5 Stylish New Contemporary Living Rooms
Pros, including one found on Houzz, share the materials, finishes and furnishings they used to create modern spaces
There’s nothing wrong with feeling nostalgic. But sometimes you’ve got to appreciate what the present has to offer. When it comes to home design, using innovative materials and creative building practices can lead to stunning interiors. For an idea of what’s possible, check out the details in these five contemporary and modern living rooms.
2. Through a Glass Brightly
Designers: Philip Liang, Julia Arria, Toune Saengsoury, Dmitry Martynov of ODS Architecture
Location: Hillsborough, California
Size: 336 square feet (31 square meters); 17 feet, 1 inch by 19 feet, 8 inches
Homeowners’ request. “The indoor-outdoor connection was very important for their lifestyle,” architect Julia Arria says. “We helped accomplish this by incorporating the outdoor kitchen and living area to feel like an extension of the house with very large sliding doors into the living room. Throughout the day, the quality of natural light is prioritized so no lights need to be turned on. Having multiple points of view through different spaces connecting to the outdoor spaces and landscape features make the space feel more connected and expansive. The cozy large sofa and chair, selected by our in-house interior designer, was a priority since they have a large family to accommodate.”
Contemporary details. “Large windows, open floor plans and minimal window treatments allow for maximum natural light, reinforcing the open and airy feel of the space,” Arria says. “Having the high ceilings allowed us to use large decorative light fixtures that added a sculptural element that is bold but still light and airy. The use of natural elements and textures — wood accents and stone elements — add warmth and balance to the modern feel. Textured fabrics such as wool, linen or leather provide comfort while maintaining visual simplicity.”
Other special features. Radiant floor heating. Motorized recessed roller shades. Hidden ceiling speakers.
Designer tip. “Layer lighting — a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting — to create depth, mood and functionality,” Arria says. “Recessed ceiling lighting provides general illumination, a statement pendant light adds visual interest, and LED strip lighting under cabinets or shelves, or recessed in walls or ceilings, highlights architectural features. This approach makes the room feel warm and inviting while allowing you to control the atmosphere at different times of the day or activities.”
Pendant lights: Random II, Moooi
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Designers: Philip Liang, Julia Arria, Toune Saengsoury, Dmitry Martynov of ODS Architecture
Location: Hillsborough, California
Size: 336 square feet (31 square meters); 17 feet, 1 inch by 19 feet, 8 inches
Homeowners’ request. “The indoor-outdoor connection was very important for their lifestyle,” architect Julia Arria says. “We helped accomplish this by incorporating the outdoor kitchen and living area to feel like an extension of the house with very large sliding doors into the living room. Throughout the day, the quality of natural light is prioritized so no lights need to be turned on. Having multiple points of view through different spaces connecting to the outdoor spaces and landscape features make the space feel more connected and expansive. The cozy large sofa and chair, selected by our in-house interior designer, was a priority since they have a large family to accommodate.”
Contemporary details. “Large windows, open floor plans and minimal window treatments allow for maximum natural light, reinforcing the open and airy feel of the space,” Arria says. “Having the high ceilings allowed us to use large decorative light fixtures that added a sculptural element that is bold but still light and airy. The use of natural elements and textures — wood accents and stone elements — add warmth and balance to the modern feel. Textured fabrics such as wool, linen or leather provide comfort while maintaining visual simplicity.”
Other special features. Radiant floor heating. Motorized recessed roller shades. Hidden ceiling speakers.
Designer tip. “Layer lighting — a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting — to create depth, mood and functionality,” Arria says. “Recessed ceiling lighting provides general illumination, a statement pendant light adds visual interest, and LED strip lighting under cabinets or shelves, or recessed in walls or ceilings, highlights architectural features. This approach makes the room feel warm and inviting while allowing you to control the atmosphere at different times of the day or activities.”
