Regency Style Living Room Ideas

The Walls

• Start your Regency-style living room makeover with the walls, as they act as the backdrop of the room. For this style, paint the walls a neutral color, such as white, to create a blank canvas against which the lavish elements of the room will be seen. If you want to add a punch of color to the walls, create a focal wall by painting one wall a bold color or cover it with paper that features a bold print.

Flooring

• The floors should also be adorned in a Regency style. Popular floor coverings in this style include solid shag, animal prints or other over-the-top prints, such as busy geometric patterns. Select a color or a print that suits your personal preference. For example, you can lay a zebra print or a red shag area rug on the floor. In addition to adding warmth and visual interest to the floors, an area rug also serves as a base for the furniture.

Furnishings

• Since Regency style is all about ornate and flashy elements, choose showy furniture pieces for your living room. Opt for sofas, settees and chaise lounges that are covered with velvet, satin or silk. Pieces that feature piping, decorative fringe and tufted backs are ideal choices. Lacquered and mirrored pieces also fit the style. Opt for a black lacquered wall cabinet and a coffee table with a mirrored top, for example.

Accessories

• The accessories are a major component of this style and complete the look of the space. Use showy lighting fixtures, such as crystal chandeliers and wall sconces, to illuminate the room. Set out cut crystal bowls and candlesticks on tabletops and shelves. Arrange colorful pillows with decorative designs or appliqués on the backs of sofas and chairs. On the walls, hang colorful contemporary images. You can even pay homage to Hollywood and place black-and-white photos of 1930s movie stars in decorative frames and feature them in the space.