How to Create a Living Room and Dining Room Combo
25 Open Plan Living & Dining Room Designs
How to Create a Living Room and Dining Room Combo
Homeowners often struggle with how to create a living room and dining room combo without feeling cramped or as though they have lost the feel of two distinct spaces. This article explains the different factors to consider when creating a functional living room and dining room combination.
Choose Furniture that Maximizes the Space
Furniture for the living room and dining room should be chosen wisely when designing a combined space. Look for pieces that are relatively small in size but can still comfortably seat the desired number of people. Sectional couches, loveseats, and armchairs can work well in a living and dining space combo. For a more traditional look, aim for furniture pieces that have the same finish, or even choose a whole furniture set that includes both a couch and chairs.
Utilize Rugs To Separate Living Room and Dining Room Areas
When trying to divide a living room and dining room combo, a rug can be used to separate the two areas. Choose an area rug for the living room that contrasts with the dining room’s area rug to help create a clear distinction between the two spaces. The dining room rug should sit underneath the dining table to complete the separate area.
Mix-and-Match Different Finishes and Textures
To make your living room and dining room combo appear more separate, mix and match different finishes and textures. For example, install hardwood flooring in the living room and opt for ceramic tiles in the dining room. Incorporate different wallpapers in both parts of the room. Use a bright and colorful wallpaper for the living room and a classic and understated paper for the dining room.
Hang Curtains
Curtains are a great way to establish the living room and dining room as two separate areas. Hanging curtains on the wall that separates the living area and the dining room will help to demarcate the areas. Consider using curtains made from a lightweight fabric, which will still provide privacy while allowing plenty of natural light to enter both the eating and living areas.
Add an Accent Wall
An accent wall is a great way to further define the boundaries between a living room and dining room combo. Create an accent wall in the living room by adding a bold color or wallpaper pattern to the wall. Similarly, in the dining area, add a different color palette or pattern to make it a stand-out area.
Divide the Room With Shelves
A great way to highlight distinct living and dining rooms is to use shelves to separate the two spaces. Place furniture in front of shelves to help hide the separation line. Shelves can also be filled with decorative items like books or plants, depending on your style.
Opt For Unusual Lighting Fixtures
Different lighting fixtures can be used to distinguish the living room and dining room areas. Hang a chandelier in the dining area and opt for a modern flush mount ceiling light for the living area. Add accent lamps to the living room for a cozy atmosphere and incorporate a floor lamp into the dining area.
Invest In Inspiring Artwork
Wall art can be used to create a visual separation between a living room and dining room combo. Hang a large painting on the wall that separates both the eating and the living area. Choose artwork that expresses the individual personalities of the people who use the combined space.
Try Color Blocking
Color blocking is an easy and cost-effective way to create a living room and dining room combo. Opt for comfortable chairs and sofas with similar colors but different textures. Choose the seat or cushions in contrasting hues. Incorporate small pops of color through artwork, rugs, and other accessories.
Layer Multiple Window Treatments
Layering multiple window treatments is a great way to add a homey touch and separate a living room and dining room combo. Hang sheer curtains in the living room and full blackout curtains in the dining area. Place a valance above the living room window to give it a grand appearance.
Install Contrasting Hardware
The doors between a living room and dining room can be enhanced with contrasting hardware. Install a knob and lock on the living room door and a handle and latch on the dining room door. This helps to outwardly identify the two areas of the combined space.
Use Large Area Rugs
Large area rugs are an ideal way to amplify the difference between a living room and dining room combo. For the living room, choose a large rug with bold colors or patterns for a statement look. For the dining room, choose a rug with a neutral tone to create a classic feel.
Include a Statement Piece
A statement piece, such as a large vase, artwork, or sculpture, can be used to draw attention to the living room and highlight the divide between the living room and dining room. Place the piece strategically along the line between the two spaces to improve the transition between the two rooms. Creating a living room and dining room combo doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these tips, you can create a unified yet distinct space. Make sure to choose furniture, decor, and other accessories that accentuate the separate areas. With a few simple steps, you can make a living room and dining room combo that is both functional and stylish.
Designing a Perfect Living Room and Dining Room Combination
Combining the living and dining room can provide an open, inviting feel to your house. This type of design is perfect for homes that lack the traditional dedicated spaces for each room. Before beginning on your design plan for this unique combination room, there are several things to consider: size of the space, how you plan to use the area, and decorating style that best fits your lifestyle.
Determining the Room Layout
To make the most out of the space, you will need to define zones, so the furniture layout of the living and dining area flow together and help create harmony. Start by deciding which area should be the living room and which area should be the dining room based on the size of the area and the activities that you plan to do. Think about the dominant furnishing that would fit the area best. For a living room, focus on sofas, accent chairs, media centers, and end tables; while in the dining room, consider a dining table and chairs along with a buffet or hutch. If the area is larger, you may consider a sectional sofa with a dining table. If it is a smaller space, you may opt instead for two loveseats facing each other, with a small dining table tucked into one corner.
