Living room

Start with the sofa, facing the focal point of the room, a television or a fireplace, and place a coffee table within reach. Add one or two armchairs to open up the conversation, and keep clear walkways of at least 60 cm around the seating.

Layer your lighting: a ceiling light or a pendant light for general light, a floor lamp in a corner and one or two table lamps for atmosphere. This combination lets you adjust the mood from broad daylight to evening.

Choose a rug large enough to slip under the front legs of the sofa and armchairs: it ties the seating together and outlines the living area. A rug that is too small floats in the middle and breaks up the space instead of bringing it together.

Add layers of texture: cushions, a throw, a thick rug, a few natural objects and a plant. Warm light and two or three low light sources do the rest. More than the furniture, it is textiles and lighting that make a living room welcoming.