The kitchen may be the heart of the home, but the lounge is often the most used space. From cosy comforts to sleek and chic, Susan Griffin looks at living room styles 

THERE’S a reason lounges are known as the living room, because they’re exactly that. A lounge can really make a house a home – it’s a place to relax with loved ones, snuggle on the sofa after a long day’s work, or chat with friends, so it’s no wonder that it’s often the room people prioritise when it comes to decorating.

“When picking a style for your lounge, quite often the answer lies in what fits best with what you have got already,” says Roger Mears, who set up Roger Mears Architects in 1980 (mears.co.uk).

“If the building is in a period style, for example, a classic approach could be best. If it’s a country house, a traditional feel would sit naturally, rather than imposing these onto a new-build where these might look fake. It’s always good to go with the flow, and express a style with honesty.”

There are occasions when rules can be bent, though.

“Even in the most traditional of settings, there can be a feature that’s so outstanding (old floorboards, a period staircase, decorative ceilings) that a monochrome, contemporary minimalist look could really highlight.”

As Roger says: “The final choice should be what resonates with your personality and lifestyle as well as your house, rather than a passing trend.”

CONTEMPORARY

THE contemporary living room should be bright, ooze sophistication, maybe revel in current trends but more importantly provide comfort.

“Create a lighter richness and contemporary feel by complementing sumptuous deep colours with clean white lines,” suggests Jeremy Garrish, buyer for Carpetright.

A striking carpet or a bold wall feature will help to create a particular mood without being overbearing and makes for a family-friendly option as muddy feet are harder to spot.

Another option is to use furniture and accessories in similar shades but different textures throughout the room, from sofas and rugs to cushions.

“A statement sofa can provide a striking focal point to the room and it’s the perfect canvas from which to build a modern scheme,” says Emma Rackley, upholstery buyer for Furniture Village.

Accompany the sofa with sleek furniture (curved edges are popular at the moment) such as coffee and lamp tables, in a contemporary metallic or glass finish.

TRADITIONAL

THINK of the traditional lounge and heavy oak beams, log fires and encompassing leather sofas spring to mind. The good news is it’s not too difficult to create your very own cosy haven within the confines of your home.

“Choosing the right combination of fabrics and colour schemes is key to achieving the right traditional look for your lounge,” says Emma. “Muted tones and soft hues combined with classic wooden furniture and classic side lamps will help to bring a traditional feel together.”

Jeremy adds: “Or add rich, autumnal colours to your floor to create a cosy retreat you’ll never want to leave. Match with dark leather furniture and wooden accessories for a traditional feel.”

CLASSIC

THE key to creating a classic living room is to keep it simple, so forget the chintz.

“Classic living rooms draw on many historic design periods but steer clear of the overtly traditional and heavy, by mixing in modern and contemporary designs to create a carefully balanced whole,” says award-winning interior designer Katharine Pooley.

Art deco detailing, be it bevelled-edge mirrors, metal inlay joinery, polished marble or specialist geometric ironmongery, lends itself well to the clean lines of a classic interior.

“Roccoco-esque precious stone and gilt detailing can also be added in small measure for richness,” says Katherine. “The wonderful thing about a ‘classical’ living room interior is that it is all encompassing. All that it asks is a lightness of hand to ensure a balanced space.”

Carole Brown, director of marketing at Dunelm Mill, agrees: “A classic scheme is brought to life with boutique accessories so add crystal lighting, silk cushions, candles and vases of dried hydrangeas complete the look.”

A key statement piece, such as the Chesterfield- style Langham sofa, is the best way to bring together a classically styled lounge.

Emma says: “Simple colour choices keep the look elegant and the use of glass accessories, simple shapes and soft lighting will all add to a sophisticated living area.”