How To Elevate Your Living Room - 9 Do's and Don'ts | Design Made Easy

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In this video I’ll go through the most common mistakes people make when designing their living rooms as well as my best design tips so you can elevate your living room.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:23 - Purchasing All Furniture From One Place
02:24 - Skillshare Sponsor
03:18 - Artworks or TV Too High
05:39 - Too Much Furniture
07:28 - Too Small Rugs
08:28 - Too Small Artworks
09:02 - Plan Ahead
09:50 - Incorporate Color or Contrast
10:41 - Add Greeneries
11:01 - Use Multiple Light Source
If you enjoyed this video, like, share, and subscribe for more weekly content! And get in touch by leaving a comment below.
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Furnitures in Moodboard:
Grey Sofa - bit.ly/3opmzQh
Rattan TV Unit - bit.ly/3onbqzs
Rug - bit.ly/3zutFcQ
Oak Coffee Table - bit.ly/3GTKQ8U
Floor Lamp - bit.ly/3xwj4gE
Furniture in my living room:
Sofa (AU) - castleryau.pxf.io/PyAd3j
Sofa (US) - castleryus.pxf.io/nLb0zV
Andre Coffee Table (AU)- castleryau.pxf.io/MmkdGn
Andre Coffee Table (US) - castleryus.pxf.io/Kj9nme
Floor Lamp - bit.ly/3vZqzdd
Side Table - bit.ly/3mpuP2L
Wall Art - bit.ly/3Oz7w14
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[@reynardlowell]

The first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/reynardlowell07221 Also let me know what topics you want me to cover next. The most upvoted comment/topic suggestion will be made into a video in the upcoming weeks.

[@Alikesboba]

This was really useful, thanks!

[@xDesolateStudios]

While a bit specific, I would love at least a part of a video covering how to handle rental spaces with wall-to-wall, gray/tan carpet. I'm finding it very difficult to design my living room since rugs are generally difficult to incorporate on top of existing carpet and the general beige-y, drab feel of the room makes it hard to know some colors to compliment/liven it up.

[@susanno3836]

@@JR-tc9xm kzbin.info/www/bejne/iX24ZXqDgKhjhK8

[@eliadefilho]

Rugs are a great way to bring uniformity on a living area. But as a father of two, a toddler and a baby, being very alergic myself, and living in a very hot and dusty city, I got rid of all the rugs I used to have, they were more trouble than it was worth it...

[@Naogostoumorra]

Qual cidade?

[@Trgn]

Yep i vacuum often and hate dusty floor, rugs are just annoying nuisances. Also living in the tropic, I cants stand the sight of rugs even with aircon on. Fuck rugs. They are overated.

[@EveaGornall]

You could get those interlocking puzzle piece mats in a fun pattern or color. It’ll be soft padding for the kids and easy to clean like hardwood but do the same job in unifying a space like a rug does

[@isaaclim8645]

I like the rugless look too.. I like seeing the floor being continuous throughout a room

[@Jennifer-nz2ss]

I agree 100%!! They are just dust catchers here in TX. I also use a swifter wet jet every other day.

[@thegayteen]

Your material is insanely educational. Nobody else breaks down design concepts on KZbin quite like you, and in a usable way.

[@NenadSapungin]

I agree! He does a great job..

[@ruthiebaugh4996]

I couldn’t agree more! You get on my level of decorating!

[@tryphena93]

The speech pacing and speed is so comforting. I can still manage to eat, listen and ABSORB everything you are saying ❤❤❤❤ great video!

[@pbear49]

Great Advice and tips. I was very lucky several years ago to have a neighbor that was an interior designer he offered me several tips that you've discussed. They were very valuable over the years. As I've gotten older, I've leaning more to a cleaner minimalist style and I'm finding I'm more comfortable with open blank spaces.

[@camellia.r]

Haha I'm kind of guilty of buying everything from the same store and end up having a showroom as my home! Love your style and tips, always looking forward to seeing your videos !

[@corgikun2579]

I think most people do that

[@reynardlowell]

Thank you!! 😊 Glad you found it helpful.

[@perlecatt9123]

very guilty of that too

[@lucky2516]

Always! 😂

[@maii171]

Great video!!! ❤️❤️ I really like these educational videos so much! And seeing you in front of the camera is a nice change too! Thanks!!

[@reynardlowell]

Thank you so much!!

[@jillpolino6273]

I agree, enjoyed seeing you, adds a personal touch

[@theblessedlife2376]

Next video suggestion is Flow of the room.. it’s a very important aspect which often we don’t understand, atleast it’s difficult for me. This video was very very helpful. Thank you

[@thesolitarybee6096]

Hey there Reynard, I loved todays ‘new look’ video. Can you show us how you declutter and sort catch all drawers and how do you store bedding towels and seasonal clothing to include coats.