Pendant lights: Random II, Moooi
Shop for sofas and sectionals
3. Midcentury Magnificence
Designer: Jeanne Moeschler Interior Design
Architect: Guy Ayers Architect
Location: Los Altos, California
Size: 417 square feet; (39 square meters) 18 feet, 8 inches by 22 feet, 4 inches
Homeowners’ request. This home was originally created by famed midcentury developer Joseph Eichler. “Previously a dark den in the central space of the home, the living room was uninviting even with multiple windows,” designer Jeanne Moeschler says. “The clients wanted a warm, inviting space that could house their growing family. They did not want the expected midcentury style — certainly nothing retro — but something that felt appropriate. They love Big Sur and wanted to incorporate that coastal, cabin feel. The overall space was not large. The tall fireplace, surrounding glass and overall ceiling pitch offer the illusion of a much more grandiose room.”
Contemporary details. “Black beams connect exterior windows and doors with interior architecture,” Moeschler says. “It’s like a Mondrian-inspired grid that frames the spaces. I added organic elements everywhere — various woods, stone-topped side tables, raw linen, handmade ceramics. I better connected the outdoors to the indoors to capitalize on the overall Eichler vision. I integrated light stone floors to brighten the space and to blend the lines of the floors and some light interior walls. The light floors let the ceiling paneling shine and draw the eye up. The sofas were intentionally kept light to bleed out onto the floors and not crowd the space.”
Moeschler uses Houzz Pro business software to manage projects.
Other special features. “The living room needed to function for entertaining and movie nights alike,” Moeschler says. “A large sectional sofa could have done the trick, allowing focus on both the fireplace and the TV, but it would have limited the flow of the room. Now, with two separate sofas, you can enter from four sides — there’s great circulation. Pulling directly from the scene outdoors, saturated greens and blues blur the indoors and landscape.”
Designer tip. “Repetition is your friend,” Moeschler says. “Use similar colors and materials on different surfaces to increase the visual size of a space. For instance, the stone floors and sofas are similar colors. The beams and window frames are the same color. The media console and the dining table are similarly stained to balance the room.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Initially I pushed really hard to have all interior paneling stained black,” Moeschler says. “We stained the living room as a test before moving into the other spaces. The client felt it was too harsh and modern. It meant a whole other series of sanding and staining. Not for the faint of heart. We did dozens and dozens of stains to get the colors right. Working with new wood and existing decades-old wood in various conditions was quite the challenge. We ultimately landed on the right shade for a cohesive look to lighten everything up and create a warm room.”
See why you should hire a professional who uses Houzz Pro software
Designer: Jeanne Moeschler Interior Design
Architect: Guy Ayers Architect
Location: Los Altos, California
Size: 417 square feet; (39 square meters) 18 feet, 8 inches by 22 feet, 4 inches
Homeowners’ request. This home was originally created by famed midcentury developer Joseph Eichler. “Previously a dark den in the central space of the home, the living room was uninviting even with multiple windows,” designer Jeanne Moeschler says. “The clients wanted a warm, inviting space that could house their growing family. They did not want the expected midcentury style — certainly nothing retro — but something that felt appropriate. They love Big Sur and wanted to incorporate that coastal, cabin feel. The overall space was not large. The tall fireplace, surrounding glass and overall ceiling pitch offer the illusion of a much more grandiose room.”
Contemporary details. “Black beams connect exterior windows and doors with interior architecture,” Moeschler says. “It’s like a Mondrian-inspired grid that frames the spaces. I added organic elements everywhere — various woods, stone-topped side tables, raw linen, handmade ceramics. I better connected the outdoors to the indoors to capitalize on the overall Eichler vision. I integrated light stone floors to brighten the space and to blend the lines of the floors and some light interior walls. The light floors let the ceiling paneling shine and draw the eye up. The sofas were intentionally kept light to bleed out onto the floors and not crowd the space.”
Moeschler uses Houzz Pro business software to manage projects.
Other special features. “The living room needed to function for entertaining and movie nights alike,” Moeschler says. “A large sectional sofa could have done the trick, allowing focus on both the fireplace and the TV, but it would have limited the flow of the room. Now, with two separate sofas, you can enter from four sides — there’s great circulation. Pulling directly from the scene outdoors, saturated greens and blues blur the indoors and landscape.”
