15 ideas to help make the most of your new build living room

Considerations before decorating your new build living room

Before decorating, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure a successful and harmonious design:

1. Space planning

Understand the dimensions and layout of your living room. Measure the space accurately and create a floorplan to determine the best furniture arrangement. Make sure to consider how different furniture or decoration pieces will interact within the space.

2. Lighting

Evaluate the natural light in the room. This will influence your choice of colours, furniture placement, and additional lighting fixtures. Aim to maximise natural light while ensuring sufficient artificial lighting for evenings and darker days.

3. Purpose and functionality

Determine the primary function of the room. Will it be a space for entertaining, relaxing, or both? Knowing the purpose will help you choose the right furniture and décor to meet your needs.

4. Personal style

Reflect on your personal style and preferences. Whether you prefer modern, traditional, or eclectic designs, make sure your living room décor aligns with your taste and creates a space where you feel comfortable and at ease. An easy way to do it is by creating a mood board.

5. Budget

Set a realistic budget for your decorating project. Prioritise essential items and allocate funds for key pieces that will define the room. Look for ways to save, such as DIY projects or repurposing existing furniture.

6. Future-proofing

Consider how your needs might change over time. Opt for flexible and adaptable furniture and décor that can evolve with your lifestyle, ensuring longevity and relevance.

New build living room design ideas to consider

1. Open-plan design

Maximise space and natural light by opting for an open-plan layout. This approach creates a seamless flow between the living room, kitchen, and dining areas, making your home feel larger and more connected. It allows for flexible use of space, perfect for entertaining or family gatherings.

Image of an open-plan kitchen

2. Statement lighting

Incorporate bold, eye-catching light fixtures to serve as focal points in your living room. Chandeliers, pendant lights, and floor lamps can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to the space. Proper lighting can highlight key areas and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Image of statement lighting for a new build living room

3. Biophilic design

Bring the outside in with biophilic design elements. Incorporate plenty of greenery, natural materials like wood and stone, and large windows to connect with nature and enhance wellbeing. Plants can improve air quality and create a serene, natural aesthetic.

Image of a biophilic design idea for a new build living room

4. Neutral colour palette

Opt for a neutral colour palette to create a timeless and versatile foundation. Shades of beige, grey, and white can make your living room feel spacious and calm, while also allowing for easy updates with accent pieces. Neutral colours provide a perfect backdrop for various styles and accessories.

5. Feature wall

Create a striking focal point with a feature wall. Use bold paint colours, wallpaper, or textured materials like brick or wood panelling to add depth and character to your living room. A feature wall can highlight architectural details or artwork.

Image of a navy blue feature wall

6. Modular furniture

Choose modular furniture that can be easily reconfigured to suit your needs. This flexibility is perfect for new builds, allowing you to adapt the layout as your lifestyle changes. Modular pieces can fit into various spaces and can be rearranged for different occasions.

Image of modular furniture

7. Smart home technology

Integrate smart home technology to enhance convenience and comfort. From voice-controlled lighting and temperature settings to automated blinds and entertainment systems, smart tech can make your living room a modern marvel. These systems can be controlled remotely, adding security and efficiency.

Image of a woman using smart home technology in her living room

8. Minimalist design

Embrace a minimalist approach to create a clean and uncluttered space. Focus on quality over quantity, selecting a few statement pieces of furniture and décor that reflect your personal style. Minimalism promotes a serene environment, free from unnecessary clutter.

Image of a minimalist design new build living room

9. Cosy nooks

Create cosy nooks within your living room for reading, relaxing, or enjoying a cup of tea. A comfortable armchair, a soft throw, and a small side table can transform a corner into a peaceful retreat. These nooks provide intimate spaces for relaxation and downtime.

Image of a cosy nook in a living room

10. Custom built-ins

Invest in custom built-in furniture and storage solutions to maximise space and functionality. Built-in shelves, cabinets, and seating can provide a polished, cohesive look while keeping your living room organised. Custom pieces can be tailored to fit your space perfectly.

Image of custom built-ins for a new build living room

11. Art gallery wall

Showcase your personality and interests with a gallery wall. Display a mix of artwork, photographs, and decorative objects in various frames to create a dynamic and visually appealing feature. This can serve as a conversation starter and add personal charm.

Image of an art gallery wall

12. Indoor-outdoor flow

Enhance the connection between your living room and outdoor spaces. Large sliding or bi-fold doors can open up the room to a patio or garden, creating a seamless transition for indoor-outdoor living. This design is perfect for enjoying nature and expanding your living area.

Indoor-outdoor flow

13. Layered textures

Add depth and interest to your living room with layered textures. Mix and match materials like velvet, linen, wool, and leather in your furniture and soft furnishings to create a rich, inviting atmosphere. Textures add warmth and complexity to the decor.

Image of layered textures in new build living rooms

14. Accent furniture

Incorporate accent furniture pieces to add personality and flair. An eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary pieces can make your living room feel unique and curated. Accent furniture can provide bursts of colour and style, enhancing the overall design.

Image of accent furniture

15. Personal touches

Include personal touches that make your living room feel like home. Family photos, travel souvenirs, and cherished heirlooms can add warmth and character, creating a space that tells your story. Personal items make the space uniquely yours and can evoke fond memories.

Image of an example of personal touches for your new build living room

By implementing these ideas, you can create a living room in your new home that is not only functional but also stylish and inviting. Remember to infuse your personality into the design, ensuring that the space truly feels like home.