5 Ways to update your living room

To liven up your living room, follow KZN interior designer Michele Throssell’s lead

 

1. Accessorise with scatters and throws

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Up the comfort factor by adding new scatters and throws to your sofa, as seen below, or simply change your existing scatter cushion covers; the splash of colour and extra detail that a new fabric adds can instantly change the look and feel of a room.

“A geometric or other inspiring fabric design can also be the starting point for an entirely new colour scheme,” adds Michele.

2. Replace smaller pieces

While it might not be possible to replace big-budget items like your sofas, introducing a contemporary new side table or two can give a scheme a boost. If space is tight, pick a stool – like the one above – which can double as extra seating when necessary.

3. Add a lamp

The golden glow of a table lamp is essential for creating a welcoming mood in your living room; adding one is also a relatively inexpensive way to introduce a new, on-trend element into the space.

4. Get creative

For a modern update on a vase of fresh flowers, root an aloe in water or use a few large, sculptural green leaves to create a simple, yet striking arrangement.

5. Move it around

“Displaying some much-loved artefacts on your coffee table (as seen above) will give your living room an individual personality; a few coffee table books will encourage guests to sit, relax and have a look,” says Michele.

If budget is tight, why not shuffle your existing ornaments around from room to room? An object that was previously in your dining room, for example, can have a completely new feel when positioned in your living room.