Decorating & Design
Vote For House & Home’s Best Living Room Of 2020!
Updated on January 4, 2021
Whether you’re having a movie marathon on a rainy Sunday afternoon or cozying up by the fire during the colder months, there is something so comforting about lounging in the living room. This year, there is something for every style in our 2020 shortlist, whether you prefer a seating area adorned with modern art, swathed in vibrant color or filled with family-friendly furniture. Scroll down to vote for your favorite living room from the pages of H&H, and let us know in the comments below: which lounge would you never want to leave?
Voting is now closed. Thank you to all who participated!
January: A Curator’s Eclectic Living Room
In art curator Pamela Meredith’s sunken living room, a bold palette of black, red and white is softened with a playful Turkish rug underfoot. From the sculptural furniture to the artwork, there are so many conversation starters in this space.
February: A Cozy Century Living Room
Two cognac leather couches, an original wood-burning fireplace and layers of throw pillows and blankets make this living room feel like a warm hug. Don’t you want to kick up your feet and stay a while?
March: A New Traditional Living Room
“We created a livable home that would survive kids, a dog, hockey equipment and everyday life, while still feeling true to the history of the house,” says designer Arren Williams. This sentiment couldn’t be more true in the sophisticated living room, which got a facelift with a new chimney breast and jewel-toned accents.
April: A Scenic Bungalow Living Room
With views this breathtaking (think: lush trees and a ravine), there’s no need for drapery! This light-filled living room feels like you’re lounging in the middle of the forest, so relaxed, rustic furniture was a no-brainer for enjoying the space all year round.
May: A Gallery-Like Living Room
This modern lounge area is brought to life with an impressive collection of contemporary art. “There’s a curatorial story here,” says homeowner Alison Schwartz. “It isn’t just what fits where; it’s a dialogue in the same way a gallery would do a show.” Two curvaceous sofas are strategically placed to encourage intimate conversation.
June: A Fresh & Curated Living Room
“Including a mix of new and vintage pieces, patinated accents, different textures, and playing with simple and ornate forms add to a more collected look,” says designer Allison Willson of this reenergized home‘s living room. She added new panelling on the walls for architectural interest and an oil-rubbed bronze pendant for a touch of modernity.
July/August: A Relaxed Cottage Living Room
After a day of boating around Shanty Island on the St. Lawrence River, there’s no better place to cozy up by the fire than this laidback living room. The handsome hearth is made out of granite stones found on the island.
September: A Fashion-Forward Living Room
In this glamorous Toronto penthouse, designer Anne Hepfer made some bold moves in the living room with an eye-catching abstract painting and jewel-like accessories to match. Three different types of seating offers plenty of functionality and fashionable flair.
October: A Spare Yet Serene Living Room
Designer Shauna Walton made sure to include the essentials in her clients’ pared-back family room: a deep-seated sectional that feels like you’re sinking into a cloud, a seriously chic low-slug coffee table and a nubby throw for keeping toes warm during movie marathons.
November: A Family Farmhouse Living Room
Nothing could be too precious in this inviting seating area, since it’s located right off of the mudroom and the homeowners have three young children. Dark gray upholstery and soft edges on the furniture make the space even more kid-friendly.
December: A Festive Edwardian Living Room
“Remember in the 1980s and ’90s, when everyone had a formal living room but no one ever used it?” asks designer Alison Milne. “We were nervous to put this room in the house, but it turned out to provide the most joy.” She even kept the original fireplace and mantel to pay homage to the home‘s history.