17 Modern Living Room Ideas to Mix, Match, and Make Your Own
These cozy spaces are far from boring.
Defined by clean lines, natural materials and minimalist decor, modern home design is one of the most well-known interior design styles. In the living room, the aesthetic translates to a space that feels airy and uncluttered, yet cozy and welcoming. Here, we've rounded up dreamy modern living room ideas that showcase steal-worthy design trends and functional layouts for casual family time. This style doesn’t have to be stark—these ideas show you how to cozy it up.
Go Glam
Designed by Ali Budd, this elegant living room is outfitted with a statement chandelier, blue velvet curved sofa and multiple marble coffee tables (six to be exact). For even more contrast, there's a gallery wall comprised of white and black artwork.
Find a Colorful Couch
Pair neutral walls and floors with a colorful couch for a pop of personality. Take note from design firm ballonSTUDIO, which goes for a forest green fabric and a modular design.
Display Art on the TV
This light-filled living room designed by Reena Sotropa features a wall-mounted TV that blends seamlessly with the modern style. Disguise your TV as a piece of artwork, whether with a beautiful landscape or black-and-white abstract print featured here.
Highlight Curves
Here, designer Kristen Elizabeth swaps harsh lines for gentle curves. Add an element of drama to an interior with curved furnishings, from sofas and armchairs to coffee tables and wall decor.
Combine Black and White
The black-and-white color palette is sophisticated and timeless — plus, there are endless ways to recreate the classic look. Here, House of Nomad uses crisp, white paint for the walls, a mix of black and white seating, a black light fixture and a unique wall decor display.
Hang Oversized Art
Take note from designer Lauren Jayne and hang large, abstract artwork over the sofa — an easy way to create intrigue and dimension in a smaller space.
Play With Pattern
From the geometric wallpaper and abstract area rug to the textured fireplace mantel, designer Michelle Boudreau doesn't shy away from pattern.
Consider an Acrylic Coffee Table
We love how Collected Interiors makes the most of natural light by opting for white textures and an acrylic coffee table.
Make it Sleek
The sleek, sharp lines in this space make for a modern and streamlined living area. Styled in a minimalist approach, the space is orderly and inviting, yet ready to be lived in.
Incorporate Statement Fabrics
Statement fabrics add a fresh, warm take to a space. Window treatments and throw pillows are a great place to start.
Utilize Mirrors
Mirrors serve more than just functionality. Add a grand mirror over a fireplace to make not only a design statement, but also create the illusion of a larger space.
Design With Clean Lines
Clean lines are a key modern design element. Straight and sleek lines of furniture, architectural elements and lighting add to the contemporary feel of this living room.
Go for Bold Paint Colors
Painting the walls a dark color is an easy way to make a statement. Keep the rest of the design clean and simple to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.
Add Custom Paneling
A design detail as small as wall panels can completely transform and update a space. Add a fresh coat of paint on top to make it even more chic.
Decorate Sky-High Shelving
Not only do these striking shelves take advantage of vertical space, they showcase collectibles, books and artwork and infuse color into the interior. Here, architecture and interiors studio JAM uses a mix of modern, traditional and vintage pieces for a curated look.
Follow the "Rule of Three"
Many interior designers embrace the "rule of three," which states that objects and art grouped in threes appear more interesting and intentional. Here, LP & Co. displays three similar but different paintings, accompanying each with a picture light.
Introduce a Moody Hue
Although we often associate modern rooms with bright, neutral paint colors, there's a case to be made for dark, moody interiors. This dreamy modern living room, designed by Keyanna Bowen, features deep blue walls.
Kara Thompson is a Denver-based journalist with over five years of experience writing lifestyle content. She has written for a variety of publications, including townandcountrymag.com, elledecor.com and Parents, where she covered all things home, travel, food, health and holidays. Her sister's German Shepherd, tennis and mystery books are a few of her favorite things
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) leads Good Housekeeping’s gift guide strategy. She writes and edits commerce content, where she analyzes lifestyle trends, shopping data, and works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute to recommend top-tested products. Previously, she was the associate lifestyle editor for GH and wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, BobVila.com, and Unique Homes Magazine. When she’s not tracking down buzzy products, you can find her walking her dog, Skye, around Jersey City.
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