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There are a few features that guests who set foot in your home's living room are bound to notice, designers say—and no, they're not all bad! In addition to seeking out comfort, people who come to visit your home are going to be drawn to the unique, our Southern experts explain. Below, keep reading to learn more about what exactly might be catching people's eyes, and why, when they stop by for book club.
The Seating Options
People who come over to gather in your living just want to be comfortable! "Guests are often looking over your living room and noticing the sofa and seating options," explains Shelby Van Daley, the founder of Daley Home in Austin, Texas. "They want to see how and where they will sit and how comfortable things seem." In addition to offering cushy seating aplenty, it's important that your sofa and chairs are in good condition, too, of course. As Van Daley adds, guests will clock worn or saggy cushions right away.
Unusual Items
People are instantly going to take note of anything out of the ordinary in your living room—these items are often referred to as conversation starters for a good reason! "People notice the unusual, and everyone loves a good story," says Donen Kemnitz of Favorite Design Co. in Boerne, Texas. In her own living room, the designer displays a collection of brass animals that she sourced on her travels in New York and always enjoys sharing their story with guests.
Artwork
Art can double as a conversation starter and is always something that visitors to your living room will take note of right away, explains Alexis Warren, the founder of Alexis Warren, Alexis Warren Designs in Charlotte, North Carolina. "Art is a connection piece for people," she says, noting that it's usually the first thing her own guests comment on when they come over. "Focus on adding original art to your space that tells a story and you feel personally connected to," the designer advises.
Lighting
The right lighting scheme will make your guests feel at home immediately. MK Boykin, the cofounder of Smith Interiors in Charlotte, is partial to living rooms with soft ambient lighting in particular. "It immediately sets a warm, welcoming tone," she says. "Lamps placed around a room don’t just light the space; they create an atmosphere that makes you want to sit down, relax, and stay awhile."
Mary Clair Cumbaa of Cumbaa Design Co. in the Mississippi Delta, expresses similar thoughts, noting that lighting will stand out to guests right away, for a number of different reasons. "Whether it’s the warmth of the bulbs, the style of the fixtures, or the natural light pouring through the windows, lighting has a powerful impact on how inviting and balanced a space feels," she explains.
Read the original article on Southern Living