[@georgewithmore8972]

All these tips are really valuable and hit the spot! Experience has shown me that actually applying each one in the wisest way can lead to the most beneficial results, especially the point of buying the furniture from different places and choosing the color palette using contrasts wisely. I bought a lot of my furniture pieces at DWR, IKEA, and other stores but my Bellini sofa from Manhattan Home Design is my most precious item. With them, I wanted to set up an environment that was dynamic enough to avoid monotony. Thank you for sharing this!

[@glennwilliams9941]

Thx Reynard. I have adopted many of your tips and shared knowledge across all your videos. Topics of interest i wouldn’t mind seeing are, curtains and sheers v’s panel glides v’s verticals, v’s shuttters v’s ventians. Pro’s n con’s for timber floors over carpet. Colour combo matching couch, cushion and room decor to varying types of occupants, i.e. the broody male bachelor pad to a couple’s pad etc. Keep up the great work mate, kicking goals. 👍🏼

[@icilike]

I like the way you illustrated the DOS and don'ts of hanging artwork. So obvious that even I can understand your point. Thanks.

[@WandafulWrldWide]

Glad to see you post a video again, Reynard. Thank you for always presenting beautiful and thoughtful content. ✅

[@NotEntirelyCalm]

The rug size thing is something I've only realized and learned through interior design videos on youtube but it makes a huge difference! I wish I could convince my parents of it too lol, they're still stuck on thinking that the carpet needs to fit between the sofas and have a bit of border space 😭

[@GeneticaForense]

This channel is amazing! 😍 Thank you very much forbreaking down the design concepts!

[@nimfadg7554]

Hi Reynald. Thanks for validating what I had done in my small space in terms of design and dimensions although I'm no interior designer. I have but a few guests every now and then and I get elated over their unsolicited impressions of my style here. More power and inspo for your viewers.

[@shaneharris7284]

I learned the not buying things from the same store the hard way and didn't really know how everything would look once it was in the living room. I bought a large sectional and matching oversized chair and the space felt more cramped, so I had to put my chair in my bedroom to free up some space. Now, the majority of people watching your videos probably live in apartments, and chances are most of them are smaller spaces. I HAD to have a sectional cream color sofa and I don't regret buying that, but I have to always have that taking up the majority of space. I want to bring in more style, texture, and natural elements into my space and know what to look for, but I have a lot of issues trying to find things without spending thousands and thousands of dollars finding rugs, artwork, and furniture pieces that match the space. I don't know the sizes of the wall art gallery I saved from pinterest. I'm struggling with finding color cohesion because I want color, but also keep it neutral, but also bold and dynamic. I know it's possible and I'm going to get some help because I have scoured the internet and I'm still stick trying to find solutions.

[@debbiemartell8100]

Amazing video. Your tips are outstanding and I love your calm, soothing style of speaking 😊

[@Englishroserebecca]

Your videos are the best. You explain everything. Your soft voice is the best and your videos are calm and easy to follow. Thank you I’ve gained so much info from you.

[@Rebecca-creates]

Creating a room with a fireplace on the only solid wall. The other walls have doorways or windows. Even harder is this space is very small. Love all your videos and wish there were more😃

[@NenadSapungin]

Nice tips here! Thanks for sharing all of these. I'm currently working on redesigning my workspace so some of these tips are going to help me out!

[@janessarunning450]

Your videos have been informative and helpful to my designs. Thanks! I would enjoy seeing a video on how to arrange furniture in living rooms of different sizes and shapes. Ex. Small room, large room, long and narrow room, room with three entry points, living room with front entry door but no entryway, etc.

[@03se2]

this is a great video. thank you so much for taking the time to make such therapeutic content. i would love to see a bedroom and bathroom design or "do/don'ts"

[@nichtdasmitdensteinen]

this channel is an enrichment for KZbin

[@alexandracauty9964]

I really like your new video format. Mixing both you talking in front of the camera and video capture gives a nice dynamic.

[@francisco_maca]

I love all your videos, you’re so talented! Thanks for tips

[@melissaigberaese2470]

Your videos are so educational and easy to understand. Thank you. Absolutely enjoyed seeing your face !

[@subhassini10]

Your calm voice and soothing music, take this video to next level. Am big fan your video recently...

[@DeoxysRibos]

Hey I literally just found your channel and have been watching so many of your videos the past few days! Your style for decorating a rental is exactly what I'm going for. Also, it's nice seeing you do a change of style and doing an explainer-type video--it reminds me of another interior design KZbinr I watch (in a good way!)

