A living room makeover is an opportunity to reimagine how you live, relax, and connect. Whether you're creating a calm retreat or a multifunctional space for the whole family, thoughtful planning is key to a successful transformation. 

To bring this guide to life, we’ve teamed up with Interior Designer and Stylist Lara Hutton, renowned for her minimal yet tactile design sensibility. Lara’s work blends timeless design with practicality, creating spaces that feel both elevated and lived in.  

As Lara explains it, “I would describe my personal style as modern and textual, and I would say often neutral.” Lara styled a contemporary space using the 1977 Sofa, a design she selected for its timeless shape and modular adaptability. “I chose the 1977 Sofa because it's my absolute favourite shape, and very nostalgic,” she shares.  

From defining your colour palette to selecting timeless, versatile furniture, discover inspiring room makeover styling ideas that will shape your living space beautifully and effortlessly.

A tonal flat lay of neutral textures, including the 1977 Sofa fabric in Tempest Natural.

Top considerations for planning your living room redesign

Before beginning a living room makeover, you should always start with a clear plan.  

“A successful space always begins with intention.” Lara explains. “When you take the time to plan your palette, layout and textures, the result feels effortless even if a lot of thought has gone into it.” 

To decorate a lounge room, there are a few key considerations to follow. 

• Measure your space: It might sound simple, but this foundational step is one even experienced designers never skip. Understanding the exact dimensions of your room is essential to get scale and proportion right—especially when introducing larger elements like rugs, sofas, or coffee tables.  
• Choose a colour palette: Define your style vision to maintain consistency. Choosing a few key colours to build the room around will help define the aesthetic. 
• Create a mood board: Visualising your ideas will help bring them to life. Try creating a Pinterest board and compiling inspirating spaces that resonate with you.
• Consider how the room will evolve with you: Choose adaptable pieces that will stand the test of time. Any new furniture or decor you bring into your home should suit your lifestyle today and be able to adapt to the future.
• Explore living room accessory ideas: Decor and accessories are the finishing touches that add personality and warmth. Think cushions, throws, artwork, and lighting to elevate the space and make it feel like home.
• Create a budget: It can be easy to get caught up with beautiful living room makeover ideas. Remember to define your budget at the beginning to determine what you’re comfortable with spending.

Explore simple living room makeover ideas

1. Consider the large pieces first

The foundation of any well-designed space starts with large, anchoring pieces. A statement rug, an elegant ottoman or a stylish armchair can set the tone and create a cohesive layout.

2. Choose high-quality furniture designed to last

Investing in well-crafted, durable pieces ensures that your furniture will stand the test of time. A timeless, high-quality sofa remains a constant, even as other elements in the room evolve. Look for sofas with a durable steel frame for longevity and high-density foams for lasting comfort. 

For Lara, the 1977 Sofa was the perfect choice for both its modular design and effortless style.  

"In this home, I used the 1977 Sofa in a few different variations because it’s so versatile. I love being able to experiment with different looks and moods depending on how people live, and the sofa allows me to create truly unique and adaptable arrangements." 

  Organic forms and warm timber tones in the Seymour Low Back Armchair (left), Issho Coffee Table and Antipodes Rug (right).

3. Opt for neutral furniture

Neutral tones provide a versatile canvas that adapts effortlessly to new trends and accent colours. A neutral sofa fabric allows you to makeover your space seasonally with different decor without committing to a major overhaul.

4. Invest in sofas and chairs with removable covers

Removable covers offer the flexibility to change the look of your furniture without replacing it. Whether switching fabrics for a fresh seasonal update or simply maintaining longevity, choosing furniture with removable covers makes a living room makeover easier.

5. Play with a cohesive colour palette

Selecting a well-balanced colour scheme ensures visual harmony in your living space. Choose hues that complement your sofa and tie together all elements in the room, from cushions to wall art. Keeping it simple with 3-4 colours can help you define the look of the space.

The Issho Coffee Table in Natural Oak and the 1977 Sofa in Tempest Natural anchor a serene living space.

6. Use textures to add depth  

Layering different materials, such as soft textiles, woven elements, and metallic accents, enhances the overall aesthetic. For Lara, mixing textures and opting for “Beautiful, structural, interesting and unusual shapes” creates an inviting and visually dynamic space.

7. Incorporate a perfectly sized rug

A well-proportioned rug can ground the room, define seating areas, and add warmth to the space. Ensure the rug size and rug placement complements your layout by extending beyond the sofa and seating area. If in doubt, always oversize your rug. 

“Think of your rug as a grounding piece,” Lara explains. “It should support the room’s energy, whether that’s relaxed, refined, or somewhere in between. I always recommend sizing up. A rug that extends beneath your furniture brings instant cohesion and comfort.”

The 1977 Sofa complemented by the Myco Side Table in Natural Oak with a Salt base.

8. Introduce multi-functional pieces

Pieces like ottomans, nesting tables, and modular shelving provide both style and versatility. Multifunctional furniture maximises your space while keeping the design flexible and practical.

9. Refresh your furniture

A simple DIY update, such as repainting a wooden console or replacing hardware on cabinets, can give existing furniture a fresh new look. Small refinements can make a significant impact on the overall space.

10. Experiment with wall art

Statement artwork, a gallery wall, or framed prints can dramatically shift the focal point of your living room. Changing wall decor is one of the easiest ways to redefine your space without replacing major furniture pieces.

“Art brings depth and meaning to a space.” Lara shares. “Whether it’s a bold statement piece or a personal photograph, it should reflect who you are and be updated accordingly.” 

11. Update lighting elements

The right lighting enhances the ambiance and functionality of a room. Swapping out pendant lights, adding a new floor lamp, or incorporating dimmable lighting can transform your space effortlessly.

12. Accentuate with greenery

Indoor plants bring life and vibrancy into your home. Whether adding a large potted plant or small succulents on side tables, greenery refreshes the space and improves air quality.

13. Rotate accessories seasonally

Changing cushions, throws, or decorative objects based on the season keeps your space feeling new and inspired. Swapping out decor items is an easy way to refresh your living room without a major commitment.

Lara Hutton’s living space framed by the 1977 Sofa, styled with refined King Living designs.

14. Create the perfect layout

A thoughtful layout balances functionality and aesthetics by ensuring each piece serves a purpose. Conversation-friendly setups place seating around a central coffee table, while open layouts maximise space and natural light. Modular and multifunctional furniture allows for flexibility, making it easy to adapt your space as needed.

“There’s a quiet confidence that comes with a well-resolved space,” Lara shares. “Where everything has purpose, and nothing feels forced. Layout is a big part of that.”

Refresh your living room furniture today

Wondering how to start your living room makeover or where to find living room accessory ideas? Begin by identifying what works in your space and what needs improvement. A mood board helps visualise your ideal aesthetic, and choosing a functional layout ensures the best use of space. 

If you're searching for more ways to decorate a lounge room without a full renovation, consider new textures, layering lighting, or updating your colour palette. These simple changes, paired with thoughtful interior decorating tips for living room layouts, can bring new life into your space. 

Ready to get started? Visit your nearest King Living Showroom for inspiration or discover more articles. 

• How to choose a sofa that is perfect for your space
• Rug placement guide
• Explore King Living tailor-made removable covers