Tackling an expansive living space and turning it into a cohesive cove of comfort can be overwhelming because of the endless possibilities. Filling a big room with big furniture is not necessarily the best way forward, and merely attempting to fill up space could make large living areas feel too bogged down. When plotting out the first principles that you plan to use, assessing the room size and ceiling height will help you determine the room's true scale. Creating a list of the room's features that can be highlighted, such as windows, doors, corners, and other nooks and crannies that make the area special, will allow you to add unique touches that will make your living room shine. 

 Achieving Balance is Essential 

Balance is the goal and mindset that should be kept when selecting furniture for your living space. Balance refers not only to size but also upholstery, color, height, and placing. If you plan on having social gatherings, dividing the area into separate social spaces will prevent your guests from having to yell across the room. Adding smaller, privatized areas for you to enjoy the space on your own or with a small group is also a nice touch and gives the room a semi-private space for more intimate gatherings. 

Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber's living room featured in Architectural Digest shows a large yet separated space that is fluid but also has its own unique elements. Large neutral carpets cover both areas, and the red and earth-toned colors mesh fluidly between the rug and two large red sofas that face away from each other to part the room. Each sub-space is mixed and matched perfectly, and has its own ottoman, side table, and side chair design.

Selecting a Dynamic Color Palette

Color within room design is a powerful tool that can be used to tell the personal story of who you are, build a comfortable ambiance, and create the feel you are looking for. There are many paths to take, depending on your style preference. One could follow in Fashion Designer Calvin Klein's steps and have a modern set of identical white furniture pieces and natural wood. Using all white is a look that will never go out of style. It also brings attention to the architecture of the room and maximizes natural lighting. 

Incorporating patterned rugs and brighter pops of color to create a more modern-vintage look like celebrity Emily Rossum's living space is one of many other options. A good rule to follow is to use more neutral tones for larger furniture arrangements, then incorporate bright and bold colors or patterns into accent pieces, such as rugs, lamps, throw pillows, vases, or side chairs. 

One of the most important canvases in big spaces that can be used to maximize color are your walls. Top living room colors that could be considered are green, grey, blue, beige, and (believe it or not) black. Of course, shade is everything when it comes to deciding which color works best for you, and weaving together more than one color via an accent wall will also help to break up the space.

If you have a room that is flooded with natural light, play it up as much as possible by experimenting with colors. A darker color such as navy or deep purple will help make the space feel cozy and comfortable, but bolder colors will work perfectly if you plan to do a lot of entertaining and want the room to pop.  

Conclusion

Whichever way your design journey takes you, finding a focal piece that is the cornerstone of your living room will wow guests and bring delight to anyone that enters. Some of the best focal pieces to include in a room involve natural elements such as tall plants or a waterscape. Jennifer Aniston's living room in her LA home plays up an outdoor koi pond that is set against a glass wall in her living room. A low, neutral-colored couch fits perfectly at the waterline and compliments the outdoor landscape that doubles as indoor art. Possibilities are endless when it comes to designing large spaces, and getting to know yourself through the exploration process is one of the most invaluable components of design that lasts for a lifetime. 

 **Written by Josh Whitaker at Happy Writers