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15 modern living room ideas

By Ellie Reeves | 10th December 2024 | 7 min read

Designing a modern living room isn’t just about ticking off the latest interior trends. It’s about creating a space that’s sleek, stylish, and still feels like home. From bold statement pieces to clever design hacks, these ideas will give your lounge a fresh, contemporary edge. Ready to reimagine your space? Let’s go!

A modern living room with a sleek media wall, built-in smart lighting and a fireplace.A modern living room with a sleek media wall, built-in smart lighting and a fireplace.A modern living room with a sleek media wall, built-in smart lighting and a fireplace.A modern living room with a sleek media wall, built-in smart lighting and a fireplace.

1. Smart tech, sleek style

Tech doesn’t have to stick out like a sore thumb. Modern living rooms blend innovation with style, making gadgets feel like part of the décor. Smart lighting sets the mood at the tap of a button, while integrated speakers and hidden charging docks keep things tidy. Add a sleek media wall to house your TV and fireplace combo for the ultimate high-tech, low-clutter finish.

Modern open-plan living room with a seamless flow between the kitchen and lounge.Modern open-plan living room with a seamless flow between the kitchen and lounge.Modern open-plan living room with a seamless flow between the kitchen and lounge.Modern open-plan living room with a seamless flow between the kitchen and lounge.

2. Open plan perfection

Modern homes embrace open plan layouts, where spaces flow seamlessly into one another. From kitchen-living combos to dining areas blending into lounges, it’s all about connection. Keep it cohesive with a unified colour palette and versatile furniture that feels right no matter where it sits.

A white living room with a cream sofa, white wall shelves and abstract wall art.A white living room with a cream sofa, white wall shelves and abstract wall art.A white living room with a cream sofa, white wall shelves and abstract wall art.A white living room with a cream sofa, white wall shelves and abstract wall art.

3. Choose a modern white scheme

White walls are a modern classic – clean, fresh, and endlessly versatile. To keep things interesting, mix tones like ivory, snow, and off-white for added depth. Then, bring in texture to warm things up: a chunky knit throw, soft linen curtains, or a cosy rug. Want more tips? Explore our white living room ideas for inspiration.

A dark grey living room wall with stylish slatted acoustic panels and a bold yellow sofa.A dark grey living room wall with stylish slatted acoustic panels and a bold yellow sofa.A dark grey living room wall with stylish slatted acoustic panels and a bold yellow sofa.A dark grey living room wall with stylish slatted acoustic panels and a bold yellow sofa.

4. Add depth with acoustic wall panels

Wall panelling is stealing the spotlight, with acoustic designs taking centre stage. These sleek, slatted beauties bring texture, warmth, and a hint of drama to your walls. Whether you lean into rich natural wood or make a statement with bold painted finishes, they’re a simple yet stunning way to add depth and a modern edge to your living room.

A grey and white living room featuring modular shelving and sleek wall-mounted storage units.A grey and white living room featuring modular shelving and sleek wall-mounted storage units.A grey and white living room featuring modular shelving and sleek wall-mounted storage units.A grey and white living room featuring modular shelving and sleek wall-mounted storage units.

5. Keep it clutter-free with smart storage

Want to know the secret to a sleek living room? Smart storage, of course. Look for modular shelving, hidden compartments, or wall-mounted units to keep things tidy without sacrificing style. For bonus points, choose furniture that doubles up, like an ottoman with hidden storage – functional and stylish.

A living room with a bold green jungle print feature wall, paired with neutral furniture and soft lighting.A living room with a bold green jungle print feature wall, paired with neutral furniture and soft lighting.A living room with a bold green jungle print feature wall, paired with neutral furniture and soft lighting.A living room with a bold green jungle print feature wall, paired with neutral furniture and soft lighting.

6. Go bold with a feature wall

Transform your living room with a feature wall that demands attention. Think bold jungle prints, rich colours, or striking patterns to add character and depth. Pair it with a cream sofa and soft grey tones for balance, letting your feature wall shine as the star of the show.

A cream living room with a cream sofa and a statement industrial-style light fixture of 6 bulbs attached to long wires affixed to the ceiling.A cream living room with a cream sofa and a statement industrial-style light fixture of 6 bulbs attached to long wires affixed to the ceiling.A cream living room with a cream sofa and a statement industrial-style light fixture of 6 bulbs attached to long wires affixed to the ceiling.A cream living room with a cream sofa and a statement industrial-style light fixture of 6 bulbs attached to long wires affixed to the ceiling.

7. Lighting that pulls it all together

Lighting is the perfect finishing touch, like the jewellery of your living room. From sculptural pendants to industrial floor lamps, the right choice can transform your space. Go for metallic finishes, bold shapes, or integrated LEDs to strike the perfect balance between style and substance.

A modern living room showcasing a wooden coffee table, wooden flooring, a cream rug, and neutral furnishings.A modern living room showcasing a wooden coffee table, wooden flooring, a cream rug, and neutral furnishings.A modern living room showcasing a wooden coffee table, wooden flooring, a cream rug, and neutral furnishings.A modern living room showcasing a wooden coffee table, wooden flooring, a cream rug, and neutral furnishings.