Balance of Form and Function
Since you will be combining the living room and dining room, you may need to make adjustments when it comes to window treatments. The beauty of the two rooms will depend on the balance between form and function. Look for curtains, drapes, valances, and shades that will be able to move easily from one side of the room to the other. Since depending on the area you may have limited wall space, when selecting wall decorations consider pieces that can stand alone or be grouped together. The wall decorations should reflect your aesthetic while also drawing the eye upward, giving the illusion of a grand living and dining room combination.
Creating Connectivity
When it comes to creating a cohesive look, consider adding definition to the two areas by using pattern, color, and texture. Consider rugs on the floors. Choose a rug for the seating area that has a subtle pattern and colors that blend in with your overall color palette for the living room and dining area. In the dining zone, go with a solid color or a more decorative pattern that will allow for more contrast. Upholstery fabrics on sofas and chairs should vary in pattern, but stay within the same color family. And while the furniture itself should form the main focus, use decor pieces like accent pillows, throw blankets, plants, and artwork to bring further connective elements to the room.
Lighting the Room
Don’t forget to add proper lighting to your living and dining room combo. For the living room, use task lighting, such as a table or floor lamp for reading, and ambient lighting, such as recessed and cove lighting for a softer glow. For the dining room, focus on task lighting with pendant lights over the table and soft accent lighting like candles or sconces on the walls. To ensure the living and dining room are adequately lit, use a dimmer switch so you can adjust the amount of light depending on the activity and time of day.
Fixtures That Create Separation in Your Living Room and Dining Room
Although your living room and dining room are combined, it is always important to retain their own identity within the design. Room dividers, such as bookshelves, sliding barn doors, an entertainment center, or a large armoire have the ability to divide the area without taking up too much space. If you want to keep the separation even more subtle, consider using screens or upright furniture positioned in an L-shape to divide the area. Wall coverings, such as wallpaper and paint, can also help create the distinction between the two rooms. By designing a living room and dining room combo with thoughtfully placed furniture pieces, decor accents, and fixtures, you will create an inviting space perfect for entertaining friends and family.
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Creating Your Ideal Living Room and Dining Room Combo
When it comes to creating the ideal living space, one of the most common design challenges is combining a living room and dining room into a single room. This all-in-one combination ensures maximum privacy, convenience, and functionality in your home. Here, we’ll break down how to best combine these rooms into one cohesive space that you’ll be proud to spend time in.
Design Elements for Your Living Room and Dining Room Combination
Your first step in combining these two similar yet distinct spaces should be to choose a palette of colors and styles that will help tie the two elements together. Think dark wood accents, modern furniture, and bright, inviting colors or patterns in accent pieces. As you choose textiles and accessories, pay attention to how each item contributes to the overall color story and look. When it comes to furniture, opt for items with clean lines and multipurpose capabilities. Consider a sofa that doubles as a daybed or a futon for added seating during dinner parties. You can also invest in a few chic benches to act as both extra seating and flexible storage spaces.
Oriental Rugs and Wall Art
Picking the right rug is essential for any living and dining space. From floral patterns and geometric motifs to tiled options and vintage styles, your rug will help define the atmosphere of your room. If you’re balancing a pair of pieces of furniture, such as a sectional and a dining table, a smaller rug will do the trick. Or, if you feel up to making an investment, invest in an area rug that will tie the two rooms together seamlessly. Don’t forget to add some stylish wall art to make this room feel truly yours. Canvas prints, framed photos, mirrors, and murals are all great choices for turning this multipurpose space into a place that radiates a sense of warmth and sophistication.
Lighting and Decorations for a Quality Combination
In any living/dining room combination, lighting is key. Choose statement pieces that not only provide ample light but also add personality to the room. Statement wall sconces, candelabras, and candles are perfect for adding pizzazz to this combination. Turn to floor lamps and task lamps as well to ensure equal lighting throughout the room. Finally, don’t forget to decorate the room with personal touches, like custom pillows and plants. Even a few carefully chosen decorative items can bring this combination room together.
Making the Most Out of Your Living Room and Dining Room Combination
Think of ways you can be flexible with your furnishings. Some pieces, such as sideboards and buffets, can even work as additional counter-space during busy times when you need to prepare meals in a pinch. By playing around with furniture placement and decoration in the space, you’ll find different ways to maximize your room for any occasion, whatever it may be.
Helpful Tips and Tricks for Creating Your Living Room and Dining Room Combo
Make sure to measure your space before you purchase any furniture or decorations. This will help you better gauge what items will fit in your room and better plan for where everything should go. Think two steps ahead when designing for this room. Try to strike a balance between planning for traditional gatherings that require formal arrangements and more intimate occasions that demand a cozy atmosphere. Take the time to think about how each piece will look and function in this space. A bulky sofa placed in the wrong spot can limit the room’s usability and functionality.
Completing Your Living Room and Dining Room Combination
By investing some time in planning and selecting the right pieces for your living and dining area combo, you'll be able to create a space that is both stylish and comfortable. Whether you’re hosting dinner parties or relaxing after a long day, you'll have a room you can be proud of.
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