We're delighted to welcome Nicolle Pritchard, the founder of NAP Interiors, to the Charleston Luxury Group. Merging her profound expertise in interior design with real estate, Nicolle transforms spaces into captivating stories. With projects up and down the East Coast, she's a master at turning design dreams into reality. Today, she shares invaluable tips on crafting the perfect living room. Dive in for a blend of aesthetics and functionality!
Hi, I'm Nicolle, and I am the founder of NAP Interiors.
NAP Interiors is an interior design firm specializing in private residential and small business/commercial design. We are a team of 4 currently working on projects in Charleston, New York, and Palm Beach.
NAP Interiors prides itself in being full service and putting the client’s needs first. We are known for listening, surprising, and delighting our clients, and can do so with budgets in mind. We build trust and am not afraid to encourage my clients to think outside the box.
NAP Interiors tips to creating the living room of your dreams:
Designing and decorating your living room is a thrilling yet demanding task, requiring a delicate balance of functionality and aesthetics for you, your family, and guests. It involves exploring decor options, testing furniture for comfort, and embracing personal tastes and experiences.
STEP 1: Determine the Purpose:
The initial step in the process of designing your living room is to define its purpose. Will it serve as a formal living room, intended for hosting guests and special events? Alternatively, is it destined to become a relaxed, casual family room primarily for lounging? Establishing a clear purpose for your living room right from the start will serve as a guiding principle for making important decor choices as you move forward.
STEP 2: Style and Inspiration:
Pinterest is a great source for living room inspiration. Create a dedicated board to refine your style and simplify your decorating process.
DÉCOR STYLE:
What decorating style are you most drawn to? Popular decorating styles include Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian, French Country, Farmhouse, and Modern Coastal.
COLOR SCHEME:
Your living room's color palette is influenced by decor style, but be open to colors you love. Choose hues that appeal to you, guiding your choices for a cohesive and pleasing space.
STEP 3: Measure Your Space:
Ensuring how your furniture will fit harmoniously in your living room is crucial for comfort and aesthetics. Take out your measuring tape and meticulously measure your living space to avoid any awkward or uncomfortable furniture placements. Consider room dimensions, doorways, windows, and distances to corners. These measurements are essential for selecting furniture that fits seamlessly and enhances your living room layout.
STEP 4: Create a Budget:
Creating a budget is vital for your design project. Identify priorities like furniture and decor, researching costs. Allocate funds for unexpected expenses, deliveries, and permits. A well-planned budget ensures financial discipline and an efficient design process.
STEP 5: Choose Furniture:
Once you have clarified the purpose, defined the style, measured your space, and established a budget for your living room, the exciting phase begins – selecting the furniture and decor. Armed with a clear vision and financial parameters, you can now explore a world of design possibilities.
START WITH THE SOFA:
Start your living room design with the sofa, the largest and most significant piece. Once chosen, select accent chairs and a coffee table that match the style. This sequential approach sets the tone, ensuring a cohesive and appealing design.
FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT:
Arrange your living room furniture with clear seating and table space in mind. If stuck, create a focal point like a window, mantel, or TV. Place furniture away from walls for openness. Opt for a symmetrical arrangement but prioritize movement flow. This approach enhances aesthetics and ensures comfort and functionality.
LIGHTING:
Choosing a light fixture for your living room can be challenging. Many prefer a central ceiling light, considering factors like ceiling height and personal preference for styles like flush mounts, chandeliers, or pendants. For pendant lights, ensure a minimum 7-foot clearance for walking areas and consider lower placement, around 5 feet above the ground, for a cozy atmosphere above specific areas like a coffee table. Balancing aesthetics and functionality is crucial in your light fixture choice.
PAINT:
A common mistake is selecting a living room paint color before choosing the furniture. Ideally, your paint choice should complement your decor scheme, not dictate it.
Light shades like off-white and pale blue create a cheerful ambiance, suitable for a relaxed family room. Darker colors make a bold statement, often seen in traditional living rooms. Ensure your paint aligns with your design vision, creating a harmonious and appealing space reflecting your style.
RUGS:
Area rugs on hardwood floors add warmth and style. Choose a rug large enough to fit under front sofa and chair feet, creating a cohesive look, but not extending to back feet. This balance defines areas and brings unity to your living space's design.
CURTAINS:
Adding curtains ensures privacy and enhances your living room decor. Choose fabric, color, and length carefully to match your style. Sheer curtains allow light, while heavier drapes offer privacy and insulation. Well-matched curtains transform your living room into a cozy retreat.
DÉCOR ACCENTS:
Decor accents, like coffee table books, trays, sculptures, or candles, infuse personality and charm into your living room. They reflect your tastes, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes your house feel like home. These thoughtfully chosen pieces can be conversation starters and focal points, adding uniqueness and creativity to your design.
In conclusion, the journey of designing your living room is a blend of personal tastes, functionality, and aesthetics. With the right approach, you can create a space that not only reflects your style but also serves its intended purpose seamlessly. If you're inspired by these tips and need a professional touch for your next design project, don't hesitate to reach out to NAP Interiors. Let's collaborate and turn your vision into a tangible reality. Remember, a well-designed space isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating an environment where memories are made.
Contact us today and let's embark on this design journey together!