Best-Laid Plans

PUT A LITTLE LOVE INTO YOUR LIVING AREA WITH OUR DESIGNERS' GUIDE TO THE LAYOUTS AND STYLING SECRETS FOR THE ULTIMATE GATHERING PLACE

Whether you are unwinding over a mug of W tea, snuggling up for family movie night or clinking glasses with guests. your living area is the meeting point for connection and calm in your home.

However, if you've made the fit-out of the space an afterthought, chances are this all-important zone isn't living up to its full potential. "It's important to have an understanding of the way you use your living space, as its tone and atmosphere will differ depending on your lifestyle and needs, says interior designer Lydia Maskiell, founder of Lydia Maskiell Interiors. Read on for our expert guide to laying out the loveliest living area for your needs, from chill zone to cocktails HQ and every channel flick in between.

THE OPEN-PLAN HUB

Grand plan

An open-plan living area need not be sparse and overwhelming. 'Create divisions with vertical storage treatments, such as an open-shelf credenza,' says interior designer Jodi York, director of Studio York Architects. The open design creates a wall to section off the space and transparent shelves let natural light flow. Use a large rug to zone areas and achieve intimacy with cosy underfooting. 'Place at least the front feet of furniture on the rug and create a focal point with an ottoman,' says interior designer Tahn Scoon, founder of Tahn Interiors.

Mood lightning

When lighting a large area, it's easy to fall into the trap of a broad-spectrum bulb to illuminate it all. Instead, use a series of light fixtures. "A bold pendant light over the dining zone will anchor the space and draw the eye up, says Jodi. 'Floor lamps also pair well with an occasional chair for a reading nook. If the ceiling height is limited, use downlights. 'Downlights on dimmers present the chance to adjust lighting levels depending how you use the space, says Lydia.

Future-proof