MUST-HAVES
As the space in which you will relax and come together as a family, the minimum requirements of a living room are warmth and comfort. Plan for a snuggly sofa big enough for the whole crew – a modular, such as those from King Living, will offer flexibility – and consider putting in a fireplace, which will both warm the space and provide a visual focus other than the TV.
COMPROMISE
If the budget won’t stretch to a separate living area, consider ways to divide the room. “A tall open shelving unit provides storage and separates a large space,” says interior designer Luisa Volpato. Remove focus from the TV with a stylish feature wall. “They’re a great way to add another dimension to your space,” says Aimee, who’s planning a wall of white, narrow profile bricks by Austral Bricks in her own new build.
