We’ve all had a cluttered living room at one point. There are coffee tables overflowing with magazines, shelves packed with all sorts of trinkets, and plants in every corner. At first, it feels cozy, but it can quickly start looking chaotic.
The truth is that clean lines and open surfaces are what help define a room. Implementing negative space makes your living room look refreshed and refined. If you’re ready to turn your space into a chic, minimalist living room, here are five easy ways to let negative space shine in the area.
Place Sofas and Chairs Away from the Walls
Many people instinctively push their couches right against the walls of their living space, with the idea that it “opens up” the middle of the room. However, your living room can look flat, awkward and unnatural when all the furniture is lined up at the edges.
Instead, pull your sofas and chairs 6 to 8 inches away from the wall. This creates extra space and breathing room behind them. Use a large, stylish rug to define the zone so the furniture floats comfortably in the middle. The room will instantly look more inviting as a result.
Opt for a Lightly Styled Coffee Table
Coffee tables often become a drop zone for random knick-knacks, from utility bills to the TV remote. Give your living room more negative space by styling the coffee table lightly instead. Place a few intentional pieces on top, such as two or three of your favorite coffee table books, your favorite scented candle, or a sculptural bowl. Leave the rest of the surface clear so that the items you chose can shine.
Leave the Corners of the Room Bare
Don’t be tempted to fill every corner in your room with plants or a floor lamp. Packing something into every gap of your room will make it feel crowded. Instead, let the corners breathe. Leave them alone for more open space.
This emptiness draws more attention to the main furniture in the room. As a result, your living room will feel more open and thoughtfully styled. If decorating seems tricky, a property stylist can help you decide which corners to showcase and which to leave open for maximum impact.
Go Simple on Your Window Treatments
Heavy curtains can block out daylight, making the room feel closed in. Showcase the negative space in your room more by letting in natural light. The easiest way to achieve this is with lightweight fabrics for your window treatments.
Opt for sheer linen curtains or slim roller shades. That way, the light comes pouring in during the day. The glow will highlight the open areas of your room, making the negative space feel intentional and airy.
Decorate with a Monochromatic Palette
A simple, monochromatic palette can unify your entire living room. The eye won’t dart between a dozen different shades. That way, negative space becomes more apparent. It also makes your space feel more cohesive and serene.
Pick one base color family. Warm grays and soft whites are terrific for this. Then, layer in tonal variations, like a lighter wall shade or a slightly darker sofa. Keep throw pillow, rugs, and small decor within the family. The result is a calm, flowing space.
Endnote
Creating a living room that feels sophisticated doesn’t always mean adding more. If anything, it means ensuring there’s more negative space and open surface. The tips above can help you make your space feel bigger and more polished. Try floating your furniture. Let your corners breathe. Style coffee tables without much clutter. Before you know it, your living room will have enough calming negative space to look and feel effortlessly chic.
