Books > Domino: The Book of Decorating > 15 Tips for Decorating Your Living Room

Need-to-know facts the editors of domino magazine wish someone had given them. From Domino: The Book of Decorating: A Room-by-Room Guide to Creating a Home that Makes You Happy

Building a Living Room: Very Important Tips
COFFEE TABLES
Size The standard height is 17" to 19". Lower feels more modern. Length depends on the size of your space, but a good rule of thumb is to pick a table one-half to two-thirds the length of your sofa, so it's accessible from the entire sofa. Place the table about 18" away — within easy reach, yet leaving enough room for legs.

The Right Shape A square or rectangular design offers an orderly backdrop for decorative items, particularly books and trays. A shelf beneath can stash newspapers or remotes while keeping the top clean. Circular always looks neat because it's never crooked and is a good way to balance out hard-lined furniture. For a laid-back option, try an ottoman (a tray on top will make it functional), which can also double as seating.

Solid or Transparent A see-through table (glass or acrylic) can make a small room seem more spacious. A solid that matches the rug or floor tends to disappear.

RUGS
Dimensions Standard rugs measure 6' x 9', 8' x 10' and 9' x 12'. Whether you go the standard or custom route, get one that leaves 4" to 8" of bare floor on both sides, so it looks intentional, rather than like imprecise wall-to-wall. Rugs with borders tend to be more traditional and are a nice way to lend polish to a room.

Rule-Breakers Conventional wisdom says all four legs of the sofa should be on or off the rug, but if you're buying a standard-size rug and the math just doesn't work out, don't panic — having two legs on is also okay.

Color & Pattern A rug that brings in all the colors of the room can pull a space together; a patterned rug is often used to offset a scheme full of solids. But don't feel compelled to introduce a new pattern — sometimes a textured solid rug can add all the interest you need.

Layering Throwing a smaller rug over a larger one (particularly of sisal or sea grass) helps define an area, like the spot where the coffee table sits.

WINDOW TREATMENTS
Shades or Curtains Curtains add more drama and soften a stark space. Shades are tailored and neat, and especially good for smaller spaces. You can match the style and fabric of your curtains to your room to play up what's already there or use them as a counterpoint. Sheers bring a fancy room down a notch, while formal drapes dress up understated furniture.

Curtain Styles Lined curtains are weighty and rich and feel formal. Unlined are breezier.

Beyond Roller Blinds If you want some glamour without a lot of bulk, try a lush hybrid like a roman shade or a swankier London shade (has a swag of fabric at the bottom). If you stick with a basic roller, you can elevate it with a border or trim, like pom-poms or tassels.

Mounting An inside mount gives a crisp look and is especially nice with attractive woodwork. An outside mount for shades can make the window appear bigger. With curtains, hanging the rod higher and wider than the frame has the same effect.

LIGHTING
Lamps The easiest way to pull together a living room is to place a pair of matching lamps symmetrically on end tables or behind the sofa. For a looser but still unified feel, split a pair — one on an end table and one on a desk.

Hanging Fixtures A chandelier in the living room is a nice surprise, adding elegance and dimension. You need a minimum ceiling height of 9', and hanging the chandelier over the coffee table ensures people won't bump their heads.

Mixed Sources A combination of table and floor lamps allows you to distribute light more evenly around a room (a matched set plus one floor lamp is a good starting point). Ditch the overheads if you can — they cast a harsh light.

Where to Put Lights Make sure there are good lamps by reading chairs. Use smaller lamps to create a glow in unlikely places, such as on a mantel or a bookshelf.