfortable sofas and occasional chairs a little closer together around a central coffee table to create a cosy conversation zone.
Throws to suit
Adding throws is an easy way to try new patterns and colours in the living room, without any major commitment. Drape a throw over the back of a sofa for an inviting look or add a faux-fur throw for texture and warmth.
Rugs
Save your feet from chilly tiled floors with a rug or carpet. Not only will it add warmth, but rugs can also help define the seating area and make the living room look and feel warmer.
Fireplace
We would all really love a fireplace in winter. Why not consider installing one? For the easiest installation, choose a direct-vent gas fireplace - it has no gas odours and very effective gas consumption.
No chimney or extraction is required because this vent-free fireplace gives you all the heat you need, with the added benefit of no smoke.
Add warmth with lighting
Brighten up your living room in winter with beautiful lights that will create a warm atmosphere. Dress up a side table with a beautiful lamp or hang a chandelier above the coffee table to make a statement. If you're on a budget, use decorative aromatic candles to create cost-effective cosy lighting.
Personalise the space
Make the space unique by creating a photo gallery on a wall. You could also fill shelves with books you love and family holiday souvenirs.