Designer tip. “Repetition is your friend,” Moeschler says. “Use similar colors and materials on different surfaces to increase the visual size of a space. For instance, the stone floors and sofas are similar colors. The beams and window frames are the same color. The media console and the dining table are similarly stained to balance the room.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Initially I pushed really hard to have all interior paneling stained black,” Moeschler says. “We stained the living room as a test before moving into the other spaces. The client felt it was too harsh and modern. It meant a whole other series of sanding and staining. Not for the faint of heart. We did dozens and dozens of stains to get the colors right. Working with new wood and existing decades-old wood in various conditions was quite the challenge. We ultimately landed on the right shade for a cohesive look to lighten everything up and create a warm room.”
See why you should hire a professional who uses Houzz Pro software
4. Raw and Refined
Designer: Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors
Architect: West Architecture
Builder: Principle Builders Group
Location: Atlanta
Size: 500 square feet (46 square meters); 20 by 25 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowner envisioned a gracious living space designed to comfortably accommodate guests, with an emphasis on ample, inviting seating,” designer Whitney Ray says. “A strong connection to the outdoors was a top priority, achieved through the installation of expansive glass sliding doors that open seamlessly to the back terrace and pool. Our goal was to create a modern aesthetic thoughtfully balanced with warmth and comfort, ensuring the space felt both beautiful and livable for a busy family.”
Contemporary details. “The focal point is the double-sided fireplace clad in large-format concrete panels that introduce a raw, architectural texture while anchoring the space with visual weight,” Ray says. “Warmth is added through the natural wood ceiling, which brings a sense of coziness and contrast against the cooler tones of the concrete and steel-framed glass doors. The expansive sliding glass doors blur the line between indoors and out, enhancing the modern emphasis on openness and light. Upholstered seating in neutral tones provides a plush, inviting foundation, while deep navy accent chairs and pillows introduce a bold pop of color that energizes the space. Subtle metallic detailing, like the geometric screen on the left, adds a refined layer of pattern and polish.”
Other special features. “The laser-cut metal panels introduce an architectural element that subtly defines the boundary between the living room and the adjoining music room while still allowing light to pass through and maintain an open, airy feel,” Ray says.
Designer tip. “The custom bench positioned in front of the fireplace offers a cozy spot to enjoy the warmth of the fire, while cleverly concealing hidden storage for throws and everyday essentials,” Ray says.
10 Living Room Features Pros Always Recommend
Designer: Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors
Architect: West Architecture
Builder: Principle Builders Group
Location: Atlanta
Size: 500 square feet (46 square meters); 20 by 25 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowner envisioned a gracious living space designed to comfortably accommodate guests, with an emphasis on ample, inviting seating,” designer Whitney Ray says. “A strong connection to the outdoors was a top priority, achieved through the installation of expansive glass sliding doors that open seamlessly to the back terrace and pool. Our goal was to create a modern aesthetic thoughtfully balanced with warmth and comfort, ensuring the space felt both beautiful and livable for a busy family.”
Contemporary details. “The focal point is the double-sided fireplace clad in large-format concrete panels that introduce a raw, architectural texture while anchoring the space with visual weight,” Ray says. “Warmth is added through the natural wood ceiling, which brings a sense of coziness and contrast against the cooler tones of the concrete and steel-framed glass doors. The expansive sliding glass doors blur the line between indoors and out, enhancing the modern emphasis on openness and light. Upholstered seating in neutral tones provides a plush, inviting foundation, while deep navy accent chairs and pillows introduce a bold pop of color that energizes the space. Subtle metallic detailing, like the geometric screen on the left, adds a refined layer of pattern and polish.”
Other special features. “The laser-cut metal panels introduce an architectural element that subtly defines the boundary between the living room and the adjoining music room while still allowing light to pass through and maintain an open, airy feel,” Ray says.
Designer tip. “The custom bench positioned in front of the fireplace offers a cozy spot to enjoy the warmth of the fire, while cleverly concealing hidden storage for throws and everyday essentials,” Ray says.
