Classic Scandinavian style living room for a family

In the last episode of the season, "Home idea with IKEA" visits a young family that has recently moved from a two-room apartment in a city to a house some distance from the metropolis. Elizabete and Renārs admit there is more than one room waiting for the final design, but the living room is the heart of their home and the place where most activities take place, so they wish to begin with their new start here. What are IKEA Interior Designer's Valērija ideas and suggestions for this room?

Before: nice and cosy but dated

The family living room is spacious and airy, painted in light shade. A nice touch is the fireplace that makes the room even cosier. However, the furniture that is taken from the previous family home has served for many years already and does not even really match. Elizabete and Renārs wish for a place to entertain guests, to have nice place for their everyday life as a family and, of course, for a play corner for both their children.

After: an elegant living room in natural shades

After the makeover the spacious room has become a timeless and elegant place to spend time together and to invite guests. Harmonious and natural earth shades create a pleasing backdrop where the cleverly placed black and colourful accents serve as a trim and balance the dark fireplace that could otherwise look out of place in this light space.
 

Designers tip: seating is about easy communication

IKEA Designer Valērija shares a tip for any living room seating: it is always best to combine the sofa with some single seating pieces as this allows for more flexibility and adds lightness to the design. Here, she has chosen two natural rattan armchairs that enhance the overall harmony of the room. Completed by an airy coffee-table, this seating area is accentuated by a jute carpet that adds texture and creates a more private feel.
 

Adding flexible storage

Even if the amount of things seems manageable, it is always a good idea to add more storage, opting for open and closed compartments to hide away things not needed as often and to show off the most prized items. Storage can also be creative, like here, where an empty wall area has been used to store spare chairs. The BILLY combination at the end wall includes both high and lower shelves to give the combination a more dynamic look.

Tips for a classic and elegant table setting

A spacious dining table can become the focal point of a living room and the hub of many activities. When setting the table for guests, it is important to consider the colours already in the interior. Here, Valērija has chosen natural materials and classic black-and-white palette that is lightened up by the fine glassware and warm earth and wood tones.
 

Decorating in style

When creating an interior, it is wise to go from big to small. Choose the furniture first and think about decorating with accessories later. The bigger pieces of furniture are like a background in a painting that accentuates the decorations. The more fragile ones can be displayed behind glass doors, but the more often needed ones will be best stored in open shelves.