The key to a well-designed living room lies in its seating. A space layered with seating types is perfect for all kinds of lounging, be it solo, curled up with a book or enjoying a movie with friends.
While living room seating varies from home to home, the essential foundations remain the same. A plush sofa, a comfortable armchair, and an ottoman to rest your feet are a trio that's unmatched when it comes to designing a living room.
While the layout of a lounge depends on the dimensions of your space, Ellen Pompeo's living room has proven to me that conversation seating is one of the best ways to make your lounge feel inviting and snug. Designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, it's been layered with an ultra-cool modular sofa, midcentury armchairs, and a fluffy ottoman, making it the perfect haven for all types of lounging.
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Featuring a rather enviable modular sofa and plenty of other stylish seating, Ellen's living room is a masterclass in elevated yet still homely design. While conversational seating isn't always possible in small living rooms, you'll be pleased to know you can pull inspiration from Ellen's effortlessly cool space with these six picks.
With a low-slung frame, the Zola armchair is a wonderfully cool choice that will bring a laid-back feel to any living room. Upholstered in soft boucle, it'll be hard to resist this plush seating.
Just like Ellen's coffee table, this abstract natural wood style couldn't be cooler. Organic in style, it'll bring some much-needed warmth to any living room, particularly when balanced with natural materials like linen or leather.
Made from sturdy yet smooth leather, this sleek pouf is the contemporary twist any living room will welcome. For some contrast, pair it with paler furnishings like Ellen's space.
You'll notice Ellen's living room features a green and purple striped rug, much like this abstract style from Wayfair. Woven with painterly stripes, it's a striking yet sophisticated choice that'll add some much-needed drama to your living space.
Ellen's bookshelves feature plenty of timeless decor, but her collection of gold vases instantly catches the eye. To recreate the look, add this charming glass vase on top of a stack of books or on either side of a mantel.
For a dose of luxury that doesn't break the bank, add this marble tray to your coffee table or bookshelves for a subtle high-end flourish that channels Ellen's iconic living space.
Ellen Pompeo's living room shelving might be well-designed, but it's her conversation seating that I can't take my eyes off. Featuring a one-of-a-kind modular leather sofa that zones the space, it's a lesson in keeping things simple but intentional.
Providing an ultra-cool contemporary twist, the leather sofa defines the seating area, setting the tone of the space. It radiates a relaxed feel, encouraging you to sit back and take it easy or chat with friends. Featuring clever side tables that slot in between the seating, it's a highly practical piece that fuses convenience with style.
To open up the room, the midcentury style armchairs have been placed opposite, filling dead space and creating an alternative seating option for guests. Aesthetically, they match the midcentury modern feel and provide some much-needed contrast against the heaviness of the black leather.
Ellen's conversation seating is simple yet effective. Featuring a hero sofa that zones the room, it proves the power of investing in one good piece of furniture that sets the tone of a space.
