RIGHT UP SUZIE’S STREET
Design Seeker, Suzie McAdam, on creating a welcoming space by using cosy furnishings
The living room can be a tricky space to design, especially with the rise in popularity of the open-plan concept. What was once a simple formula involving a sofa, occasional chairs and a coffee table now offers so many different options.
Suzie McAdam, interior designer and founder of The Design Seeker, has a few tips for perfecting your own living room design.
Focus on comfortable seating areas:
‘I am often asked ways to create a sense of cosiness in light-reflective, large rooms,’ McAdam explains. ‘The key is to create an area where people can sit comfortably together, with two to three “cosy” large focal points such as rugs and lighting.’ She suggests Lshaped sofas and upholstered chairs as the best options to create a genuinely comfortable area to relax in.
Warm up the space:
‘Think about how much of the walls and floors in the room are exposed, as big swathes of “uncovered” space will create a cold atmosphere,’ says McAdam. ‘Darker walls are a very easy way to warm up a room immediately and explore lovely shades of claret and teal. There are also a lot of textural wallpapers that aren’t necessarily patterned, which add a layered appeal.’
Invite people in with framed art:
McAdam suggests a simple gallery wall to add texture to a living space: ‘Another way to add character and an inviting quality to your walls is simply dressing a section of a wall with framed pictures, which invites people to look closer. You could frame pictures of your family or buy vintage, traditional gold frames as this metal has a warming, luxe appeal.’