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With back to school just around the corner and Fall beginning we thought we’d take a look at simple ways to bring a little bit of the outdoors in and create a bit of zen while we’re at it. While it’s true that the long summer days we’ve all been loving will soon be behind us, with these tips we hope that you won’t miss a minute!

Photo: Chameleon Design

1. Natural Textures

Incorporating plants, wood, leather, and other natural textures will lend a sense of craftsmanship and comfort, while making your home feel more cozy. Layering in these materials with your existing décor will add interest and give you an inviting feel just in time for the cooler Fall months.

Photo: Chameleon Design

2. Large Windows

Rooms that invite the outside light in are rooms people want to be in. Not only do they provide great views but natural light as well, which automatically draws the eye. The larger the window, the better: this makes the room feel like you are still able to enjoy the outdoors.

Photo: Chameleon Design

3. Open Concepts

The open floor plan has hit us by storm! This concept not only means shared windows and natural light, but it also creates a sense of togetherness. Larger windows and glass sliding doors extends the space even further, seamlessly transitioning to the outdoor space.

Photo: Chameleon Design

4. Go Simple and Neutral

While you might love some designs, they may not be practical for your family’s needs. Take into account who will be using the room, and what their needs are. Living rooms are less and less the formal, sitting rooms of the past and today people want to make them as functional as possible. One way to do that is plenty of comfortable seating to create a space for everyone who will be using the room. Designing with kids, and even pets, in mind can help you decide which fabrics are best for your design.

The living room is the center of the home, and one of the main places that guests see when they visit. We chose five rules that should always be followed when designing your perfect living room.

1. Choose a Color Palette

Selecting a color palette is a must when decorating any room in the house. It will naturally help to give you direction as you’re buying pieces for the room and work to keep things looking cohesive and well-styled. We suggest finding a textile or pattern that you enjoy and using that as your room inspiration. Remember to also accessorize with this in mind!

Photo: Chameleon Design

2. Size Your Rugs Correctly

Having an area rug can add the finishing touch to any room and anchor your design, but choosing the right size is very important. Having a rug that’s too small can make furniture look cramped, while also making the room look like it doesn’t flow properly. The trick is to choose a rug that fits beneath the front legs of all the pieces, which will make the room look well-balanced and cohesive.

Photo: Chameleon Design

3. Light It Up!

Incorporating numerous lighting sources in your living room will not only help with the look of your room but will also provide for a nicer atmosphere than you’d get with just overhead lighting only, for example. Overhead is great but table lamps, sconces and floor lamps will work wonders if you’re able to weave them into your floorplan.

Photo: Chameleon Design

4. Design with Everyone’s Needs in Mind

While you might love some designs, they may not be practical for your family’s needs. Take into account who will be using the room, and what their needs are. Living rooms are less and less the formal, sitting rooms of the past and today people want to make them as functional as possible. One way to do that is plenty of comfortable seating to create a space for everyone who will be using the room. Designing with kids, and even pets, in mind can help you decide which fabrics are best for your design.

Photo: Chameleon Design

5. Mix Multiple Textures

Using multiple textures in a room creates depth and layers to your design. Using pillows, throw blankets and different materials for your furniture can help to achieve this. We love to mix throw pillows, as long as they stay in the color palette!

Photo: Chameleon Design

As the weather warms up we all naturally begin to think about being outdoors. For some that may mean just a tiny patio or backyard space, yet with a few design tricks even the smallest of spaces can seem like an outdoor oasis. Bring on the warm weather!

Ambiance Lighting

Creating the right feel for your space is key to making it feel not only inviting but also bigger. Lighting is your friend here, as simple things like stringing lights above a seating area will lend a bright feel and open up the space.

Photo: Popsugar

Comfortable Seating

Everyone wants to be comfortable as they sip on a cocktail or enjoy time with friends outside. Having seating that is functional as well as comfortable is a key component of creating a great outdoor space.

Photo: Chameleon Design