Modern Living Room Decor Ideas 2018

The year 2018 saw a shift in living room design trends, moving away from the stark minimalism of previous years and embracing a warmer, more inviting aesthetic. Comfort and functionality became key considerations, alongside a renewed appreciation for natural materials and textures. This article explores some of the prominent living room decor ideas that defined 2018.

Embracing the Hygge Lifestyle

The Danish concept of "hygge" permeated interior design in 2018. Hygge emphasizes creating a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere that promotes well-being and contentment. Living rooms embraced this trend through the incorporation of soft textiles, warm lighting, and comfortable seating arrangements designed for relaxation and social interaction. Think plush throws, textured cushions, and flickering candlelight.

Natural Materials Take Center Stage

Natural elements such as wood, stone, and plants played a significant role in 2018 living room decor. Incorporating these materials added warmth and texture to the space, fostering a connection to nature and creating a calming environment. Live edge wood tables, exposed brick walls, and woven jute rugs were popular choices, adding a touch of organic beauty.

Statement Lighting Makes an Impact

Lighting moved beyond mere functionality and became a statement piece in 2018. Oversized pendant lights, sculptural floor lamps, and strategically placed accent lighting were used to create visual interest and highlight specific areas of the living room. Warm, ambient lighting was favored, contributing to the overall cozy and inviting ambiance.

Bold Accent Colors Add Personality

While neutral color palettes remained popular, 2018 saw an increased use of bold accent colors to inject personality and vibrancy into living rooms. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red were frequently incorporated through accessories, artwork, and accent furniture, creating focal points and adding a sense of drama.

Mixed Metals Create Visual Interest

The trend of mixing metals gained momentum in 2018. Combining warm metals like brass and copper with cooler tones like silver and nickel added depth and visual interest to living rooms. This trend was evident in lighting fixtures, furniture hardware, and decorative accessories, creating a layered and eclectic look.

Geometric Patterns Add a Modern Touch

Geometric patterns were a popular choice for adding a modern touch to living rooms in 2018. These patterns were incorporated through rugs, throw pillows, artwork, and even wallpaper, creating visual interest and a sense of dynamism. From subtle textures to bold graphic prints, geometric patterns offered a versatile way to add personality and style.

Functional Furniture Takes Priority

Functionality was a key consideration in furniture choices for 2018 living rooms. Modular sofas, ottomans with hidden storage, and multi-purpose coffee tables were popular options, maximizing space utilization and providing practical solutions for modern living. This focus on functionality ensured that the living room served as a comfortable and efficient space for both relaxation and entertaining.

Gallery Walls Showcase Personal Style

Gallery walls continued to be a popular trend in 2018, allowing homeowners to showcase their personal style and create a visual focal point. A mix of framed prints, photographs, and even three-dimensional objects were arranged in curated displays, adding personality and a unique touch to the living room. These gallery walls offered a flexible and evolving way to personalize the space.

Indoor Plants Bring Life and Vibrancy

Incorporating indoor plants became increasingly popular in 2018, bringing life and vibrancy to living rooms. From large statement plants like fiddle leaf figs to smaller succulents and hanging planters, greenery added a touch of nature and improved air quality. This trend reflected a growing awareness of the benefits of biophilic design, which seeks to connect indoor spaces with the natural world.

Velvet Upholstery Adds a Touch of Luxury

Velvet upholstery experienced a resurgence in popularity in 2018, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to living rooms. Velvet sofas, armchairs, and even ottomans offered a luxurious and inviting feel, while the rich texture and depth of color added a touch of glamour. This trend further contributed to the overall emphasis on comfort and warmth in living room design.