Category: FAQ

“Can I create a minimalist living room that's 
still warm and inviting?"
 

Abi Hugo

Neutrals Stylist
Title

Question

How can I decorate my small living room in a minimalist style 

but still make it a warm and inviting place to relax?

Answer

Minimalism can be the ideal style for a smaller living room, as you avoid overwhelming the space with too much colour or pattern, and take away the clutter, which can feel stressful. However, the pared back and neutral look, doesn’t have to be boring. Use these tips to choose light and texture to make it cosy and serene. 

Bring in natural tones and textures

Going for soft whites and beiges, even a grey that has a warmer undertone is the key to keeping it cosy, rather than going for a cool undertone. Think toasted tones like Granola, Salt of the Earth and Crème de la Crème. Avoid stark whites, which will take away from the cosy and calming environment. 


When thinking about furniture, consider adding pieces in beautiful antique pine, to bring texture to the room. Steer clear of pine with an orange varnish on it, and stick with natural pine, which has a clear wax on it, letting the natural patina show through. 
 

Alternatively, you could try a dark, rich wood, something like a cherry wood, to help keep things clean and elegant, but also add depth. It could be a chest of drawers or a coffee table, an accent chair, or even the base of a lamp. These touches add layers and cosiness, without overwhelming the space.

Try using: 

Salt of the Earth - Earthy Taupe Chalk Wall Paint

Crème de le Crème - Cream Matte Chalk Wall Paint

Clear Wax - Protective & Decorative Furniture Wax

Light, light and more light

In a small living room, let light do the work wherever possible. I like to make the most of natural light by keeping window treatments to a minimum. I always go for sheer voile that lets the light come through but gives a level of privacy. If you want full privacy, pair the voile with a roller blind for the evenings, or beautiful shutters. 

 

Another fantastic way of adding light is having strategically placed mirrors. Try putting a mirror where the sun rises or sun sets. I really feel beautiful mirrors can bring depth to any room, as the way the light bounces around, can really add a special and magical feeling to a room, but still keep it airy.

Natural texture equals instant warmth

Natural textures are the real secret to warmth. As well as natural wood, think about fabrics, like linen, wool, fur, rattan, anything that adds depth and interest without cluttering the space. Think about a chunky, knit wool throw, a heavy jute rug or a textured rug. 

 

Add smaller items, like patterned, textured cushions, in neutral shades to add points of interest, but also make it feel calmer. By using soft furnishings to bounce your eye around the room, it will make the space feel warmer and cosier.
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Supporting Samaritans

We are so proud of our affiliation with Samaritans. Interior decorating, painting, crafting and upcycling have long provided significant mental health and wellbeing benefits, so this is a natural partnership which will benefit many. 10% of sales of the colours in the Frenchic for Samaritans collection will go towards funding the vital work of Samaritans.

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Supporting Samaritans

We are so proud of our affiliation with Samaritans. Interior decorating, painting, crafting and upcycling have long provided significant mental health and wellbeing benefits, so this is a natural partnership which will benefit many. 10% of sales of the colours in the Frenchic for Samaritans collection will go towards funding the vital work of Samaritans.

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