Studio Marcelo BritoContemporary Living Room

7. Mixed patterns, same color. Why stop with mixing stripes when you can mix in other patterns as well? When you keep the colors to a strict palette, the patterns will feel like an intentional mix. Try a wide stripe, narrow stripe, solid, and fun printed textile, like a batik or suzani, in a matching hue.Wild card: Mix patterns and hues. For the adventurous decorator, mixing colors and patterns is what can make a room sing. To give your room structure, try starting with a main color and a neutral, then layer in one or two accent colors with textiles.Decorating Secrets: How to Layer Patterns Right

When space is at a premium, rooms should serve double duty. And nothing wastes space more than a living room that's used only for company. So go ahead — put a TV in there. Here a prominent wall arrangement steals focus away from the TV, so it doesn't dominate the space.

Traditional and elegant furniture styles and layouts work best for the classic coastal look. Slipcovers are a great idea for sofas and chairs — white or cream always looks upscale, or you can mix it up with some stripes as well. Experiment with contrasting piping to match your wall color for a sophisticated look.

A thinly striped floor covering is an energetic choice in this den. The pattern of the stripes echoes the wall treatment, which looks like the exterior siding of a seaside cottage.

large frames with large borders