No matter the size of the house, the living room is one of its most essential elements and a focal point of the home. This is the space where you relax, socialise with friends or loved ones, and generally spend a great deal of time unwinding after a busy day.
Furniture and accessories may come in a huge range of styles, and the rooms themselves are in various shapes and sizes. This means that what looks great in one room, may look out of place in another. But if you’re going to be creating a luxury living room for a mansion, here are some important factors to consider.
Plan the space
A large living area is a bonus, but in order to maximise its use it is worth planning the space carefully. Delineating spaces (creating small areas within the room) is one approach that tends to be effective. For example, you could use the corner of the room for a cosy seating area, featuring comfortable sofas, lighting, and a coffee table to bring the space together. Loose and fixed furniture, as well as rugs can also help to achieve this.
Think about whether the room has a focal point to work your furniture around. This could be a fireplace, a statement piece of furniture, a sculpture, or even a feature wall in a different shade or with a large artwork on it.
Custom-made pieces, designed with the exact space in mind, can also offer a great solution to fill the space and provide a unique look.
Select a style
Think about the style that will suit your property best. Is the mansion modern or historical? Where is it located? What building materials have been used to construct the property? These are just some of the factors to consider before settling on a living room. In heritage properties, there may be existing features, like exposed beams, cornices, or fireplaces that you can use to your advantage. Here, vintage furniture and décor, with some modern touches, would work well.
Alternatively, more contemporary choices could fit the bill if the space is within a modern home with features like floor-to-ceiling windows. Another option is an eclectic style, blending elements of old and new, such as a mid-century sideboard and modern art.
Lighting
Your choice of lighting has a real impact on the feel of the living room. Pendant lights and chandeliers are a popular choice in lofty spaces.
Different chandelier types can affect the look and feel of the space. For example, a smaller chandelier set higher up can help to make the room look taller, while a large hanging chandelier that spans multiple storeys is sure to become a conversation piece in its own right.
They can also help to break up the room into zones when positioned carefully.
Wall lights and lamps are an important addition too, as their softer light can create a more relaxing atmosphere in the evening.
Windows and natural light
Natural light also has a vital role to play in your living room. Large windows present an opportunity to flood the space with light and bring a touch of the outdoors indoors by offering panoramic views. It’s also worth thinking about how window size, placement, and style can achieve the right level of lighting for your room.
Flooring
The flooring in a mansion can set the tone for the entire space. Carrara marble is a timeless option, with a tactile soft, and feathery look infused with hues of blue and grey. This represents a subtle and elegant choice, with a material that was famously used in Michaelangelo’s David, for the ultimate reference point.
Alternatively, hardwood flooring in the right colours can give a warmer feel. Using the greatest high-end materials such as walnut or cherry provides a clean and uniformed grain that allows sharp, clean lines throughout. Parquet flooring would encourage a few more design options for geometrical shapes or even some riskier and bolder modern statements such as the sought-after reclaimed gym flooring that has enjoyed recent popularity.
Art
Art is a great way to show your personality and is an essential part of a luxury living room. With plenty of wall and floor space at your disposal, you have the opportunity to curate your very own collection. The art you choose is a matter of personal taste, but larger pieces can tie into the colour scheme or be positioned to bring a sense of intrigue. The right art can also spark conversation and serve as a focal point for your living room.
Use the Right Materials
We’ve already mentioned how marble and wooden floors can add a sense of elegance. It’s also worth giving consideration to how different materials and finishes work with your colour scheme or the overall aesthetic.
For example, an Art Deco style may use brass elements, bold geometric patterns, and rich contrasting colours like black, gold, and silver. On the other hand, those hoping to achieve a more Victorian or Regency style may incorporate mahogany, oak, or walnut furniture, stained glass windows, and patterned, textured wallpapers.
Technology
For most people, technology is an essential part of the modern luxury living room. Factors to consider include the size and positioning of your television (or televisions), as well as features such as surround sound, smart lighting, or climate control.
Integrated home systems are proving increasingly popular, offering seamless control of various aspects of the home. For example, voice-controlled assistants can provide hands-free control of lighting, music, and temperature.
Many 4K and 8K smart TVs also offer built-in services, like voice commands to easily access the entertainment you are looking for.
Smart shades and curtains can also play an important role, adding convenience and practicality to a living space, as well as enhancing privacy and lighting.
When used discreetly these can ensure the room retains a classy look and is an enjoyable and comfortable space to spend your leisure time.
A luxury mansion living room can be as much a statement of who you are as it is a place to relax. Hopefully, this article has inspired you to think about the elements that make a luxurious and comfortable living room.. Whether you own a mansion or are working towards one, there are some incredible homes already out there to take inspiration from.