10 Living Room Features Pros Always Recommend
5. Indoor-Outdoor Experience
Architect: Ken Toblesky of Toblesky Green Architects
Interior designer: Theresa Reed
Location: Reno, Nevada
Homeowners’ request. “The design objective was to create a forever home for the owners, one that blends with the natural environment of the upper elevations of the community, provides a family atmosphere that is welcoming to their adult children and offers a home that will allow for festive entertainment with their lifelong friends already living in the community,” architect Ken Toblesky says.
Contemporary details. “This indoor-outdoor entertainment wing consists of a great room that opens directly to a covered veranda through an expansive zero-corner glass bifold door system,” Toblesky says. “The space expands upward, showcasing large timber trusses and roof dormers that flood the space with natural light.”
Designer tip. “Remove barriers to the natural surroundings and preserve as many natural site features as possible,” Toblesky says.
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Architect: Ken Toblesky of Toblesky Green Architects
Interior designer: Theresa Reed
Location: Reno, Nevada
Homeowners’ request. “The design objective was to create a forever home for the owners, one that blends with the natural environment of the upper elevations of the community, provides a family atmosphere that is welcoming to their adult children and offers a home that will allow for festive entertainment with their lifelong friends already living in the community,” architect Ken Toblesky says.
Contemporary details. “This indoor-outdoor entertainment wing consists of a great room that opens directly to a covered veranda through an expansive zero-corner glass bifold door system,” Toblesky says. “The space expands upward, showcasing large timber trusses and roof dormers that flood the space with natural light.”
Designer tip. “Remove barriers to the natural surroundings and preserve as many natural site features as possible,” Toblesky says.
More on Houzz
Read more living room stories
Browse more living room photos
Find the right pro for your project
Shop for your living room
Designer: Alona Perov of Co Interiors
Contractor: Rafael Lopez of HomeBuild
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
Size: 206 square feet (19 square meters); 13 feet, 6 inches by 15 feet, 3 inches
Homeowners’ request. “This room is located in a grand basement and sits directly in front of the staircase, making it the first space seen upon entry,” says contractor Rafael Lopez, whose clients found him on Houzz. “The homeowner wanted it to make an immediate impression while still feeling inviting and livable. A striking fireplace design was key to achieving that balance: dramatic enough to impress yet warm and approachable for casual TV watching and relaxation.”
Contemporary details. “The fireplace became the focal point and set the tone for a modern-contemporary aesthetic,” designer Alona Perov says. “A slim, horizontal insert was chosen for a sleek, modern profile. The fireplace surround features a mix of materials for visual impact. Black soapstone with soft white veining and subtle gold flecks, left unsealed for a natural matte finish. A floating plaster hearth mimics the look of concrete. It hovers just off the floor, maintaining a clean line and serving as a practical ledge. Walnut veneer paneling frames the TV. The paneling features vertical and horizontal grooves for added detail and depth. Together, these elements offer a tailored, high-end look while remaining rooted in contemporary simplicity.”
Other special features. “The fireplace structure protrudes 4 inches off the wall and ceiling, subtly accented with multicolor LED backlighting for a dramatic effect,” Lopez says. “Frameless drywall pot lights were selected for the ceiling to maintain a minimalist, uninterrupted ceiling plane.”
Designer tip. “With 12-foot ceilings, the room risked feeling cavernous and disconnected,” Perov says. “To visually anchor the space and create a more inviting atmosphere, the ceiling was painted a warm gray tint (Penthouse by Benjamin Moore) instead of a stark white, creating a ‘visual sandwich’ effect that balances the floor and ceiling and pulls the eye inward.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Originally, the fireplace design featured a discreet top vent integrated within the millwork — a sleek, horizontal slot intended to maintain the clean profile,” Lopez says. “However, the installer refused to deviate from standard protocol and insisted on using a visible metal vent, despite no such restriction being mentioned in the product guide. Lesson learned. Always confirm that all contractors understand and agree with the design intent before installation begins. If someone isn’t comfortable executing the vision, it’s better to find an alternative early on because once you’re on-site and mid-installation, there’s little room for negotiation.”
Wall paint: Cloud Cover, Benjamin Moore
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