[@Juanj0se22]

Im enjoying so much your content Reynard! learning a lot! even If Im not the executor, I can better understand what Im looking for and comunicate it better to the professional :D thanks again!

[@akashanand2944]

You talk a lot about living room. Can you make a video on bedroom designs, furniture, making it smart etc... Love the content you put out. ❤️

[@hellototheworld]

Thanks for sharing I agree larger artwork and rugs really make a room

[@Zacharypines]

Love the new educational content brother! I’m curious about small spaces! I’m about to move into a studio and I’m not used to small spaces

[@gigachard5690]

Thoughtful tips there, thank you. My home could benefit from all these and most important summary is the last few words I'll keep in mind: design takes time. The things I have gotten right came from just using my senses and practicing patience with the process.

[@rudivandoornegat2371]

Oh man! The B-roll moves super fast .......

[@dlaminimlandvo9403]

Your videos have made me the best among my friends, they always call me to held them out.😅😅😅😅😅 Thanks.🇸🇿

[@dianebaker5243]

Lovely video. We have band coffee tablets in our homes. That all they do is take up space. We use side tables. And nest off tablets witch can be used only when needed. 🥰

[@celiasfuentes]

thanks for this video! i can’t wait to apply your tips!

[@zoeree1443]

Your videos are always so informative and helpful. Thank you!

[@davidsheppard1362]

I completely agree with you about not mounting a TV above a Fireplace. You see this so often in Home Tours. It is a very bad practice.

[@deralte680]

Really cool point regarding the height of pictures 👌🏽. I was sometimes struggling with the fitting height.

[@jaspreetjawandha754]

Really helpful points and explained nicely in short 👌

[@SchwSchw]

Thanks for the tips! I would love to see a video on how to style shelves.

[@cheesegrater2000]

This was a great video! I was wondering if you had any tips on how to plan for an open-concept living space?

[@MrsBlanka]

I've found your channel recently and I love all of your videos! We have very similar aesthetic :) Could you make a in-depth video on creating mood boards? I feel like I struggle with that a bit

[@christinasanchez2154]

Thanks for sharing. Great tips.

[@kaliksiu]

This is gold. Thank you

[@ingridpineda5848]

Thank you for ur tips. I have a hard time finding affordable art pieces or prints. I would be interested to see a video from us on the subject. Thank u.

[@suzannewilliams4735]

Great video. Thank you Reynard.

[@erwinang]

thank you, you're my inspirations 🌈

[@neilbrady8142]

Brilliant videos, loving your content!

[@liam606]

You are amazing Mr Lowell. Talented and creative

[@rogelioleali1266]

As always great Video! Would it be possible to cover How to Style Shelves?

[@sivastark6851]

Do a video on painting colours for different rooms.. and can you please tell me how can I contact you.

[@nikztips3096]

Do you ever plan on making a video about cheap items for housing to elevate. Or something for people with only one room such as a bedroom?

[@cindytaylor698]

Great ideas. Also, your voice is so soothing. 😊

[@sherim8155]

I like learning about the amount of space that needs to be between furniture and wall art, , lighting and a table etc.

[@ellieya3287]

Amazing content! Can we talk about managing cables, wires, remote controls and other similar items? That would be quite useful.

[@aniab4306]

Great video! Love it♡

[@ruthiebaugh4996]

Thank you! I enjoy your videos!

[@richardyang7486]

For hanging TV too high, I do agree mounting at the eye-level is ideal but it also depends on the location and condition of the studs in the wall. If the TV is too heavy, it's impossible to use a full motion wall mount since pulling a heavy TV too far away from the wall will likely overload the stud. If you have a fireplace, mounting TV above it seems like the only choice.

[@GeeEee75]

I bought a TV mount on Amazon that can go straight into drywall, no stud finding necessary. Since its mounted directly opposite the couch, at eye level, there's no need for an adjustable mount. I've had it for years now and it's very sturdy.

[@emiliariccio-weiner7027]

I really enjoy your videos. Would you be able to do one on how to decorate book shelves in a living room?

[@janetbransdon3742]

Great tips, thank you... subscribed 🥰

[@noli-timere-crede-tantum]

I appreciate the endless videos from design gurus explaining basic, foundational concepts to the rest of us. But saying things like "you may injure your neck from looking up so high to see the artwork" sounds amazing.

