Maison Epperson: Formal Living Room Progress

I know what you’re thinking: what the hell is the difference between a formal living room and just a living room?

Before I answer that question, I have to say that we are lucky to have more rooms than we need in the new house. Yes, we hit the jackpot! They are decent-sized areas and we’re making every room functional. Having said that, it allows us to have both a family room (for recreation, as a lounge, library, media and game room) and a formal living area or sitting room (designed for reading, relaxing, entertaining and tête-à-têtes).

When someone mentions “formal living room,” the images that come to mind are stiff sofas, a crystal chandelier, chinoiserie divider screen and furniture sometimes covered in plastic (LOL). Personally, I like some formality in the living room but not uptight-looking.

I managed to clear up the clutter of boxes from our move. So far, this is how I’ve fixed our formal living room:

Some say that the formal living room is dead. Well, I’m reviving it! I love the idea of a refined but relaxed living area for the family. A place that encourages conversations and away from the TV.

What you see is just 40% of the total living area. I was given strict instructions by my whole family to leave the 60% space for skateboarding. OMG.

Like our dining room, we’re just using furniture we already have. We still have a lot space near the staircase so it would be nice to have some indoor plants, cocktail tables, lamps, another couch and chairs for extra seating. Although, I’m loving the sparse living room. I’m careful not to add too much stuff to keep the look light and refined.

As of now, the rest of the room is bare and my husband and son are both over the moon. There’s space to play and build a makeshift ramp for monster trucks. So much for the “formality.”

My family can have their skateboard space. I’m just grateful for the incredible daylight that lights up our entire home. By the way, I’m on the fence about having curtains but I also love the cozy effect it gives to the space. What do you think?

Decorating tip: We live in a culture of immediacy. We want things finished, perfect and now. But sometimes, the best things come when you wait. And the best homes are definitely ones where no one settles for less than what they want and each piece of furniture tells a story.

Sofa: Dexterton (reupholstered from black to teal and changed the stainless legs to brass)
Vintage club chairs: Housewarming gifts from my friend Maureen Disini-Teichert – woohoo!
Coffee table: Designed by Renato Vidal (a gift from the designer)
Poufs: Philux (custom made)
Rug: SM (bought on sale)
Ceramic horses: Rustan’s (bought on sale)