A well-done living room is the heart of your home, the place where you entertain guests, and relax. It takes a lot of time and thought to decide the atmosphere you want to create in your lounge, and how to best achieve it. Part of this process is ensuring you have all the items you need.

Sofa

You are probably going to spend a lot of time sitting in your living room and sharing it with family and friends. That explains why there are very few lounges without a sofa. You need to consider size, shape, colour and formality when choosing one to fit your home.

Pillows or cushions

There may be a lot of debate about the appropriate number of cushions to have on a sofa but getting it right is essential to maximise comfort. Cushions are also important aesthetically, able to add small and interesting points of colour that stand out from the rest of the room.

Lighting

Few things affect the mood of a room more than its lighting. Try to layer multiple light sources, like lamps with different bulbs, and avoid having just one big, bright light. This makes the space warmer and more inviting and increases its versatility. Be practical too, and make sure you have enough light to read by.

Scent

Scent may not be the first thing you think of when decorating, but it can cause a visceral reaction, especially when it triggers memories. Flowers, candles, diffusers, sprays, there are many ways to add extra fragrances, but you need to be sure they are ones that you find calming. Some of these scented items will also contribute to the aesthetic.

Something vintage

Modern designs tend towards minimalism, but a space that is completely pristine can feel cold and sterile. Items like a vintage sofa add character and a lived-in feel, giving your home a story and sense of texture. There are many options available from specialists such as https://vintagesofawarehouse.co.uk/collections/vintage-antique-retro-recycled-furniture-vintage-sofas.

These five items alone are not enough to complete a room, but they will help make it more comfortable, inviting and aesthetically pleasing.