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Install Floor-to-Ceiling Shelving
A wall of bookshelves creates instant drama, and it’s the perfect place to display cherished items. Here, Regan Baker showcases books, art and dishes.
Bring in Warm Whites
White interiors are timeless, but there are so many shades to consider. Here, designer Jessica Nelson leans toward warm and creamy tones for a more inviting space.
Paint the Walls Mustard Yellow
Here, Studio Indigo doesn’t shy away from color. The walls are painted mustard yellow in a glossy finish for another level of charm.
Buy a Coffee Table With Storage
This large, square coffee table offers a ton of storage, including built-in cubbies — which designer Caitlin Kah uses to display maritime books to maintain the nautical design.
Blend Indoor and Outdoor Living
Add Wood Slat to the Fireplace
Cover a dated brick fireplace with slatted wood to give it a modern upgrade. Here, The Residency Bureau also builds adjacent bookshelves with the same wood.
Paint Walls and Moldings a Deep Hue
We love a moody wall color, but take it up a notch by painting moldings and trim in the same shade. Designer Keyanna Bowen goes for a striking navy blue.
Pair Crisp Whites With Wood Accents
Warm woods and fresh whites make a cozy, refined combination. In this dreamy interior, designer Cortney Bishop adds wood elements (namely, the coffee table) that complement the wood ceiling.
Add Leather Loungers
Create extra seating with a pair of mid-century leather lounge chairs, just as designer Jessie Tobias does here.
Opt for a Hot Pink Sofa
You can’t go wrong with a neutral sofa, but this hot pink style is a maximalist’s dream. The tufted sofa makes a statement along with the black glossy walls adorned with books.
Build in Stylish Storage
Instead of a bulky TV stand, this modern interior has built-in cabinets along the entire wall. Designer Lindye Galloway paints them green, turning the storage space into a stylish accent.
Design a Vintage-Inspired Gallery Wall
A living room is the perfect place to show off vintage finds and unique family heirlooms that have been collected over time. Make your arrangement of paintings and curios stand out even more by going for a dark-colored backdrop. Designer Alexandra Kaehler chose a deep green shade for this basement clubhouse.
Decorate With Pink Accent Chairs
Add a feminine touch to your living room with a subtle pop of pink, possibly in the form of two swivel armchairs. For this modern space, Burnham Design adds art with pink details over the mantel to tie the space together.
Use Plates As Wall Decor
Take a cue from designer Shani Core and turn ceramic plates into standout artwork. Arrange them intentionally, maybe using a mirror or larger piece of art for the center.
Lean into Moody Wallpaper
Don’t Forget the Fifth Wall
This New York City apartment, crafted by Kati Curtis Design, features a tray ceiling that beautifully accentuates the Sputnik globe chandelier and adds depth to the layout. What’s more, the mix of light and dark hues create a striking 3D effect.
Blend Modern With Vintage
Find Cool Colors
With a soft blue sectional and sage green walls, designer Michelle Woolley of One Coast Design plays with cool shades to give this living room charm.
Make the Mantel Stand Out
Give your fireplace a facelift with tile, whether you go for something simple or geometric. Here, Judith Balis of Bungalow goes for a bold, black and white pattern.
Invest in a Sectional
Home Design Director
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.”
Associate Lifestyle Editor
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
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