[@amreens9987]

I loved this video learnt so much thank you

[@trisnaekowiyatnikawaii3860]

what a useful tips !!! Hi @Reynard Lowell, can you please do a tips for designing a working space nook or working space room in general , please ? I use to a small room in my house for working space yet a yoga and meditation studio. Thank you for your help

[@ovitimor2168]

Excellent, thank you😊

[@bsingoguma7101]

This is so educative and revealing

[@zibbly]

You are so good at this. ❤

[@Ngnow302]

Great tips 👍

[@veenasandeep86]

Hi Reynard..it was a superb video like ur other videos..I am a big fan of your videos..👌👌

[@MoabiRakosa]

Great tips! Great to you see in front of the camera too!

[@TheAbiGeorge]

Great thanks

[@janethunt4037]

This was so helpful!!!!! I keep hearing about the 60 30 10 rule of color. I would love for you to give a good explanation of that and show some examples. Thank you!!!

[@nelsonthekinger]

You are really good, this tips will help me a lot!

[@belenabrego6081]

I’d love if you could do a video on ideas of how to work with recessed walls. That would be great!

[@jeanlarson8505]

I Learn so much from your videos! Will you make a video addressing rooms that are asymmetrical please? My sofa cannot be directly across from my fireplace because of door placement. It always feels off. I’d love help with that.

[@Lexshena4]

Very good job! :)

[@Simphome]

Damn! I often make that mistake :(. Thanks for the tip!!

[@Mesointeriors]

Thank you so much

[@richardleong4060]

Do you by chance have suggestions for how large a rug should be under a dining table + chairs? The recommended numbers you give are really helpful!

[@reynardlowell]

This completely depends on the size of dining table. But generally leave around 75-90cm (30-36") from edge of table to edge of rug, this should allow enough space so all the chair legs will be on the rug when sitting, instead of falling off the rug.

[@chaudharyfahadali4838]

Wonderful

[@shailyy3202]

Hey Reynard thnx for sharing these awesome tips 🤩.. Am guilty of hanging small art piece way higher to the sofa in my parent's living room 😬.. Do give tips on how to style n arrange everything in a small single rented room with just a door n a ventilator above it.. Vl appreciate it 😊.. Stay Blessed Stay Happy Always 🧚‍♀️🦄🌈🧿😘🥰🤗

[@crispylittlekitty]

Love the video!! Where did you get that awesome sweater?!

[@bong9637]

Hey Reynard, Love your work. I'm quite newbie here. Can you make a video how to use the milannote including how you incorporate measurements, sample designs in living etc.. Thanks heaps.

[@HexlGaming]

This seems intuitive

[@southbeachmood5295]

COOL VIDEO ! If was wondering, if we feel we do not have enough natural light and we would like to paint some walls, what are your advice ? I fear painting the wall will decrease the light that we already miss. Thank you.

[@jones2277]

what do you recommend for when you have a fireplace or fireplace facade in your living room? how do you set up your TV?

[@dykoubiz]

Great tips man. Would you happen to know how to introduce multiple wood tones?

[@sherim8155]

And I love your designs! Wish I lived in Australia lol

[@michaelvidal6561]

I spot Nudie denim. You sir, have exquisite taste.

[@NguyetNguyen-np5cw]

Hi Reynard, i wonder if you’re able to give us some recommendations for our living room. We just got a giant Japanese art work and we put it above the fireplace. It’s very nice but has strong vibes of samurai. I have been looking for something that can tone it down (decorations next to that art work.) If you have ang recommendation, please let me know. I appreciate. Btw, I love all your videos. Your videos inspire us alot ❤

[@Bubuchicken]

Thank so much as always very helpful. Would it be possible to make a video about small studio with like folding bed and multifunctional furniture idea if you have time? Appreciated and thank you for your time :)

[@reynardlowell]

I have this planned for next week - design tips for small spaces! Not specifically studios but will cover a lot of similar topics/challenges of small spaces.

[@abunweldmicheal6920]

@@reynardlowell wonderful thank you so much looking forward to it :)

[@kristinef.petersen1728]

You're so handsome 🌼Laughing of hanging your tv or pictures too high, the tv is almost reach the roof. You did it with humour, withour trying it.

[@VikramSingh-hb8xg]

Please make a second video on indoor plant

[@topchic7475]

Good video thanks. Can you tell me what app you use for your mood boards please?

[@bartoszlenart7829]

which software/app do you use to gather ideas, collect pictures/products and organise them into visual representation of future project/room?

[@IsaacC20]

Suggested topic: where do you learn this stuff? What books? How did you practice employing these design principles (modeling software/rendering software? I assume you didn't learn what works and didn't by buying furniture and rearranging them -- to costly)?

[@DjBlaaack]

Can you maybe make a short on how to light a bedroom?

[@Suedetussy]

Ah, now i get it! I never liked showrooms, and now i understand: they lack personality. I‘ve always wondered why i like my own mismatched living room more than everything on display that is put together by professionals. 😅