8. Bring warmth with wood tones

Natural wood has a way of grounding a modern living room. From sleek oak coffee tables to rich walnut shelving, these tones add warmth and character. Light woods feel fresh and airy, while darker hues bring depth. Pair with soft neutrals or metallic accents for a look that’s cosy yet contemporary.

A glass-top coffee table styled with chic books and a wooden bowl in a modern living room.A glass-top coffee table styled with chic books and a wooden bowl in a modern living room.A glass-top coffee table styled with chic books and a wooden bowl in a modern living room.A glass-top coffee table styled with chic books and a wooden bowl in a modern living room.

9. Curate your coffee table

Your coffee table deserves its moment. Choose a sleek design – glass tops or metallic finishes work wonders – and style it up with a few curated pieces. Think chic coffee table books, a statement vase, or a cluster of candles. Effortlessly modern and endlessly practical.

A neutral-toned living room with a mustard sofa and a stylish gallery wall adding vibrant accents.A neutral-toned living room with a mustard sofa and a stylish gallery wall adding vibrant accents.A neutral-toned living room with a mustard sofa and a stylish gallery wall adding vibrant accents.A neutral-toned living room with a mustard sofa and a stylish gallery wall adding vibrant accents.

10. Neutral tones with a pop of colour

Neutrals are the backbone of a modern living room, but a pop of colour keeps it interesting. Whether it’s a bold teal cushion or a mustard sofa, this simple trick adds personality without overcomplicating the look.

A modern living room painted in teal green with a oval shaped mirror above a wooden rattan sideboard.A modern living room painted in teal green with a oval shaped mirror above a wooden rattan sideboard.A modern living room painted in teal green with a oval shaped mirror above a wooden rattan sideboard.A modern living room painted in teal green with a oval shaped mirror above a wooden rattan sideboard.

11. Add light and depth with mirrors

Mirrors are a must for any modern living room. An oversized mirror can make a bold statement while bouncing light around the space. Prefer something subtler? Try grouping smaller mirrors in geometric shapes or sleek metallic frames for a gallery-style effect. Whether round, rectangular, or abstract, mirrors bring style and dimension to your room.

A living room with deep navy walls, a dark teal sofa, a glass coffee table, and metallic gold accents for contrast.A living room with deep navy walls, a dark teal sofa, a glass coffee table, and metallic gold accents for contrast.A living room with deep navy walls, a dark teal sofa, a glass coffee table, and metallic gold accents for contrast.A living room with deep navy walls, a dark teal sofa, a glass coffee table, and metallic gold accents for contrast.

12. Moody hues for impact

Deep tones like charcoal, navy, and emerald green are dominating modern interiors. Use them on walls, furniture, or even accessories for instant drama. Pair these shades with light flooring or metallic accents for balance.

An open-plan living room with layered rugs in neutral tones defining the seating area.An open-plan living room with layered rugs in neutral tones defining the seating area.An open-plan living room with layered rugs in neutral tones defining the seating area.An open-plan living room with layered rugs in neutral tones defining the seating area.

13. Create cosy zones with rugs

Rugs are more than just floor coverings; they can help define areas in an open plan living room. Layering rugs with different textures or patterns adds depth and interest to your space. Choose a neutral base rug, then top it with a smaller, bold design to create a cosy yet modern look.

A gallery wall on the wall above a sofa, featuring minimalist prints in slim metallic frames, adding a stylish focal point to the living room.A gallery wall on the wall above a sofa, featuring minimalist prints in slim metallic frames, adding a stylish focal point to the living room.A gallery wall on the wall above a sofa, featuring minimalist prints in slim metallic frames, adding a stylish focal point to the living room.A gallery wall on the wall above a sofa, featuring minimalist prints in slim metallic frames, adding a stylish focal point to the living room.

14. Gallery walls, but make them modern

Turn your gallery wall into a chic focal point with minimalist prints, striking black-and-white photography, or bold abstract wall art. Keep it clean with slim frames in metallic, black, or neutral tones. It’s the perfect blend of personal and modern style.

A statement glass and gold pendant light in a living room.A statement glass and gold pendant light in a living room.A statement glass and gold pendant light in a living room.A statement glass and gold pendant light in a living room.

15. Shine with metallics

A few metallic touches can take your living room to the next level. Think brass lamps, copper side tables, or gold accessories. These small additions add a touch of glamour while keeping things ultra modern.

Modern living rooms: styled by you

Got a modern space you're proud of? We love seeing your DIY transformations! Tag us on Instagram using #BandQit for a chance to be featured in our gallery below (and of course, to earn ultimate bragging rights)!

  • Acoustic wall panels in a living room.

    @our.seatonhome

  • Acoustic wall panels in a living room.

    @thisdigitalmomshome

  • Black and white geometric painted wall mural.

    @houseoflexington

It's time to go modern

From statement media walls and sleek acoustic panelling to bold metallic accents and integrated tech, modern living rooms seamlessly blend style with functionality. Whether you prefer dramatic dark tones or crisp, white spaces, finish the look with contemporary furniture, stylish lighting, and standout home accessories. Craving more lounge inspiration? Explore our living room décor ideas or small living room ideas for even more creative tips!